NN Online:
Head of the Election System Reform Commission Badiul Alam Majumdar has emphasised that the responsibility of determining which political parties are eligible to participate in elections lies with the Election Commission (EC) not with the reform commission.
He made these remarks on Sunday during a press briefing following a meeting on electoral system reforms at the Chattogram District Commissioner’s Office. In response to questions from journalists, he elaborated that the role of his commission is limited to proposing reforms to the electoral system, with the primary aim of improving the election process
Highlighting the widespread public desire for a free and fair election, he said, “We have realised that there is genuine interest, emotion, and enthusiasm among the people. When they see us, they want to express their aspirations, and offer various suggestions. Their main wish is for a fair and impartial election which will strengthen our democratic system and build a solid foundation for the future. This is the public’s aspiration, and we are working towards fulfilling it.
“We are hopeful that, as per the deadline, we will submit our proposal before the 31st. The chief advisor has instructed us to ensure that the electoral process stays on track. The first step in this was the formation of the election commission, which has now been accomplished.”
He clarified that although the current election commission operates under the old laws, it does not conflict with the objectives of the reform commission. He said, “Our work does not create any kind of conflict with theirs. The people selected for the inquiry committees are highly respected and non-partisan. We believe they are the right people for the job and that they will help deliver a fair election.”
About using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), He said, “The use of EVMs is out of the question. It will not happen and the election commission has also expressed the same stance.”
Local Government Expert Professor Tofail Ahmed, former additional secretary of the Election Commission Jesmin Tuli, Election Expert Dr Mohammad Abdul Alim and Chattogram District Commissioner Farida Khanam were present among others.
