This refers to the column ‘Post-Poll Bangladesh’ in Radiance (12-18 January). Supposedly, Bangladesh is the first nation which dared to hold general elections even as the opposition has not only boycotted the same but also did not field any candidate in any constituency. The ruling party had won even before the very first vote was cast. And because of the opposition call to boycott the elections, the turnout was reported to be around 20 per cent and that too as per the government records.
Absolutely, the 20 per cent has mandated Ms Hasina to rule once again but who will listen to those 80 per cent who refused to participate in election process on the call of opposition. It simply goes to suggest that 80 per cent of the country’s population follows the opposition party and democratically, though unofficially, the opposition got mandate to demand for a fresh election nullifying this one. And this fresh one should be as per demand of public.
Sohail Razi
Malda, WB