EVM introducers must face probe
Staff Reporter :
Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar, Head of the Electoral Reform Commission (ERC), stated that while political parties often talk about positive changes, their behavior may change once they assume power.
He emphasized the need for reforms, along with other speakers, during a roundtable discussion on “Voter Awareness and Civic Activism” held at the Nasrul Hamid Auditorium of the Dhaka Reporters Unity on Monday.
Dr. Majumdar called for an investigation into those responsible for introducing and implementing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the country. He also announced that EVMs would not be used in the upcoming elections.
Highlighting the need for reforms, Dr. Majumdar noted that the demand for change had been a long-standing call from the public.
“Some of us may have forgotten this demand, while others suggest that reforms can come later. However, we must ensure that dictatorship, authoritarianism, or fascism never return. For that, reforms are essential,” he stated.
He further emphasized that one of the key demands was significant electoral reform. “A broad public consensus must be formed in support of these reforms.
The media plays a crucial role, and it’s important that the reforms we propose are well thought out and transparent,” he added.
The Election Reform Commission has submitted draft proposals to the Chief Adviser, urging investigations into the use of EVMs in previous elections and accountability for those responsible.
Dr. Majumdar pointed out that despite legal provisions for punishing election violations with sentences ranging from 2-7 years, no one has faced significant penalties.
“This undermines confidence in the system,” he said.
He also suggested including a “no vote” option in the upcoming elections to give voters more choices.
“The goal is to restore confidence in our electoral system. Even after 53-54 years, we have failed to uphold the country’s democratic processes, and the electoral system has been tarnished.
Comprehensive reforms are crucial for creating a level playing field, leading to fair and impartial elections,” he added.
Dr. Majumdar expressed optimism that reforms implemented by a caretaker government could help restore confidence over successive election cycles. “Through this effort, fair elections could become a regular practice,” he said.
When asked whether elections should precede reforms, Dr. Majumdar reiterated the importance of starting with a clean slate. “Elections could have been held earlier, but reforms are necessary to ensure fairness and impartiality. It’s not possible to conduct a fair election on an uneven playing field,” he explained.
Regarding local government elections, Dr. Majumdar said no decision has been made about whether elections at the union level will be conducted.