[🇧🇩] Forming Election Commission/Conducting Elections

[Saif]

Date of Event: Oct 30, 2024

Source : https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/justice-zubayer-rahman-chowdhury-head-ec-search-committee-3739876 Short Summary: Monitoring the activities of interim govt. to hold national election.

Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury to head EC search committee

Clockwise from left: Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, Justice AKM Asaduzzaman, Prof CR Abrar, Prof Zinnatunnesa Tahmida Begum, Prof Mobasser Monem and Md Nurul Islam.

The government has formed a six-member search committee, chaired by Appellate Division Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, to select eligible candidates for a new Election Commission (EC).

The committee will recommend two candidates for each position, including the chief election commissioner and other election commissioners.

According to government sources, the committee will include Justice AKM Asaduzzaman from the High Court Division, nominated by the chief justice, and two distinguished citizens appointed by the president.

These individuals are former PSC Chairman Professor Zinnatunnesa Tahmida Begum and retired Dhaka University professor CR Abrar. Additionally, under the law, Comptroller and Auditor General of Bangladesh Md Nurul Islam and the Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), Mobassher Monem, will serve as ex-officio members.

Speaking on the matter at the secretariat earlier today, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul stated that the process for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election has begun. He mentioned that a search committee is being formed to constitute the Election Commission. An official notification will soon be issued after being signed by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.

The law adviser noted that there are numerous questions about the voter list, describing previous elections as fraudulent. This time, the voter list will be updated to ensure transparency.

The Awami League government was ousted on August 5 following a student-led uprising, and on the following day, President Mohammed Sahabuddin dissolved the 12th Parliament. On August 8, an interim government led by Yunus was established.

On September 5, the Election Commission, led by Kazi Habibul Awal, resigned before the end of its term. This commission had been sworn in on February 27, 2022.

The law for the appointment of the chief election commissioner and other election commissioners specifies that a six-member search committee will be formed by the president to establish the Election Commission.

This committee is to include an Appellate Division judge nominated by the chief justice (who will serve as committee chair), a High Court Division judge nominated by the chief justice, the comptroller and auditor general, the chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), and two distinguished citizens appointed by the president, one of whom must be a woman.

According to the law, the search committee must provide its recommendations to the president within 15 working days.​

 

[Saif]

Who are the EC search committee members? Let's find out

A gazette revealing the members of this committee was released today

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Who are the EC search committee members? Let's find out

Clockwise from left: Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, Justice AKM Asaduzzaman, Prof CR Abrar, Prof Zinnatunnesa Tahmida Begum, Prof Mobasser Monem and Md Nurul Islam

The interim government yesterday formed a six-member search committee to constitute a new Election Commission.

A gazette revealing the members of this committee was released today.

Who are the members of the said committee and what do we know about them?

Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury

Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury was appointed to lead the search committee. He was elevated as an Appellate Division judge on August 13 this year from the High Court Division.

Starting as an advocate of a district court on March 3, 1985, he became a High Court lawyer on May 17, 1987. On August 27, 2003, he was appointed as an additional judge of the HC Division, and later on August 27, 2005, was appointed its judge.

Zubayer completed his bachelors and master's in law from Dhaka University. He also holds a second masters in international law from the UK.


Justice AKM Asaduzzaman

Justice AKM Asaduzzaman enrolled as an advocate of the district court on September 5, 1983. He joined the HC Division on September 5, 1985, and the Appellate Division on October 25, 2001.

He was promoted as additional judge of the HC Division on August 27, 2003, and appointed its judge on August 27, 2005.

Asaduzzaman obtained his honours and master's in law from Rajshahi University.

Nurul Islam

Nurul Islam Islam joined the Bangladesh Civil Service in December 1989 as an audit and accounts cadre of the 8th batch.

He assumed office as comptroller and auditor general of Bangladesh on July 26, 2023. Prior to this position, he served as the controller general of accounts for around three years.

He received the National Integrity Award from the Ministry of Finance in 2022.

He has also served as the controller general of defence finance, additional director-general (finance), and senior finance controller (army) at Dhaka cantonment.

He completed his honours and master's in public administration from Dhaka University.

Prof Mobasser Monem

Mobasser Monem was appointed chairman of Bangladesh Public Service Commission on October 9.

He holds a PhD from the University of London and has completed postdoctoral research at both Sussex University and the University of Heidelberg. He also serves as a professor at DU's governance and public management. His research expertise lies in governance, public sector innovation, and comparative public policy.

Monem has authored two books and published over 100 scholarly articles.

He was a visiting professor at Korea University in South Korea, where he taught public management and policy. He was also a teaching and research fellow at University of Heidelberg in Germany and a visiting research fellow at University of Sussex in the UK.

Prof CR Abrar

Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, widely known as CR Abrar, is a retired professor of international relations at DU, a rights activist, and a migration expert.

He currently serves as the president of Odhikar, a human rights organisation; and executive director of Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit.

He has published in national and international journals on labour recruitment industry, social protection, and rights of Rohingya refugees.

He is a strong voice against the Digital Security Act and later the Cyber Security Act.

Prof ZN Tahmida Begum

Zinnatun Nessa Tahmida Begum, a retired professor of botany at DU, was the first ever woman chair of Bangladesh Public Service Commission.

Zinnatun, a pro-BNP White Panel member, was also a pro-VC and syndicate member of DU.

She is also a fellow of the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences and a member of the Bangladesh Society of Microbiologists.

She also served as a Trustee Board member of Bangladesh National Museum and is also an editorial board member of the Journal of Science Foundation, published by Bangladesh Science Foundation.​

 

[Saif]

Search committee seeks names for CEC, ECs by Nov 7

The search committee has invited political parties, professional bodies, and individuals to propose names for the positions of chief election commissioner and election commissioners by November 7 for the formation of the next Election Commission.

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Search committee seeks names for CEC, ECs by Nov 7

The search committee has invited political parties, professional bodies, and individuals to propose names for the positions of chief election commissioner and election commissioners by November 7 for the formation of the next Election Commission.

A circular, signed by Md Nazrul Islam, joint secretary of the Cabinet Division, was issued in this regard yesterday.

