Democracy and Bangladesh
Democracy is a continuous political process. To develop democracy it is needed to develop certain issues very carefully. Though Bangladesh has passed34 years of its independence, it has failed to establish democracy as an institution. Argument). Is it possible for us to achieve a peaceful, prosperous democracy? Or will internal and external pressures squeeze out any chance of a democracy? First we need to know about the basic concept of “democracy”. What is democracy? There are some basic pillar for democracy: Those are: 1- Freedom of speech—including a free press, which is necessary to ensure transparency, make leaders accountable and allow citizens to voice their concerns and frustrations; 2- Freedom of assembly, to create a venue for organization and dissent, and the formation of a loyal opposition that provides citizens with real choices; 3- A free economy, to create opportunity and free people from dependence on the state; 4- An independent judiciary, to guarantee the rule of law, equal justice and a check on the power of the executive; and 5- Freedom of worship, to ensure respect for the beliefs of others and a tolerant, compassionate society.
According to Bryce, “Democracy is that form of government in which the ruling power of a state is legally vested, not in any particular class or classes but in the members of the community as a whole”.
To make the democracy a success in any country, the following conditions should be fulfilled: (1) Sound System of Education (2) Enlightened Citizenship (3) Political Awakening. (4) Freedom.
This is a continual process. Its not possible to get democracy in one day. Both the people and the politicians need to be habituated with this process. If any power comes out and try to create a democratic society in one day..they are living in the world of fool. Just remember only civil society need to be habituated with the process: there is no role from the Armed forces. Does our current Armed Force backed (?) Govt ensuring any of the above condition? The answer is “No”. But still they are talking about “restring of Democracy.” Does any one have any idea HOW?
In my opinion Courses of Action to Restore Democracy are: 1. Lift the state of emergency and re-establish civil liberties.2. Military must return to their barracks 3. Expand transparency in electoral process. 4. Human rights abuses must stop and perpetrators held accountable.
Second Part- Coming Next
