Dr. Matiur Rahman

One

The history of voting is a tale of gradual evolution, marked by a struggle for inclusion, representation, and equal rights. Rooted in ancient civilizations like Athens, where direct democracy emerged, the concept of voting has undergone various transformations over the centuries.

In ancient Greece, particularly in Athens, citizens participated directly in decision-making through assemblies where they could vote on laws and policies. However, this form of democracy was limited to a selected group of free, male citizens, excluding women, slaves, and foreigners.

The idea of voting largely faded during the Middle Ages in Europe. Yet, in some pockets like medieval Iceland and certain Swiss cantons, early forms of democratic decision-making involving assemblies persisted.

The Magna Carta in 1215 in England began laying the groundwork for limiting the powers of the monarch and introducing the idea of representation, although it was confined to nobility and didn’t include broader suffrage.

Significant strides in modern voting rights emerged during the Age of Enlightenment, with philosophers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau advocating for social contracts and the consent of the governed. The American and French Revolutions further catalyzed discussions on universal rights, although suffrage remained limited to a minority in these nascent democracies.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, we have witnessed pivotal changes in the voting landscape. Suffrage movements gained momentum worldwide, with women's rights activists like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton pushing for women's voting rights in the United States. The extension of suffrage to women and minorities was achieved through hard-fought battles, such as the Civil Rights Movement in the United States led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr., resulting in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting.

Recently, there has been a continued push for more inclusive voting rights, focusing on issues like voter suppression, gerrymandering, and ensuring access to voting for all eligible citizens. The evolution of voting rights continues as societies strive for more equitable and representative democracies, seeking to address barriers to voting and enhance participation for all members of society.

Two

When some parties or individuals decide to boycott the polls, it can significantly affect the electoral process and the representation of the people. A vote boycott is a deliberate decision to refrain from participating in an election, often as a protest or a statement against the legitimacy of the process.

An immediate consequence of a boycott is a possible drop in voter turnout. This decline can undermine the overall representation of the electorate, undermine the perceived mandate, or the legitimacy of the election results. Low voter participation can raise concerns about the accuracy and inclusiveness of election results, potentially undermining the perceived mandate of elected officials.

Boycotts can also indicate a lack of confidence or dissatisfaction with the political system. This may be due to structural problems, perceived injustice, or disagreements with the candidates or with the electoral process. It serves as a way for disenfranchised groups to express their dissatisfaction with the status quo, and to draw attention to their grievances and pressure for changes in the system.

Furthermore, a boycott may inadvertently strengthen the position of some candidates or parties, especially those with loyal and motivated supporters who still prefer to participate in the electoral process. This can lead to skewed representation, where the views of boycotting groups are not adequately reflected in elected bodies or decision-making processes.

In the long run, a sustained pattern of boycotts can erode trust in the democratic process, leading to further disengagement from political participation. However, boycotts can also act as a catalyst for reform, sparking discussions about the need to change electoral laws, representation, or political structures to address the concerns of disenfranchised groups and encourage greater participation in the future.

Political parties play a fundamental role in representing diverse interests and viewpoints within a society, and abstaining from voting can significantly reduce their ability to advocate for their constituents and effect change within the political system. There are several compelling reasons for political parties to refrain from boycotting polls.

First, participation in the electoral process provides an important platform for political parties to articulate their ideologies, policies, and concerns to the public. By participating in elections, parties can present their vision for governance, highlight social problems, and communicate their proposed solutions, thereby shaping public discourse and influencing the political agenda. A boycott denies them this opportunity to engage with voters, limiting their ability to convey their message and potentially diminishing their relevance in the political landscape.

Furthermore, abstention reduces the voice and representation of party supporters and constituencies. Elections serve as a mechanism for citizens to express their preferences and hold representatives accountable. By boycotting, political parties deprive their followers of the opportunity to participate in shaping the direction of the regime, potentially alienating their base and reducing their political influence in the long run.

Boycotts also undermine the credibility and legitimacy of political parties in the eyes of voters. Participation in elections, even in the face of challenges or disagreements with the electoral process, demonstrates a commitment to democratic principles and a willingness to engage within established structures. A boycott can be seen as a retreat from democratic responsibility, which undermines the party's credibility and trust among the electorate.

Furthermore, by participating in the selection process, parties get the opportunity to observe, criticize, and address any flaws in the system. Instead of boycotting, they can actively advocate for electoral reform, transparency, and fairness, working to enhance the integrity of the democratic process for future elections.

While boycotts may serve as symbolic protest, this often comes at the cost of valuable opportunities for engagement, representation, and influence in the political sphere. Participating in elections allows political parties to assert their presence, advocate for changes within democratic structures, and engage with constituents.