"Political parties and professional organisations can propose a maximum of five names for the positions of chief election commissioner and other election commissioners by 5:00pm on November 7. Interested individuals may also submit their names," according to the circular.

Nominations, along with complete bio-data, should be sent directly to the Cabinet Division or via email at gfp_sec@cabinet.gov.bd, the circular said.

The circular further added that under Section 3 of the Election Commission Appointment Act-2022, the search committee is responsible for recommending candidates for the positions of CEC and other ECs.

Before the first meeting of the search committee, Cabinet Secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid told journalists that the new EC would consist of "honest, fearless, and efficient individuals".

"I am not a member of the search committee, but we will provide administrative support as needed," he added.

The cabinet secretary explained that the committee has discussed its approach and will outline the next steps in forming the EC.

When asked about the timeline, he said the committee is required to submit its recommendations within 15 working days, after which the president will finalise the appointments.

On October 31, the interim government published the gazette notification for the six-member search committee tasked with proposing names for the next EC.

The committee is headed by Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court.

Its other members include Justice AKM Asaduzzaman of the High Court Division, Comptroller and Auditor General of Bangladesh Md Nurul Islam, Public Service Commission Chairman Mobasser Momen, former Dhaka University Prof CR Abrar, and former PSC chairman Prof Zeenatun Nesa Tahmida Begum.​

 

[Saif]

Search committee to appoint honest, fearless EC members: cabinet secretary

The new Election Commission will be composed of "honest, fearless, and efficient individuals," Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid said today, following the inaugural meeting of the search committee chaired by Appellate Division Judge Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury

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Search committee to appoint honest, fearless EC members: cabinet secretary

Sheikh Abdur Rashid

The new Election Commission will be composed of "honest, fearless, and efficient individuals," Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid said today, following the inaugural meeting of the search committee chaired by Appellate Division Judge Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury.

While briefing reporters, Rashid clarified his role, saying, "I am not a member of the Search Committee, but we will provide administrative assistance as needed."

He further noted that the committee had discussed its approach and will determine the next steps in forming the Election Commission.

When asked about the timeline for the commission's formation, Rashid explained that the committee is mandated to submit its recommendations within 15 working days, after which the president will finalise the appointment of the Election Commission.

The interim government established this six-member Search Committee on October 31 to recommend candidates for the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners.

The committee is expected to propose two candidates for each position.

Apart from Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, the committee includes Justice AKM Asaduzzaman of the High Court Division, Comptroller and Auditor General Md Nurul Islam, Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC) Chairman Mobasser Monem, former Dhaka University International Relations Professor Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, and former PSC chair Professor Zinnatun Nessa Tahmida Begum.

A notification regarding the committee's formation was issued by the Cabinet Division on Thursday, outlining its mandate to ensure that the selection process adheres to legal standards and prioritises integrity and efficiency in its choices for the new Election Commission.​

 

[Saif]

Elections will follow reforms: Yunus

In an interview with AFP, he says 'interim govt's tenure should be as short as possible'

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Elections will follow reforms: Yunus
In an interview with AFP, he says 'interim govt's tenure should be as short as possible'

Bangladesh's interim leader Muhammad Yunus told AFP on Wednesday that reforms are needed before his country can elect a government following the ouster of autocratic former ruler Sheikh Hasina.

The speed of reforms "will decide how quick the election will be," the Nobel Peace Prize winner and micro-finance pioneer said in an interview on the sidelines of the COP29 climate talks in Baku.

But he insisted that he would steer the country towards a democratic vote.

"That's a promise that we made, that as soon as we are ready, we'll have the elections, and the elected people can take over, run the country," he said.

He said the country needed to quickly agree on possible constitutional reforms, as well as the shape of the government, parliament and election rules.

"We are the interim government, so our period should be as short as possible."

Yunus was named to lead the government as "chief advisor" after a student-led uprising toppled Hasina in August.

Tens of thousands demonstrated in protests against job quotas that morphed into a nationwide struggle to end Hasina's 15 years of iron-fisted rule.

More than 700 people were killed, many in a brutal police crackdown, before Hasina fled to India by helicopter on August 5.

The country has struggled with instability since the ouster of Hasina, whose rule saw widespread human rights abuses, including the mass detention and extrajudicial killings of her political opponents.

"Any government would be concerned about stability. We are also," he said.

"We are hoping that we can sort it out and have a peaceful law and order," he added.

"It's only three months after the revolution."

The country of some 170 million people is struggling financially and, earlier this month, Indian firm Adani slashed cross-border electricity supply by half due to some $850 million in unpaid bills.​

 

[Saif]

Reforms first, then polls

The Islami Andolan Bangladesh prioritises reforms over elections but also believes the government should announce a timeline of its own accord. Still in talks with other Islamist parties for a grand coalition, Islami Andolan chief Syed Mohammad Rezaul Karim told The Daily Star during an...

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Reforms first, then polls
Says Islami Andolan Bangladesh chief

The Islami Andolan Bangladesh was founded in 1987 by Syed Fazlul Karim, the pir of Charmonai in Barishal, as Islami Shashontantra Andolan. It took its current name in 2008. In light of the recent realignment of political forces, it has become important to understand the stance and vision of key Islamist platforms. This interview of Islami Andolan chief Syed Mohammad Rezaul Karim, done on October 26, is the second in a series of interviews with leaders of Islamist parties.

The Islami Andolan Bangladesh prioritises reforms over elections but also believes the government should announce a timeline of its own accord. Still in talks with other Islamist parties for a grand coalition, Islami Andolan chief Syed Mohammad Rezaul Karim told The Daily Star during an exclusive interview that it favoured proportional representation instead of the prevailing 'first-past-the-post' election system.

The Islamist party's chief stressed he was unwilling to compromise on reforms. "The reforms should be done well and quickly so that we can move on to elections. But the priority must be on reforms."

Ameer of the Islamist party established in 1987 as the Isalmi Shashantantra Andolan (which later turned into the Islami Andolan Bangladesh), Rezaul Karim, said he was not willing to wait too long either, as reforms ploughed on. "In terms of a timeline, I would say a year or a year and a half."

