Pitfalls of CTG
Many politicians try to prove that the Caretaker Government system is an innovative political idea. But to me, the system seems to be a great setback to democracy in our country. This concept has come from political faithlessness. The system was introduced in 1996 through the 13th Amendment to our Constitution by then BNP government to survive the wrath of the mass people. People desired to practice authentic democracy after the ouster of the despotic regime of President Ershad. But unfortunately BNP shattered the dreams of the people through Magura by-election. Then main opposition party the Awami League could not trust the BNP and to ensure a free, fair and acceptable national election the AL waged a movement for caretaker government system. Though at first the BNP shrugged off the demand, ultimately it had to capitulate to public upsurge in 1996. Within only ten years the caretaker government system has polarised our political groups, politicised administration and aggravated political mistrust and vendetta. This system has not smoothened the path of democracy; rather it has massacred our political culture. All the political parties want to come to power by hook or by crook. Political acrimony has criminalised our society. Muscle power and black money play a pivotal role in national election. To ensure free, fair and flawless election, the Election Commission should be rejuvenated and rectified massively. It should be separated from the PMO. Voter ID card with photo and electronic voting machine should be introduced to prevent vote rigging. For this we can seek help from our neighboring country India. Many donor agencies are ready to help us, if we need funds for this. Special electoral laws should be enacted to bar recently retired bureaucrats and business tycoons from contesting in the national election.
The main political parties should sit together to nullify the system and reform the Election Commission, if they want to perpetuate democracy in our country. I hope the politicians will ponder over this matter.
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