With the approach of the upcoming National Parliament Election, the political landscape is intensifying. The nation's two major political parties find themselves in a head-to-head confrontation. Each party is unveiling its own agenda at different times, creating a dynamic interplay. Meanwhile, the main opposing party along with other parties have been expressing various demands regarding the upcoming election method and the authority under which the election will take place. Their core message is that the election must be conducted under an impartial government. Conversely, the ruling party is resolute in its commitment to oversee the elections under its own party leadership. This has sparked a contrasting set of actions and reactions. These initiatives are progressively escalating in intensity as time elapses, generating a widespread sense of fear in the minds of the people.

Nevertheless, The Monthly Al-Kawsar and its parent entity, Markazud Dawah Al-Islamia Dhaka, have refrained from engaging in partisan politics, as conventional politics have never aligned with their objectives. Yet, as citizens of the country, we earnestly implore all parties to approach political agendas with utmost humility, bearing in mind the well-being, assets, and dignity of the people. It is imperative for everyone to be vigilant and ensure that innocent individuals remain unharmed. The emphasis should be on preventing conflicts and seeking constructive resolutions.

A nation has the capacity to address its own challenges. We observe that various nations and their diplomats are offering remarks on these matters. Numerous are hastening to engage with this nation. Similar to earlier times, the current leaders are also reproaching outsiders, questioning why they are meddling in the domestic affairs of this nation. If we reflect upon our historical and current context, our position and external reliance, many aspects become distinctively evident to us. When a nation implies the possibility of refusing us a visa, we experience anxiety and resort to pleading. Conversely, we aim to cultivate friendship with certain nations and enhance our power through their support, making our position stronger. This is how we inadvertently give foreigners the opportunity to meddle in our affairs.

Our primary concern ought to have been, why are others discussing our affairs? How do foreigners find room for involvement? What can we do with their politics? Can we venture to Europe and America and dictate, "Walk like this, do it like that"? We lack that privilege. How do they possess it? We all understand the rationale. We've grown interdependent. Our collective problems remain unresolved through shared dialogue. Even if we can collaborate with foreigners and seek advantages by accommodating their preferences, our principal political parties hesitate to convene. They are accustomed to flinging accusations at one another.

Hence, our earnest plea to all is to forsake the path of confrontation and convene for constructive dialogue. Through thoughtful deliberation, let us unearth a resolution. Intellectuals and impartial voices advocate that it is incumbent upon the ruling party and the government to instigate these discussions. This is because the government bears the responsibility for all aspects, including the nation's law and order. Consequently, if the government proactively engages in conversations with insightful citizens who hold the nation's well-being at heart, if they convene discussions with major political parties, and if all stakeholders gather around a single table, the specter of conflict will unquestionably dissipate. May the benevolence of Allah grace Bangladesh, shielding us from any impending harm.

Translation: Fayez Ahmed