"But it would be nice to hear some sort of a timeline from the interim government too," he said regarding the next national elections.

Also the pir of Charmonai, Syed Md Rezaul Karim, said all the Islamist parties were working towards a grand coalition. "We are holding discussions and hope to have a united front for the elections." He indicated that the Islamist parties would try to go to the polls under one umbrella and lend their support in favour of the alliance candidates instead of trying to field their own candidates in each constituency.

But when asked who would be leading such a coalition, the Islami Andolan leader said most of the parties were leaning towards a proportional representation system. "In such a system there was no need for an electoral alliance and the parties were free to campaign on their own." He explained that in such a scenario, it would be more like a common platform, rather than an electoral alliance.

The benefit, he pointed out, was that each party would be allotted seats in the parliament according to the proportion of their votes. "That way, every single vote counts."

He said, "We have thought about this a lot and also discussed about it with others. This system is in effect in 91 countries. Everyone benefits from such a system."

Rezaul Karim said he believed that the prevailing system was not working out for the people. "We have seen that it only gives rise to fascism." He indicated that successive governments over the course of Bangladesh's existence have exhibited fascist characteristics, and proportional representation would address that issue.

As for constitutional reforms, the Islami Andolan leader explained that the previous regime had passed a number of laws that were harmful to the people and the country. He said they had also made several changes to the constitution. "Those should be the first ones to be struck out."

Asked about the status of non-Muslims in a state that he aspires for, Rezaul Karim said Islam was the only means to a welfare state where everyone's rights are respected. He said, "I will just say one thing to allay any apprehensions. Islam dictates that the property and assets of a non-Muslim must be treated with equal respect and must be provided equal status as that of a Muslim." Rezaul Karim claimed that was why it had been documented in history that non-Muslims left their native lands and chose to live under Islamic rule.

When asked about women's rights, the pir of Charmonai in Barishal said, "Islam gives more rights to women." He continued saying that women's liberty did not mean the right to nudity. "But unfortunately, that is what women's liberty seems to mean. It only brings destruction to society." However, this Islamist outfit's predecessor Islami Shashantantra Andolan under Rezaul Karim's father had criticised women's sport in 2004. In fact, the organisation had taken to the streets, protesting a women's football tournament. They declared that it was a "disgrace to women".

He said that women's status in Islam was, in fact is, higher than that of men. "Islam dictates that if the father and the mother call their child, the child should answer the mother first."

Rezaul Karim said his party had hundreds of thousands of women workers but the policymaking bodies of the party — majlish-e-shura and the executive committee — do not yet have 30 percent women but on their way to getting there. When pressed for a specific number, he reiterated his previous answer that the party was in the process of having 30 percent women in its policymaking bodies.

Regarding President Mohammed Shahabuddin, Rezaul Karim said, "We think he should come forward and remove himself from office for the greater good. I think that would not be much of a problem for us."​

 

[Saif]

Professor Yunus tells AFP that elections will follow reforms

Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus said on Wednesday that reforms are needed before his country can elect a government following the ouster of autocratic former ruler Sheikh Hasina...

www.newagebd.net

Professor Yunus tells AFP that elections will follow reforms
Agence France-Presse . Baku, Azerbaijan 14 November, 2024, 12:46

Muhammad Yunus

Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus said on Wednesday that reforms are needed before his country can elect a government following the ouster of autocratic former ruler Sheikh Hasina.

The speed of reforms ‘will decide how quick the election will be,’ the Nobel Peace Prize winner and micro-finance pioneer said in an interview on the side-lines of the COP29 climate talks in Baku.

But he insisted that he would steer the country towards a democratic vote.

‘That’s a promise that we made, that as soon as we are ready, we’ll have the elections, and the elected people can take over, run the country,’ he said.

He said the country needed to quickly agree on possible constitutional reforms, as well as the shape of the government, parliament and election rules.

‘We are the interim government, so our period should be as short as possible.’

Yunus was named to lead the government as ‘chief advisor’ after a student-led uprising toppled Hasina in August.

Tens of thousands demonstrated in protests against job quotas that morphed into a nationwide struggle to end Hasina’s 15 years of iron-fisted rule.

More than 700 people were killed, many in a brutal police crackdown, before Hasina fled to India by helicopter on August 5.

The country has struggled with instability since the ouster of Hasina, whose rule saw widespread human rights abuses, including the mass detention and extrajudicial killings of her political opponents.

‘Any government would be concerned about stability. We are also,’ he said.

‘We are hoping that we can sort it out and have a peaceful law and order,’ he added.

‘It’s only three months after the revolution.’​

 

[Saif]

Election Reform Commission seeks political consensus on EVM

Chairman of the Election Reform Commission Badiul Alam Majumdar has called for political consensus on the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs), citing ongoing concerns over their reliability and potential for misuse

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Election Reform Commission seeks political consensus on EVM

Chairman of the Election Reform Commission Badiul Alam Majumdar has called for political consensus on the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs), citing ongoing concerns over their reliability and potential for misuse.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Election Commission headquarters yesterday, Majumdar referred to EVMs as "flawed and controversial devices," highlighting the contentious debate surrounding their role in the electoral process.

The Election Reform Commission has so far held 21 meetings to address weaknesses in electoral laws, regulations and processes.

Based on deliberations in the meetings, the commission has formulated several recommendations aimed at ensuring a more transparent and efficient electoral system.

"Our members have also engaged in consultations with diverse stakeholders. We are also gathering feedback through our website, emails, and social media platforms. So far, we have received 364 emails and messages providing valuable insights," Majumdar said.

Reaffirming the commission's impartiality, he said, "We have no hidden agenda. Our work is unbiased and not aligned with any political party. We are determined to ensure that past mistakes are not repeated."

Majumdar condemned the alleged role of intelligence agencies in previous elections, accusing them of unlawful harassment of voters and candidates.

"Those responsible for such actions should be held accountable. Such irregularities have no place in a democratic electoral process," he asserted.

Challenges with EVM USE

The challenges associated with EVMs extend beyond technical issues, encompassing operational inefficiencies and a lack of transparency. The sudden announcement of voting centres, followed by logistical complications, has further eroded public confidence in the electoral process.

