Good sentiments are not enough

They even said that they could solve the 'minor' problems between BNP and AL through discussion--hopefully to create an environment whereby major issues of conflict could be addressed. Good intent, but hardly enough; for, they are in a race against time, which is fast running out for taking the bull of their mutual confrontation by the horn, or else real trouble lies in store for Bangladesh democracy.

National elections are drawing nearer and many vital issues relating to the conduct of polls are crying for resolution. There will have to be a common understanding on questions like dealing with terrorism, use of black money and muscle power, which are important not only for successfully holding the national elections but also for administering the country in the post-election era irrespective of which party comes to occupy the seat of power.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

It is high time, therefore, that the occasional bursts of agreeable sentiments being mutually voiced by senior leaders of both parties should be translated into concrete steps forward with multi-layered discussions leading to a national dialogue, one that will be productive of a national consensus on ways to hold free and fair elections.