Key highlights
- Focus on Bangladesh’s ongoing development towards a prosperous nation by 2041
- Manifesto aligns with the country’s growth; emphasizes fair elections and sovereignty
- Emphasizes prosperity, integrity, and sovereignty as key aspects
- BNP’s disarray under Tarique Zia’s leadership highlighted by departures
Mahbubul Alam Hanif, the Joint General Secretary of the Awami League, recently shed light on the party’s vision for the upcoming general elections. He emphasized Bangladesh’s sustained development trend, aligning with the goal of establishing a developed, prosperous, and self-respecting nation by 2041. This vision is set to form the cornerstone of the Awami League’s manifesto, reflecting the aspirations and commitments toward the country’s future progress.
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“Hanif condemned the subversive acts and vehicle arson conducted by BNP-Jamaat, alleging these actions were perpetrated under the guise of blockades and strikes. He criticized their political tactics, deeming them misguided, during a press briefing at his residence in Kushtia.”
Replying to a question from journalists, Hanif said, “We are optimistic that the Election Commission will conduct a transparent, fair, and credible election, and we anticipate the enthusiastic participation of the nation’s citizens in the upcoming January 7 election.”
Manifesto’s Focus on Development
Hanif expressed skepticism about the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) coming to power in the next two decades. He attributed this projection to what he labeled as the party’s “corrupt leadership.” Citing convictions of top BNP leaders for various serious offenses, including terrorism, money laundering, embezzlement, and corruption, Hanif indicated their disconnection from the public and alleged conspiracies to disrupt the forthcoming parliamentary election.
Addressing allegations of vote theft, Hanif emphasized the Awami League’s commitment to fair electoral practices. He attributed such malpractices to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, asserting that the Awami League has never engaged in such actions.
The Awami League’s manifesto for the upcoming general elections is set to echo Bangladesh’s developmental journey. Hanif reiterated the party’s dedication to advancing the country’s prosperity and self-respect, emphasizing these as pivotal components highlighted in their manifesto.
As Bangladesh gears up for the upcoming general elections, the Awami League’s manifesto signifies a roadmap for the nation’s future. Hanif’s statements outline the party’s vision, addressing concerns, and emphasizing the principles of development, integrity, and sovereignty as guiding forces in the country’s democratic process.
Aim is to Disrupt Election with String of Incidents
Despite the concerted efforts of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, their orchestrated attempts to disrupt the elections are unlikely to succeed. The post-October 28 violence has resulted in at least 11 fatalities, including a police constable and a journalist. BNP’s widespread arson has torched over 300 vehicles nationwide.
While the concept of hartal-blockades has been part of our political landscape, the enormous economic, social, and human toll of these movements raises doubts about their relevance, particularly as Bangladesh propels swiftly towards development. The citizens’ aversion to a return to the tragic period of 2013-14 is evident as they refuse to be held back by BNP’s disruptive activities. The normalcy of daily life, evident in people going about their routines and regular city traffic, signifies the failure of BNP’s movements yet again.
Despite the country’s anticipation for the upcoming Jatiya Sangsad election on January 7, BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami persist in conducting arson attacks on public transports and offices. A recent incident on November 30 saw alleged BNP-Jamaat members hurling cocktails at the Dhaka Division Commissioner and Returning Officer’s office in Segunbagicha, prompting an immediate police investigation. Eyewitnesses reported these incidents, with Border Guard Bangladesh officials evaluating the situation. People are eager for an election that allows Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to sustain her work for the country’s progress.
EC Fully Prepared for National Polls
Election Commissioner Rashida Sultana on Friday (November 24) said that the environment for holding the 12th parliamentary elections is fully prepared.
“I hope that the polling environment would not be disturbed in any way,” said the election commissioner. “We have no time to see who is enforcing blockade and hartal. The strikes or other political disturbances cannot disrupt the polling environment,” said EC Rashida. Two election commissioners and various EC officials indicated their preparations for the election, considering the possibility of BNP and several other parties boycotting the vote.
In preparation for the upcoming election, the EC has undertaken multiple measures, including the redrawing of 10 constituencies, the registration of two new political parties, updates to the voters’ list, and the creation of a preliminary list comprising 42,350 polling centers. Additionally, amendments to an electoral law have been enacted. The EC has endorsed 67 local observers for monitoring the polls and has opened applications for international observers and journalists.In conclusion, individuals reject politics characterized by vandalism, arson, and violence resulting in harm to others. To let Bangladesh shine, opposition political parties should stop these destructive movements immediately and return to the paths of democracy by