Some 60,000 to 70,000 malfunctioning EVMs are currently stored at the Bangladesh Machine Tools Factory Limited (BMTF), incurring ongoing warehouse expenses that were not included in the initial project budget.

The Election Reform Commission's recommendations are expected to contribute significantly to making the electoral process more transparent and inclusive, as stakeholders remain hopeful that these efforts will strengthen the democratic framework of the country.​

 

[Saif]

Have patience for election

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus yesterday said the government would issue a roadmap to the election as soon decisions on electoral reforms are made.

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Have patience for election
Yunus urges people in address marking 100 days of interim government

— Prof Muhammad Yunus

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus yesterday said the government would issue a roadmap to the election as soon decisions on electoral reforms are made.

In a televised address to the nation, marking 100 days of the interim government, Yunus said that the reforms may delay the election by a few months.

Several reform commissions are working, and they will hopefully submit their reports between December and January. The government will then discuss the recommendations with political parties.

"The reform proposals will be finalised based on everyone's consensus," he said.

The question of when the next election will take place is on everyone's mind. "It is on our minds too."

The government is taking the steps necessary to arrange the election. The new Election Commission will be formed in a few days, he said.

The EC will start updating the voter's list. For the first time, the government is working to find a way for expatriate citizens to vote through postal ballots, Prof Yunus said.

But forming an EC does not end the government's responsibility. "Reforming the state system is a key commitment of this government. You have given us this mandate."

One of the six reform commissions is the Electoral Reform Commission. The recommendations of the Constitutional Reform Commission are essential for political parties and people so that they can reach a consensus on election-related matters.

"Based on the consensus… electoral laws will need to be amended.

"I am not sure how much opportunity we will have to implement the proposed reforms. However, I assure you, if you allow us, we will make some necessary reforms and hold the election you desire. Until then, I request you all to be patient.

"We want to create an election system that will be in place for generations. This will protect our country from political crises. For this, I am requesting the necessary time from you. Once decisions on electoral reforms are made, you will get the election roadmap fast."

The interim government should not deprive the nation of the fulfilment of its aspiration of a new political environment.

"The train to the election has started rolling. It will not stop. But as we move forward, we need to do a lot of work. The train will reach its final station depending on how quickly we can lay down the tracks, and this will happen through consensus among the political parties."

Additional time may be needed to reach a consensus on other important reforms. "We will continue to ask the public and political parties what reforms they want ahead of the election. Some reforms may occur during the election process.

"The election may be delayed by a few months to implement the reforms."

The most important task is to organise a free and fair election and let the winner take over.

The government maintains regular communication with political parties. "We take their opinions on various issues. These opinions are largely reflected in our decisions. Their opinions are considered in the reform process."

At the beginning of the 34-minute speech Prof Yunus remembered the martyrs of the Liberation War and the martyrs of the July uprising.

The interim government took office when the country was in utter chaos, he said.

Around 1,500 students and others were killed and 19,931 were injured during the uprising. Their rehabilitation and treatment will be ensured.

"We will surely bring justice for each killing. The efforts for justice regarding the July-August killings are progressing. We will demand the repatriation of the fallen dictator, Sheikh Hasina, from India," he said.

The government will ensure justice for all the misdeeds committed in the last 15 years. "Innumerable people have been victims of enforced disappearance or killed during this period."

The commission for enforced disappearances has information on 1,600 instances of enforced disappearances. The commission believes this number will exceed 3,500, he said.

Many are still scared to report enforced disappearances. "Please report to the commission with full confidence. No one has the power to harm you again."

The testimonies the commission received from the victims are heart-wrenching.

Those involved in these crimes will face justice. No matter how powerful the accused are, or which force they belong to, there will be no mercy, he said.

The interim government has taken steps to hold the trial of enforced disappearances and July-August mass murders to the International Criminal Court.

The government is trying to boost the morale of the police. There has been visible progress in this regard, he said.

When the government took charge, there were attempts to spread fear among religious minorities.

"In some cases, they became victims of violence. But the propaganda surrounding this was exaggerated. The little violence that occurred had political connections."

Six floods had damaged crops and disrupted supply chains, pushing up the prices of vegetables and other essentials.

"We are doing our best to keep the prices of essentials reasonable."

To keep the supply and price stable in Ramadan, government authorities are meeting traders. Policies are being adopted to curb inflation; fuel prices have fallen a bit; and steps have been taken to increase the gas supply to industries to ensure uninterrupted production.

Efforts are being made to stop extortion in the transport sector, bring hydropower from Nepal

To help free the judiciary of bribery, the Supreme Judicial Council has been reinstated. The government is committed to protect all sectors from corruption.

Restructuring of the Anti-Corruption Commission is almost in its final stages; a list of 150 influential individuals accused of corruption and money laundering has been prepared, and investigations have begun against 79.

At least 19,084 government officers and employees have been promoted, 13,429 transferred, and 12,636 punished. The readymade garment sector became unstable, but the government managed to resolve discontent without major violence.

When the interim government took office, foreign exchange reserves were at "rock bottom". But the economy is now stronger, he said.

Reserves are improving. Without drawing from the reserves, the government managed to pay off nearly $ 2 billion in foreign debt.

"Ambassadors from different countries who visited me reiterated their governments' pledges of support. They have already started working on a new framework for assistance."

Twenty ambassadors from 20 European Union countries whose stations are in Delhi and seven ambassadors of seven EU countries will meet him, he said.

The World Bank, IMF, and other donor agencies and friendly nations have already pledged nearly 8 billion dollars in loans and grants, he said.

Once the aid starts flowing in, the country's economy will become strong, encouraging foreign investors to come here.

The fallen government and its accomplices have syphoned off $ 12-15 billion from the country every year. The interim government is trying to bring back the money.

"If we succeed, it will give a significant boost to our economy."

He urged expatriate citizens to invest in the private sector of Bangladesh.

Referring to the Awami League, he said, "They are trying to present themselves in various forms as your favourites. Stay away from the conspiracies of the defeated forces, and keep the country free. Be firm."

