Our expectation from independent MPs  

While addressing a meeting with independently elected law makers in the new parliament, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has  called upon all independent members of the parliament (MPs) to work for welfare of the country and its people in making parliament effective. She also told the MPs to disagree and criticize her government if needs be, but at the same time give topmost priority to work for country and peoples welfare.

The 12th parliament is all set to go into its maiden session from today (January 30), and 62 independent MPs out of 300 were elected from respective constituencies in the 12th parliamentary election held on January 7, 2024.

However, role of MPs in a parliamentary democracy, with or without a political affiliation is crucial. Apart from legislative responsibility, since MPs are required to pass laws, Members of Parliament are representatives of all of the constituents in their electorate. Their responsibilities are therefore often wide-ranging.
Functionally in which MPs typically serve their constituents includes: giving assistance and advice to those in difficulty, acting as a lobbyist for local interest groups, being a communicator for their partys policies and playing an active community role.

As for independent MPs only the third criterion is missing where they don have to communicate for a political partys policy. It has been observed across the globe that Independent MPs are generally able to vote according to their beliefs and the perceived will of their electorate, whereas members who belong to political parties are expected to follow the party line on most votes.

On that note - in order to meet professional responsibilities our independent MPs will have to be pro-active in their electorates to be well informed with what is happening coupled with get to know constituents views and problems. In addition, the MPs must also give constituents help and advice, communicate the needs of their region to the government, and promote their policies to the community.

However, what is interesting in the 12th National Parliament, with the largest number of independent MPs ever, is that several independent MPs have openly admitted that most of them are reluctant to join the opposition. Despite being independent MPs, they prefer to align themselves with the ruling party, as they are in some manner affiliated with the party. Now the question arises whether the Awami League will incorporate these independent candidates within their ranks or not?

Nevertheless, with Jatiya Party divided in two fractions as key oppositions in the parliament it would be an unprecedented event to witness how the independent MPs align themselves. And unless the independent MPs make best use of their offices, there is little to expect from them.

The minimum we expect from our independent MPs is to play a constructive role in legislative responsibilities, nation building and set example by offering constructive criticism in the new parliament.