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ABSTRACT
Since independence, Bangladesh has rotated between electoral democracy and military rule, and between parliamentary and presidential forms of government. These persistent systematic changes have hampered the institutionalisation of democracy in Bangladesh and also seriously affected the growth of an effective parliament. However, the practice of boycotting parliament by the political parties, particularly by the opposition has been hampering the performance of parliamentary democracy in Bangladesh. The opposition lawmakers boycotted around half of the total sittings of parliamen t in a period of nearly 20 years since the restoration of parliamentary democracy in 1991. The persistent practice of boycotting parliament by the opposition is not only an unacceptable act but the practice is also damaging the image, popularity and credibility of Bangladesh parliament. The paper examines the underlying causes behind such practices and their adverse impact on parliamentary democracy. Immobilising the parliament through non-participation brings undemocratic forces to fore, as was witnessed du ring 2006 to 2008.
INTRODUCTION
In modern days of political system, the legislature as part of public administration of a country is considered indispensable for good governance. Particularly, in the democratic framework, the role of parliament and parliamentary structures in ensuring responsible and accountable government is distinctive. Many argue that "if there is one symbol that stands for a representative system, it is certainly that of the Assembly, a collegial body through which the will of all (or part) of the population is expressed".1 Hence, the importance of parliament in a democratic environment is significant in the sense that it represents pluralist conception, enabling different segments of the society to contribute in law making, holding the executive accountable, and setting value goals for the society.2 The Members of Parliament (MPs) are thought to be the agents of masses in the parliament under a democratic set up. Their active participation in the parliament is important for the sake of true democracy. In the Westminster system, parliament is the focal point of administering state affairs, and is the central locus for all discussions and solutions to the problems of the country.3 The opposition in the Westminster style parliaments has to play important role of overseeing the executive and hold them accountable.
Bangladesh, a country in South Asia, got her independence from Pakistan...