There is a "massive plan" at home and abroad to destabilise and break the morale of the interim government. "A major effort is being made to divide us. The leaders of the fallen government… are trying to come back to the country using ill-gotten wealth.

"Do not let them succeed. Their success would mean the nation's demise, the end of our identity as a nation. Remain vigilant."

The interim government will leave power in a short period of time.

"But the historic opportunity created for the nation must not be lost, and I strongly call on everyone… to stay firm in ensuring that this opportunity is not lost."​

 

[Saif]

Election roadmap after electoral reforms: Yunus

Interim government chief Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said that the election roadmap would be declared immediately after electoral reforms.

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Election roadmap after electoral reforms: Yunus
Ahammad Foyez 17 November, 2024, 19:42

Interim government chief Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said that the election roadmap would be declared immediately after electoral reforms.

‘The election train has started its journey. It will not stop. But we have to complete many tasks along the way. When this train reaches the last station will depend on how soon we can lay the railway lines for it and that will be through the consensus of the political parties,’ Yunus said in his televised address to the nation marking 100 days of the government.

Three days after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League regime and her fleeing to India amid an unprecedented student-people uprising, Yunus took office as chief adviser to the interim government on August 8.

Mentioning the role of the students and people in the July-August movement, Yunus said that the government would prosecute every killing.

‘The initiative we have taken to prosecute the July-August killings is also progressing well. We will also demand the return of the fallen dictator, Sheikh Hasina, from India. Not only the July-August killings, we will prosecute all the misdeeds of the past 15 years,’ he said.

‘I am not sure how much opportunity we will get to implement the reform proposals. But I promise you, if you give me a chance, we will organise your desired elections after completing some necessary reforms,’ Yunus said.

‘Till then, I request you to be patient. We want that we are able to create an electoral system that will be followed for ages,’ he said, adding that it would consequently save the country from recurrent political crises.

For this, he said that he was asking the nation for the necessary time as once the decision on electoral reforms was made, the election roadmap would follow soon.

The interim government was formed to bring politics into the framework of policies, and out of an intense desire to create a new environment for politics, he said.

He said that in addition to the day-to-day running of the state, his government also had to think about building Bangladesh for the future.

‘As you all know, our most important task is to hand over responsibility to the elected government through organising a free and fair election. We have continued our regular communication with the political parties,’ he said.

Having said that political parties were giving their views on various issues, the chief adviser added that these views were being reflected to a large extent in the government’s decision-making.

‘Each of their views is being actively taken into consideration in the ongoing reform process. We hope that the reform commissions will be able to submit their recommendations to the government within the stipulated time, December-January,’ Yunus said.

The government was continuously holding discussions with the political parties on their recommendations and wound finalise the reform proposal based on unanimous agreement.

‘The question of when the elections will be held is on all of your minds. It is also on our minds all the time. You have noticed that we have started taking necessary steps to organise the elections,’ he said, adding that the Election Commission would be formed in a few days.

‘From then on, all the responsibility of organising the elections will fall on them. The Election Commission will be able to start some other tasks, including updating the voter list, which are directly related to a free election,’ he said.

The government was also working to ensure that non-resident Bangladeshis could exercise their voting rights through postal ballots for the first time, he added.

‘However, we do not think that our responsibility in organising elections ends once an election commission is formed. Reforms in the state system are one of the commitments of this government. You have given us this mandate. The six reform commissions that we have formed at the beginning have already taken their activities a long way,’ he said.

He said that people were also seeing updates on their activities in various media.

One of the first six reform commissions was the Election Reform Commission, the recommendations of which were highly important for holding elections, he said, urging the public to express opinions without hesitation.

‘You are the owner of the country. You say what you want, how you want,’ he said.

Yunus urged the public to keep expressing opinions about reforms in elections and other areas, while talking about elections, and said that reforms were the long-term lifeblood of the nation.

‘Keep speaking your mind about elections without any hesitation. Express everyone’s opinion. My request is that you keep talking about reforms at the same time, do not bypass reforms,’ he added.

Reforms would give the nation, especially the youth, an opportunity to create a new world, he said.

The commission for which the opinions of political parties and all the people of the country were most essential was the Constitution Reform Commission, he said, adding that the electoral law would have to be amended based on which part of these recommendations was acceptable to everyone.

‘In parallel, the process of updating the voter list will continue,’ he said.

Meantime, discussions would continue on the recommendations of other reform commissions, he said, adding that additional time might be needed to build consensus on important reforms beyond the elections.

‘We will continue to ask the country’s people, especially the political parties, what reforms they want to implement before the elections. Some reforms may be made during the election preparations. The elections may even be delayed for a few months for reforms,’ he said.

‘I appeal to everyone, regardless of party affiliation, gender, religion, young and old, students, businessmen, workers, farmers, to remain firm on this so that we do not miss the historic opportunity that has been brought to the nation through us. I hope you will accept my appeal,’ the chief adviser concluded.​

 

[Saif]

People to decide on polls, with or without reforms: Prof Yunus

In an interview with Al Jazeera, the chief adviser gives his take on key issues including the economy, ties with India, the US, Sheikh Hasina's extradition, minority rights and more

www.thedailystar.net

People to decide on polls, with or without reforms: Prof Yunus

In an interview with Al Jazeera, the chief adviser gives his take on key issues including the economy, ties with India, the US, Sheikh Hasina's extradition, minority rights and more.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, in an interview with Al Jazeera, said his interim government is focusing on reforms of state institutions, but would announce elections anytime if people want it, with or without reforms.

Asked about when the election can take place, he said he has no definite answer to that.

Prof Yunus said his government simultaneously pushing reforms and preparing for an election. He said the student-led mass uprising has presented his government with the opportunity that no government in Bangladesh had: the mandate to change the ineffective old ways for a "New Bangladesh".

"New Bangladesh is not going to come through just holding an election. Holding an election is a repetition of the old ways of doing things in politics …. So we want to get rid of those things and that's what the population of the whole country wants. Something new, something different than the old. So that needs many things," he said referring to the reform initiatives his government has taken to bring about the changes in the key sectors like the judiciary, election commission, and even in the constitution.

However, he said the "election train" has already begun its journey and people will have the final say when the election will be held.

