Blatant threat to voters unacceptable

Defying all the rules and regulations, and the code of conduct defined by the Election Commission of the country, the president of Awami League's Haripur union unit in Kushtia Sadar upazila, Milon Mandal, has set an example of utmost intolerance to the participation of other political parties in the upcoming Haripur union parishad elections. He has threatened the local voters with dire consequences if they do not cast their votes for boat (Awami League's symbol), saying a list was being prepared so no one would be spared after the polls if they did not comply with his wish.

He categorically declared in a public meeting that people would have to cast their votes only in favour of the party-nominated candidate, and that any disrespect to the party would not be tolerated. Issuing threats that he would not allow the people voting for other candidates to enjoy the benefits of development in this union, he went so far as to say, "Don't go against the boat, no one can save you. No one can stand by when you will be in danger."

Democracy is one of the pillars of our constitution, and its very essence is acknowledging the people's right to vote for the candidate of their choice. It is alarming that we have reached such a state that an influential local leader of the ruling party feels confident enough to make a mockery of our constitutional right in a public meeting, using such direct language, without any fear of consequences.

When the Awami League talks about upholding democracy through making elections free and fair, such incidents from a local leader cast shadows of doubt on its intentions to truly institutionalise democracy. It is, therefore, of utmost importance that leaders like Milon be restrained before further damage is done to body politick. More importantly, action must be taken against him for his blatant disregard for the constitution and electoral codes of conduct.