Dhaka, Dec. 30 -- Ensuring a peaceful, inclusive and credible national election will remain difficult unless illegal arms are recovered and the use of muscle power is effectively restrained, election experts said, stressing the urgent need to restore public trust in the electoral process.
Speakers also noted that widespread dissatisfaction over several recent elections has weakened confidence in democratic institutions, leaving many citizens-especially younger voters-without the experience of freely exercising their right to vote. In this context, speakers emphasised that neutral election observation, institutional integrity and strict enforcement of electoral laws are essential to creating a secure and participatory electoral environment....