"And it's up to the people, up to the political parties to decide which way to go. …. And we'll keep asking the people of Bangladesh -- would you like to go to the election now or after these reforms are done?" he added.

"So it's all a question of what people want, the political parties want. If political parties say forget about it, give the election, we'll do it," the CA said, adding that his government "will not impose anything on the people".

Asked about how long the interim government can last, Prof Yunus said he has no idea about it either.

He said every government is interim as all have a certain tenure.

"The regular government lasts for 5 years. The new constitution [after reforms] may go for four years probably because people may want it. So, it should be under four years, that's for sure. It may be less," he said.

Asked if the interim government could stay for four years, Yunus said, "I didn't say that I'll be [here] for 4 years. I'm saying this is the term that maximum one can go. But that's not our intention. Our intention to get it done as quickly as possible."

When asked if he plans to stand for election, Yunus said, "I am not a politician. I enjoy my role, what I am doing at the last stage of my life. I'm not going to change that."

Ties with India and extradition of Sheikh Hasina

Asked about how his government is eyeing to resolve longstanding issues like water and resource sharing with India, Yunus said both countries need to work together to solve those.

"We have to work together … Bangladesh alone cannot solve these problems. We need collaboration, we need cooperation from India because all the sources of rivers are in India or passing through India," he said.

"We need to have a good water management system together. It cannot be done alone and I'm sure it can be done," he added.

Asked about how his administration take on the statements issued by Sheikh Hasina, the ousted prime minister, from India, the chief adviser said those are her attempts to destabilise the country, and India has a role to play here.

"You [India] are hosting her, that's fine. But please make sure that she doesn't create problems for us. Then we have to go back and complain to you that you are hosting something which is bad for us. We should be able to kind of resolve it amicably between India and Bangladesh," he said.

When mentioned that Hasina still claims to be the PM of Bangladesh, Dr Yunus said she can call herself many things but that's not what the reality is.

"Even India says she's an ex-prime minister. So, even her host is not recognising her as anything but an ex-prime minister," he added.

Asked if his government will be pushing for Hasina's extradition, he said, "Yes. Because there's a legal process going on and if she is found guilty, we'll ask for her repatriation."

Minority rights

Prof Yunus also refuted the claims that violence against minorities including Hindus has increased during his tenure. He said the violence that took place during the mass uprising was political, not religious.

He said the violence mostly targeted Awami League supporters and most of the Hindus happen to be their supporters.

"They were angry with the Awami League and those people who were attacked were active in the Awami League," he added.

Asked how he wants to bridge the divide, Prof Yunus said his government will ensure rights to every citizen.

When asked about the statement of US president-elect Donald Trump on the minority rights issues in Bangladesh ahead of the US election, the Nobel peace laureate said the reality on the ground is different.

"This is mostly propaganda … baseless propaganda. It's unfortunate [that] most of the propaganda originates from the Indian side for whatever reason. [They are doing this] maybe to keep this tension alive, probably. But in reality, it doesn't exist," he said, adding that Hindus have celebrated Durga Puja in thousands of puja mandaps without any hassle.

Ties with Trump and US

In the interview with the Qatar-based television network, Prof Yunus said he does not foresee any changes in US policy as Trump is taking office, adding that he has no personal issues with the president-elect or with the Republican Party.

"I had no interaction with president Trump in the past. So I had no problem with him in a personal way. … I have friends in the Democratic Party, I have friends in the republican party. It was the House which voted for Congressional gold medal for me," he said.

"I think the foreign policy of the United States is not something switches back and forth depending on who's the president there, said Prof Yunus.

When the host asked if he thinks the US will take a different stance towards the region after Trump takes power, Prof Yunus said, "I don't think so, absolutely no way."

Allegation of US meddling

Asked about Sheikh Hasina's allegation that the US played a part in her ouster, the chief adviser refuted the claim. He said the family of the ex-PM asked the help of the military to help her flee the country as people were about to invade her official residence.

"So, the Army helped her to … go to India and that's how it happened. It's not somebody instructing somebody, sending some army … it's not like that. [The change came through] this student movement which was joined by the entire population of the country," he added.

The Nobel peace laureate said he was not in the country when the AL government was ousted on August 5. Talking about the uncertainty that prevailed during that time, Prof Yunus said he was invited to head the interim government over a call and by the time he took oath, the country was without a government for three days.

Asked if he was surprised by how the events unfolded including the fleeing of Sheikh Hasina, Prof Yunus said not only him, but everyone was surprised by the sudden developments.

"She was so entrenched; nobody thought she was really [going to] run away," he said, adding that the mobilization against her was massive.

"That was something unheard of, something unplanned, and nobody knew that this would happen. The expectation was [that] something would happen because the whole country was against her. … But it happened."

Accepting the role of chief adviser

Asked how much consideration he gave after receiving the offer of heading the interim government, Yunus said he initially didn't want to get into politics. He said he told them to find somebody else to run the country.

He said he told them to call him a day after rethinking about the proposal

"So they called me the next day. They said we debated and discussed, you should take over. So we are waiting for you and you have to agree," the CA said.

"So, finally I said, look you have given lives for this and suffered so much for this. If you have done so much already, I will forget what I said before and I'll accept your invitation and I'll come back. So I came back," he added.

Bangladesh economy

Asked about Bangladesh's economy, Prof Yunus said he has inherited a "dysfunctional economy".

"Oh, it's terrible; the whole economy is in terrible shape. The previous government has taken so many big projects -- billions of dollars projects. The whole banking system is totally destroyed. Billions of dollars have been transferred from Bangladesh to her [Shekh Hasina] cronies and other people. So, it is in shambles," he said.

However, Yunus said he is optimistic as his government has received "tremendous support" from the world community.

"They very, very warmly supported us and that's what helped us," he said referring to the world organisations and governments. He said those helps have helped his government in putting the banking system back in shape and also in making big payments.

"We already made big payments without touching the reserve," he said, adding that those were made from the "current income".

Asked when people will get the benefits of such actions, he said the effects are already being felt by the people as they can rely on the financial system.

