Let the rule of law prevail in the polls

The most important phase of preparations for the 11th parliamentary election, scheduled to be held on 30 December, has been kicked off with the election commission finalising nominations, carrying out verifications, cancellations, appeals, and withdrawal of nomination papers. 

The candidates from different political parties will now officially being their campaigns, approach the voters, highlight their election commitments and ask for votes.
The voters will feel they too matter in the republic and their votes will determine the fate of political parties and their candidates.
The election commission’s role is more important than ever before. It must at first ensure that all candidates can freely campaign for the election.
The problem is that cases have been filed against many of the opposition BNP candidates and many are being added to the list of the accused.
Some of them are already arrested and in jail. Those still free are in fear of arrest.
It will be difficult for candidates to continue electioneering if such a situation prevails. And it will be impossible for them to campaign if they are forced to go into hiding. This destroys a level playing field.
This situation has to be changed to ensure fair and neutral elections.
For the sake of holding a fair and credible election, political opponents must not be harassed with fictitious cases. The EC has a crucial role to play in this regard.
The commission can investigate any allegation and protect the candidate in response to any complaint of police harassment or any false case.
Misusing the law to harass rival candidates and defeat them is in no way acceptable.
A peaceful atmosphere is must for holding a free and fair election. Special attention is needed to ensure peace and order.
There is no alternative to direct involvement of the law enforcement in the process. The law enforcement is run by the executive. This election, as an exception, is being held under a political government. We never experienced a fair and neutral election under a political government.
Therefore, the ruling Awami League government will have to provide fair treatment to all during the elections as expected from a non-partisan government.
It is the government’s constitutional and moral duty to help the election commission wholeheartedly to maintain law and order to ensure a favourable atmosphere for polls.
The law enforcing agencies have to be kept away from any political influences while performing their duties.
It is absolutely necessary to ensure quick and appropriate action for all types of crimes, including violation of the electoral code of conduct. It is not hard to deal with such situations if everyone is aware of the basic principles of the rule of law.
It is necessary to create a festive election environment by eliminating fear and uncertainty. The EC, government and all the political parties must cooperate sincerely to ensure fair polls.