Need for policy-driven politics

In most democratic countries, political competition revolves around policy. Different political parties advocate distinct policy frameworks to address national concerns such as the economy, education, healthcare, and the environment. These parties compete by proposing alternative policy solutions. For instance, left-leaning parties typically promote progressive taxation, whereas right-wing parties usually favour lower taxes. Citizens vote on the basis of programmes aligning with the party that reflect their vision for the nation, fostering accountability and progress.

Bangladesh, however, presents a different narrative. Here, political rivalry is not shaped by policy proposals but by allegiance to ideological sentiments, such as the "spirit of '71" or the "July Spirit." While aligning political practices with the nation's core ideals and public aspirations is important, this principle is often distorted. Political parties focus on proving their greater adherence to certain historical ideologies, prioritising the delegitimisation of opponents over addressing the nation's pressing issues.

This has fostered a political culture dominated by vilification and exclusion.

This obsession with ideological loyalty stifles policy debates. Political parties seldom present concrete solutions to real-world problems such as unemployment, inflation, or inequality. Instead, they engage in symbolic battles, claiming credit for historical achievements and discrediting rivals. This deepens societal divisions, fuelling mistrust and hostility by labelling opponents as unpatriotic or "anti-spirit." In the absence of policy-driven competition, the focus shifts to ideological dominance rather than addressing tangible challenges.

It is high time this practice was questioned. What does a party's degree of adherence to ideological sentiments have to do with governing effectively? How does debating ideological purity contribute to solving unemployment or improving healthcare?

Bangladesh must adopt a system where politics revolves around tangible issues and their solutions. Political parties need to move beyond exclusionary practices and embrace inclusive politics - one that unites rather than divides, prioritising the well-being of citizens over ideological posturing. The people deserve a politics that delivers results, not one that distracts from the real issues.

Md. Abrar Galib

Student, Department of Economics

University of Chittagong

[email protected]