We hope the DMP’s lifting of its ban on rallies in the capital, to allow the AL to hold a rally at Suhrawardy Udyan on Monday will pave the way for the BNP to hold its own rally and call off its national blockade.
It is essential that rules are applied equally for all citizens and political parties.
In this context, it was completely unacceptable that some AL leaders at the party’s meeting on Saturday called for ward-level leaders of the party ‘’to take to the streets’’ in order ‘’to aid law enforcers.”
Pledging support for law enforcers in performance of their duties is one thing, which indeed the public may look for in politicians. However, seeking to aid or control their work by taking to the streets or joining in clearly crosses the line in a manner which should never be excused.
Independent law enforcement is a basic principle and requirement of democracy and rule of law. There can be never be any justification for interfering with the independence of law enforcers.
For such a call to be made when the AL is complaining about anarchy and subversive activities by blockade supporters is hypocritical, as it opens the door to vigilantism and lawlessness.
The government has a duty to uphold the constitution and ensure that nothing is done to compromise the independence of law enforcers.
It must not tolerate calls which risk undermining public confidence in the impartiality of the police and law enforcement agencies.
