Gano forum and Democracy Manch convened a discussion meeting to address the current situation|Photo: Collected
In the heart of a nation’s struggles lies the strength to rise above challenges. A powerful gathering of voices from Bangladesh’s political sphere on November 2, 2022, echoed the deep frustration and longing for democracy and fairness shared by many citizens.
The leaders of various political and civic groups called for sweeping reforms, urging the nation to confront the erosion of democratic values. This article captures their resolute stance against electoral manipulation, systemic corruption, and the decay of governance.
Through their words and actions, these leaders have ignited a collective hope: the possibility of restoring the people’s right to vote, building trust in governance, and creating a future where every citizen’s voice matters.
Let us explore their message and the movement taking shape.
The People’s Mandate: Denied and Defended
The current government has drawn sharp criticism for stifling the democratic process. Opposition leaders centrally assert that the regime has systematically stripped away citizens’ right to vote.
Jonaid Saki, Chief Coordinator of the Mass Solidarity Movement, emphasized that the regime’s entrenched partisanship has rendered fair elections impossible. Without a change in governance, he argued, the people’s mandate will remain suppressed.
Saki articulated the need for a unified front to achieve systemic change. This vision includes mobilizing citizens to create a robust movement that ensures voting rights are not just theoretical but actionable.
According to him, this is a fight not merely against a government but against an oppressive system, urging like-minded groups to stand united for a common goal.
A Crisis Beyond Governance: Looting and Mismanagement
The allegations against the current administration extend beyond electoral injustice.
Mahmudur Rahman Manna, President of Nagorika Oikya, accused the government of plundering national resources. He highlighted issues such as rampant money laundering, emptying reserves, and leaving citizens to bear the burden of economic instability.
Manna’s remarks depicted a nation on the verge of collapse due to unbridled corruption. His call to action was clear: unite against this financial exploitation and demand accountability.
He emphasized the pressing need to establish a democratic system that protects public resources, not plunders them.
Unity as a Catalyst for Change
Mustafa Mohsin Montu, President of the Gano Forum, reaffirmed his commitment to resisting elections conducted under the current government. Drawing on the lessons of the controversial 2018 election, Montu declared that participating in a flawed process would only perpetuate the injustices faced by citizens.
Instead, Montu urged the people to join forces, promising to lead efforts that foster unity and resistance.
He committed to addressing the chaos resulting from widespread corruption and mismanagement, with the aim of restoring trust in governance through collaborative efforts.
Building Alliances for a Shared Vision
The gathering brought together leaders from diverse political and civic groups, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for collaboration. Representatives from the Revolutionary Workers Party, the State Reform Movement, and other organizations underscored the importance of a united front.
Saiful Haque, General Secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party, and Hasnat Qayyum, Chief Coordinator of the State Reform Movement, joined their voices to the call for systemic reform.
They emphasized that achieving a fair and transparent governance system requires cooperation across ideological lines, with each group contributing to a shared vision of justice and democracy.
A Movement Rooted in Resilience
The leaders present at the meeting committed themselves to building a nationwide movement. From Nurul Haque of the People’s Rights Council to Shahid Uddin Mahmud of Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD), the consensus was clear: the people must rise together to demand their rights.
This collective effort is not just about opposing the current regime—it is about creating a new path forward.
Ensuring that every Bangladeshi can participate in free and fair elections and utilize the country’s wealth and resources for the people’s benefit is the main goal.
Verdict
The meeting at the Gano Forum office served as more than just a gathering; it served as a rallying cry for change. The leaders who spoke on that day reminded us of the power of unity, the importance of justice, and the resilience of the human spirit.
For Bangladesh to move forward, its citizens must stand together to reclaim their democracy.
Although the road ahead is difficult, history shows that the people’s will can overcome even the most entrenched injustices. It is time to rise, to demand accountability, and to restore the rights that form the foundation of a just and prosperous society.