As the Poll Day draws near, discussions, rumors and debates on politics are becoming more serious among the general public. While some blame each other for expressing biased views, some expressed genuine concerns. Some of the educated people in Monggar say word ‘apolitical’ is restrictive.
The apolitical group like government officials and local government leaders say prohibiting them from partaking in the political events contradicts freedom of speech, the very fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution.
They even blame the BBS live question-hour session saying that the forum is becoming dirty and unethical, leading to personal attacks and opinions. They added no genuine issues were being discussed or asked by the people. But instead, they say, the forums highlighted some of the issues which might hinder the national security and economy.
Many say, allowing educated people to attend and ask questions during such political events would help towards constructive discussions. Some say there were no critical or analytical questions being raised in any of the live forums so far.
They say most of the forums were attended by local party supporters and questions raised were totally biased. If such rules and programmes continue, they say, will be dangerous in a young democracy.
During the BBS live forums in Monggar, some of the civil servants and local government leaders returned home with frustration after they were informed that they cannot attend any of the political events. None of the people was willing to speak on camera.
