ERC to hold local polls before national

Staff Reporter :

The Election Reform Commission (ERC) thinking to hold presidential election by direct participation of voters and local government polls before parliamentary election.

The ERC said it in a press briefing held at Agargaon Nirbachan Bhavan on Saturday.

Badiul Alam Majumder Chief of the ERC said they have got these as recommendations during discussion with stakeholders adding that not electing any uncontested candidate, return of no-vote, and ensuring transparency of the source of funds also recommended.

Majumder said a recommendation came to appoint the Election Commission based on political consensus.

The use of technology, especially for expatriates, was also encouraged during the meeting.

Questions were also raised about the percentage of votes needing to be elected.

Meanwhile, another member of the Reform Commission, Dr Tofail Ahmed, suggested holding local government elections before the national elections.

He believes that holding local government elections earlier will increase the capability of the Election Commission.

Tofail Ahmed said the opinion of civil society is that local elections should be held before the national elections, because holding local elections will increase the capacity of the commission.

In addition, the support required at the local level for the national elections will be ensured.

Tofail Ahmed also called for a comprehensive law to streamline elections at all tiers of local government, saying it would save significant public funds and improve efficiency.

“There are five types of local government elections, each governed by separate laws. One of our key tasks will be to reform these laws and develop a unified system,” he said.

Tofail emphasised that a consolidated legal framework would simplify the process and potentially align local government elections with national polls, ensuring better resource management and planning.