Can't we set an example of good two-party system?

The meaning and sentiment of the expression "unity" is clear. What is being asked for is "unity" of purpose. In a democracy, the ruling party and the opposition need to work according to the traditional definition of a party in power and a viable opposition. The country would be seen to have a functional democracy with accountability, transparency, and good governance. Then the world would have confidence in the stability of our political system leading to economic benefits and success in securing increased investment.

Most people know the realities of politics in Bangladesh. In two successive parliaments, the opposition boycotted parliamentary proceedings! The leaders of the political parties do not speak to each other, not atleast in state functions and do not attend the same functions or meetings. The reality, lower down the rank, is not much better and the relationship between the rank and file members of the parties, positively sinister.

We may need the introduction of "bi-partisan" politics in Bangladesh. It means that, members of one political party could vote for a bill introduced by another party, if they feel that the bill would serve the interest of the constituency they represent.

When a bill is passed by bi-partisan unity, usually a small number of parliamentarians break rank with their own party stance, and vote to see the passage of a particular bill. The party temporarily loosing the support of this small number of M.P's does not take action against the partisan party men, knowing that the political careers of the party men where at stake. Re-election to a seat in the Senate, parliament or a legislature known by a different name, depends on a good track record of representing the issues of the constituency. Democratic party senators, from conservative Southern American states could be seen to abstain or vote for bills introduced by the Republican party, on such issues as tax cuts or abortion and fear no reprisals from their own party. Come re-election, these bi-partisan voters, could claim to have worked for their constituents by showing their voting record on conservative issues. The Republican party members could do the same, vote for a bill to increase the size of the police force, a declared aim of former President Clinton, a Democrat. Law and order is a strong issue for the conservative Republican Party.

The concept of bi-partisan politics is just one ideal and practice that shows the level of tolerance existing in other democracies. There is no need to import any foreign ideals. We need to learn the more tried and tested methods adopted in other countries: The election commission in India is independent, British parliament has a unique tradition of neutral speaker of parliament, and so on.

Bangladesh is blessed to have only two major political parties. This system is tailor made for ensuring political stability. Even developed countries like Italy and Spain are forever battling with political instability and coalition politics. Instead of confrontation, the two parties in Bangladesh should work together as two institutions of democracy. When such a thing happens, it would be a happy day for democracy in Bangladesh.

Ershad Khandker is a free-lance journalist.