Dhaka, Jan. 26 -- Speakers at a discussion on Monday highlighted the importance of equal rights and opinions of all citizens in an accountable and participatory democratic system, particularly emphasising the necessity of ensuring meaningful participation of minority communities in the context of the upcoming National Parliamentary Election 2026.

The speakers also highlighted the need to bring the voices of marginalized communities into the mainstream and ensure their active and fearless participation in the electoral process to strengthen transparency and accountability in state governance.

If the right to vote cannot be ensured in a fear-free environment, inclusive democracy will remain only a matter of words, the discussants said.

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