Three

Voting stands as the cornerstone of a vibrant and functioning democracy, representing the essence of civic participation and social progress. At its core, the act of voting symbolizes the fundamental rights and responsibilities of citizens within a democratic society. It is a means by which individuals exercise their voice, contributing to the collective determination of the governance and direction of the nation.

Beyond rights, voting is a powerful tool for social change. It provides a way for individuals to express their preferences, values, and concerns about issues affecting their lives and communities. Through the ballot box, citizens have the opportunity to influence policy decisions, elect representatives based on their views, and hold leaders accountable for their actions.

Furthermore, voting serves as a mechanism for increasing inclusion and representation within a diverse society. This ensures that a broad spectrum of voices – regardless of race, gender, socio-economic status, or beliefs – contributes to the decision-making process. When people from all walks of life participate in elections, it helps create a more comprehensive and balanced representation of people in governance.

Participation in the electoral process not only shapes the present but also influences the future course of a nation. By casting their votes, citizens play an active role in shaping government policy and direction, affecting issues ranging from health care, education, and infrastructure to social justice and environmental concerns. Every vote carries the potential to influence legislation and shape the quality of life of individuals and communities.

Additionally, it serves as a testament to the hard-earned struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for suffrage and equal rights. It honors the legacy of the movements and individuals who advocated for the expansion of voting rights, ensuring that the principles of democracy continue to improve and evolve.

In essence, voting is not merely an individual act, but a collective expression of citizenship and democracy. It further strengthens the bond between the government and the governed, reiterating the principle that power ultimately rests with the people. By voting, citizens actively contribute to the ongoing evolution of a more just, equitable, and responsive society.

Scholars have commented on voting at different times. Here are some quotes that reflect the importance of voting and the essence of the democratic process. For example: "Voting is not only our right - it is our power." - Long Ung, Cambodian-American human rights activist and author. "Voting is an expression of our commitment to ourselves, to each other, to this country and this world." - Sharon Salzberg, American author and teacher of Buddhist meditation practice. "Voting is not only a privilege but a responsibility." - Tommy Douglas, Canadian Social-Democratic politician and Baptist minister."The vote is the most powerful tool man has ever devised to break down injustice and tear down the monstrous walls that imprison men because they are different from other men." - Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President of the United States. "Voting is a civic ritual." - Theodore Hesburgh, former University of Notre Dame president. "Bad officials are elected by good citizens who don't vote." - George Jean Nathan, American theater critic and magazine editor. "Voting is not just our right—it's our duty." - Layla Gifty Akita, Ghanaian writer and founder of Smart Youth Volunteers Foundation. "Voting is not only a right and a privilege, it is our moral responsibility." - Desmond Tutu, South African Anglican priest and human rights activist. "Voting is the most powerful nonviolent tool in a democratic society." - John Lewis, American civil rights leader and politician. "In a democracy, the ignorance of one voter undermines the safety of all." - John F. Kennedy, 35th President of the United States. "The ballot is stronger than the bullet." - Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States.

Four

Thus, voting in the upcoming 12th National Parliamentary Elections carries great significance for the future direction of the country's democratic process and governance. Each vote represents an important expression of civic duty and participation in shaping the course of the nation.

First, participation in the electoral process is a fundamental right and responsibility of every citizen in a democracy. By casting our votes, we contribute to the collective voice of the people, so that diverse perspectives and interests are represented in the governance of the nation. This Act strengthens the foundations of democracy by upholding the principles of government by the people, for the people.

Moreover, the country's national elections represent an important juncture for the progress and development of the country. The outcome of this election will determine the leadership, policies, and direction the elected government will take to continue to improve key areas such as economic growth, social welfare, education, and infrastructure. Every vote becomes a catalyst to influence the decisions and priorities of elected representatives, shaping the future of Bangladesh.

Furthermore, voting is a way to hold elected officials accountable. It empowers citizens to elect leaders who are committed to their values, aspirations, and vision for the nation. By actively participating in the electoral process, we contribute to building a government that reflects the will of the people and works to meet their needs and aspirations.

Additionally, in a diverse and dynamic country like Bangladesh, where different communities, cultures, and perspectives coexist, voting acts as a unifying force. It eliminates differences and promotes inclusiveness by allowing every citizen, regardless of socio-economic status or creed, to have a say in the country's governance. It reinforces the concept of unity in diversity and fosters a sense of collective ownership and responsibility for the progress of the nation.

Finally, voting in the upcoming national elections is not just a single task for us; It is about contributing to the fabric of democracy, shaping the nation's future, and ensuring our commitment to a government that reflects the will and aspirations of its people.

The writer is a researcher and development worker.