Violence still dominates polls

We are appalled by the level of violence and chaos associated with the local government polls on Thursday in various polling centres of the country. The pictures published in various papers, of men brandishing guns in Chittagong during clashes between supporters of two rival ward councillor candidates, leave little to the imagination regarding the toxic atmosphere created in the polling areas.

There are reports of violent clashes, capture of poll centres, and snatching of ballot papers in other polling centres across the country. In Tangail a Jubo Dal leader was killed during clashes between locals, police and political activists during the Union Parishad polls.

Why were these individuals allowed to brandish weapons to intimidate rival supporters and, no doubt, voters in general? Why couldn't law enforcers prevent such unwholesome incidents? This only indicates how little control law enforcers have when thugs affiliated with the political elite are given carte blanche to do whatever they like without facing any consequences.

Such incidents are hardly unprecedented but they do add to our anxiety and uncertainty regarding what lies ahead during our national elections. If this is the kind of violence, unruliness and blatant intimidation displayed in our local government elections, what can we expect during the parliamentary elections?

Strengthening local government is fundamental to development and democracy. If the elections to fill the necessary polls are not carried out in a free and fair manner, it is not possible to ensure that deserving candidates are chosen by the people. It also violates the ordinary voters' right to vote without any coercion or fear. It takes away the power from the people.

If this is a precursor to the scenario in the national elections, it will only serve to substantially diminish voter confidence. And that would spell disaster for our democracy and our future. 

We can only appeal to the government to rein in these unruly, violent elements, many of whom are affiliated with the ruling party, and ensure a level playing field in the national elections, one that is free from violence and intimidation.