Students are bearing the brunt of the election code violations during the ongoing poll campaigns carried out mainly by mayoral and councillor candidates of different political parties. With the SSC and its equivalent examinations knocking at the door, election campaigning via loud speakers and cones is causing massive problems for the students, severely hampering the peaceful atmosphere usually needed for examinees. Reports have surfaced about the issue alleging that mainly top two parties, Awami League and BNP, are carrying out such disturbing campaigns. It has been learnt that this mostly done by the election workers of various mayoral and councilor candidates. It leaves no doubt in the mind that this is going against all election campaigning codes directed by the election commission.
The excessive use of loud speakers on rickshaws and flat bed trucks for campaigning has been quite chaotic and for the past fifteen days. A report published in this daily shows that rules are being flouted with many using high-powered speakers and neither the election commission nor law enforcers are taking any steps to prevent it.
The excessive use of loud speakers on rickshaws
and flat bed trucks for campaigning has
been quite chaotic and for the past fifteen days
It is quite disconcerting to find such irregularities being carried out by the candidates’ workers prior to them being elected to a position of power. So, it is natural for those who are conscious to wonder what will happen once they come into power.
Meanwhile, according to the electoral code of conduct, not more than one microphone can be used during campaigns. Not only the sound polluting devices are banned but the use of speakers has been limited from 2 pm to 8 pm. This code is being violated over and over again by the election workers.
One cannot help but wonder at these times facing these situations—if the candidates are not able to help the public by keeping peace during this important time of students’ lives then what will they do later? Does being a mayor or a councilor only mean being a public figure? These questions await answers.
The authorities concerned and the people who are supporting the electioneering should consider the sensitive time the SSC candidates are facing now and act responsibly as adults.