"Inflation is not going wild, our foreign exchange is not disappearing, and it is building up every month. So, the confidence is coming back," he said.​

 

[Saif]

Yunus on Hasina: She can call herself Bangladesh PM, reality differs

 

[Saif]

Won’t allow AL in election before trial for mass killing: Sarjis

The general secretary of July Shaheed Smrity Foundation, Sarjis Alam, has expressed a firm determination that they would not allow deposed Awami League in any election before they undergo a trial for mass killing.

en.prothomalo.com

Won’t allow AL in election before trial for mass killing: Sarjis
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Updated: 19 Nov 2024, 19: 20

Sarjis AlamCollected

The general secretary of July Shaheed Smrity Foundation, Sarjis Alam, has expressed a firm determination that they would not allow deposed Awami League in any election before they undergo a trial for mass killing.

“We will not let Awami League participate in any election before their trial for mass killing. If necessary, there will be a second uprising,” he wrote on his verified Facebook handle on Tuesday afternoon.

Earlier on the day, Hasnat Abdullah, a key coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement, lambasted Awami League and the entities that are trying to rehabilitate them.

In a Facebook post, he said any desire to attain power by stepping on the youth’s blood and turning New Delhi into the qibla (direction of prayer or loyalty) means betraying the people’s aspiration for freedom.

“Those who will take initiatives to rehabilitate Awami League, history will identify them as public enemies,” he wrote.

He further said those who uphold the spirit of the July uprising and aim to represent the people’s aspirations must unequivocally demand trial for the Awami League in post-2024 Bangladesh, and there should be no different statements.

On the previous day, youth and sports adviser Asif Mahmud echoed similar sentiments while speaking at a discussion.

“When we, on behalf of the government, talk about banning the Awami League, political parties try to hinder the attempt through their speeches. As the Nazi Party was banned in Germany in 1945 and still remains so, it should be a precedent to understand the fate of the Awami League,” he said.​

 

[Saif]

Elected govt needed to revive economy

The sooner the country returns to a democratic process, the better it is for the economy, said top industrialist Ahsan Khan Chowdhury.

www.thedailystar.net

Elected govt needed to revive economy
Says Pran-RFL Group chief Ahsan Khan Chowdhury

The sooner the country returns to a democratic process, the better it is for the economy, said top industrialist Ahsan Khan Chowdhury.

"Businesses will do better [under an elected government]," Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, chairman and chief executive director of PRAN-RFL Group, told The Daily Star in an interview recently.

Pran-RFL wants to invest and expand its business but the sprawling conglomerate, whose turnover is to the tune of Tk 30,000 crore, cannot do so without a stable political and economic environment.

"Because, the political and economic situation highly influences such plans. If there is hartal here today or worsening law and order, I cannot do anything even if I want."

Unrest among people will subside under a democratically elected government.

"If we can do so and create a mentality of constructive discussion, our country will advance fast," said Chowdhury, who employs about 145,000 people.

He urged policymakers to improve the law and order situation so that normal business and economic activities run smoothly.

Chowdhury, however, said the interim government must succeed if the country is to move forward.

If the law and order situation returns to normal, entrepreneurs will be able to pay attention to their businesses and focus on investment and job creation needed to rejuvenate the economy, which has been facing headwinds for more than two years because of depleting foreign exchange reserves and high inflation.

Businesspeople should not run after politics, according to Chowdhury, who looks after 32 factories in Bangladesh.

"Let's not waste our time on politics and let the politicians do their job. For me, my business is my politics. My politics is how I can make PRAN-RFL the best company in the world. But political and economic situations influence my decision to do so."

To encourage investment, the government should make rules and procedures easy for investors to comply with, he said, citing the cumbersome process to get trade licences from city corporations and factory and environmental clearance from agencies.

"We need to change our total mindset. We will reap no benefit of establishing a one-stop service window unless we ease the business processes."

Bangladesh is competing with India, Vietnam and Cambodia for foreign investment, so the country needs a competitive edge. So the one-stop service window must be made world-class.

"You see industrialisation is taking place in Dubai even though they do not have any comparative advantage. They have made the business processes so easy that investors from Africa and Europe are going there. But we are failing to attract investors."

Bangladesh can become the best place for business if the processes are eased.

"We can advance quickly if our political mindset, business mindset, and bureaucrats are aligned together."

Employment generation should be the topmost national agenda, Chowdhury said, adding that the PRAN-RFL Group aims to create 100,000 additional employment by investing in the labour-intensive sectors, especially those that would exit from China.

"We have seen that footwear, bag making, small electric appliances and home appliances will be forced to leave China. Our job will be to see how we can take that opportunity."

Chowdhury lauded the role of the banking sector in supporting entrepreneurs.

Organisations such as PRAN-RFL Group might not have grown were it not for the funding from banks.

"Our banking sector has given birth to many entrepreneurs. When we talk about the creation of oligarchs, we should also remember that numerous entrepreneurs have been created because of this sector."

In the '90s, no bank other than the then-Bangladesh Shilpa Bank would provide loans to the industrial sector. Today, every bank finances industries.

"I think PRAN-RFL is the discovery of Bangladesh's banking sector. We have grown and repaid loans timely. No bank in Bangladesh can say it has dues to the PRAN-RFL. We have borrowed, repaid on time; and sought more loans from the banks for doing business and not for buying cars, homes or to siphon money abroad."​

 

[Saif]

Election timetable: perspectives, challenges, & opportunities

Dr Muhammad Yunus, the globally renowned Nobel Laureate and the head of Bangladesh’s interim government, recently delivered a historic speech commemorating the first 100 days of his administration. At the heart of his address was the contentious issue of the nation’s election timetable,

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Election timetable: perspectives, challenges, & opportunities
Serajul I Bhuiyan
Published :
Nov 21, 2024 00:45
Updated :
Nov 21, 2024 00:45

Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus addresses the nation to mark his interim administration’s 100th day in office on November 17 Photo : Agency

Dr Muhammad Yunus, the globally renowned Nobel Laureate and the head of Bangladesh’s interim government, recently delivered a historic speech commemorating the first 100 days of his administration. At the heart of his address was the contentious issue of the nation’s election timetable, a critical topic that has become the centerpiece of political discourse and public debate in Bangladesh.

With the nation standing at a decisive juncture in its political history, Yunus’ speech has drawn widespread attention for offering a roadmap aimed at diffusing tensions, fostering political consensus, and ensuring the path to free and transparent elections. While his vision has earned praise for its foresight, it has also sparked scepticism and debate, revealing divergent reactions from political factions, civil society, and the general public.

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of Yunus’ speech, assessing its core themes, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses, and presenting actionable recommendations to navigate the complexities of this pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s democratic journey.

Key highlights of Yunus’ speech: Commitment to electoral integrity. Yunus emphasized the interim government’s dedication to ensuring free, fair, and inclusive elections. He stressed that credible elections necessitate institutional reforms to eliminate vulnerabilities that have marred past electoral processes.

Proposal for timelines. Yunus proposed linking the election timetable to the completion of critical reforms, ensuring that elections are not rushed at the expense of transparency and credibility.

Inclusivity and dialogue. Acknowledging the importance of collective decision-making, Yunus called for inclusive dialogue with political parties, civil society, and other stakeholders to achieve national consensus.

Focus on institutional reforms. His speech highlighted ongoing efforts to depoliticize key state institutions such as the Election Commission, judiciary, and law enforcement agencies, with the aim of creating a level playing field for all political actors.

Strengths of THE speech: Emphasis on electoral integrity. Yunus’ focus on linking the election timetable to critical reforms underscores his commitment to ensuring that elections are not merely procedural but genuinely democratic. This approach resonates with civil society’s demand for substantive changes before elections are held.

Promotion of national consensus. The call for inclusivity and dialogue reflects an understanding of the need for collective decision-making in a polarized political landscape. By inviting all parties to participate, he demonstrated a willingness to foster unity and collaboration.

Strategic vision for long-term stability. The speech presented a long-term perspective, recognizing the systemic issues that have undermined previous elections. Yunus’ emphasis on reforms seeks to establish a sustainable democratic framework that prevents a recurrence of past political crises.

Restoration of public trust. The focus on transparency and impartiality is likely to resonate with a public disillusioned by years of electoral controversies and authoritarian governance, offering hope for a more credible political process.

Shortcomings of the speech

Lack of specific timelines. While Dr Yunus outlined broad reform objectives, the absence of specific deadlines or milestones left room for ambiguity, potentially undermining public confidence in the interim government’s intent and ability to deliver.

Insufficient emphasis on dialogue: Though he mentioned inclusivity, the speech lacked a concrete framework for engaging stakeholders in meaningful dialogue. A clearer roadmap for fostering consensus among political parties and civil society would have strengthened his vision.

Resistance from political parties. The speech did not adequately address the divergent positions of major political parties. For example, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) demands immediate elections, while Jamaat-e-Islami prioritizes reforms. These conflicting priorities require careful negotiation and compromise.

Public frustration with delays. A lack of tangible progress on key reforms risks alienating the public, particularly those eager for a return to normalcy through timely elections.

Public perspectives: To better understand public sentiment, a snap poll was conducted by this author with 50 respondents from diverse backgrounds, including professionals, students, civil society members, and the general public in Bangladesh and United States of America (USA). The survey captured a range of opinions on Dr Yunus’ speech and the broader political context. (See- Box)

Perspectives of political parties and civil society: Bangladesh’s political landscape is highly polarised, with significant divergence among key stakeholders regarding the election timetable and reform agenda. The views of major political parties, smaller parties, and civil society reflect varied priorities, ranging from immediate elections to comprehensive institutional reforms. Here is an expanded analysis of these perspectives:

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)

Position. The BNP has consistently maintained that immediate elections are imperative to restore democratic continuity. As the primary opposition party, the BNP believes that delaying elections undermines public confidence in governance and exacerbates political uncertainty.

Concerns. The BNP has expressed apprehension that a prolonged timeline for reforms might marginalize their political influence and allow the interim government to consolidate its power. This perception is particularly sensitive given the party’s recent history of strained participation in previous electoral processes. BNP leaders also fear that extended delays could diminish the urgency of addressing electoral irregularities and hinder their ability to mobilize grassroots support.

Recommendation. To address the BNP’s concerns, the interim government should establish a clear and binding election timetable with transparent milestones for reforms. This would reassure the BNP that the interim government is not attempting to extend its tenure indefinitely. Visible progress in reforming the Election Commission, updating voter rolls, and ensuring impartial law enforcement could help build trust and facilitate their participation in the democratic process.

Jamaat-e-Islami

Position. Jamaat-e-Islami has advocated for reforms to take precedence over elections, emphasizing that without comprehensive changes, the electoral process risks repeating the same systemic flaws seen in previous elections. Their position reflects a cautious and methodical approach, prioritiaing the integrity of the process over its speed.

Concerns. Jamaat fears that a rushed election could compromise its credibility, perpetuating existing issues such as voter fraud, political interference, and biased administration. These concerns are particularly acute given the party’s diminished political leverage and historical challenges in contesting elections under fair conditions.

Recommendation. To address Jamaat’s reservations, the interim government should consider forming a bipartisan reform oversight committee. This body, comprising representatives from all major political parties, civil society, and independent experts, could monitor and evaluate the progress of reforms, ensuring transparency and inclusivity. By actively involving Jamaat in the reform process, the government can foster trust and demonstrate its commitment to creating a fair and level playing field for all political actors.

Smaller Parties and Civil Society

Position. Smaller political parties and civil society groups generally support the interim government’s reform agenda. They view systemic reforms as critical to ensuring free and fair elections, and many have lauded Dr. Yunus’ emphasis on depoliticizing key institutions. However, they also stress the importance of inclusivity in the reform process to reflect the diverse interests of Bangladesh’s population.

Concerns. Smaller parties often fear being overshadowed by dominant political actors like the Awami League or BNP in shaping electoral policies. Civil society groups, meanwhile, are concerned about the lack of mechanisms to ensure that reforms are implemented transparently and equitably. These stakeholders worry that without meaningful engagement, their voices may be sidelined in the broader political discourse.

Recommendation. To address these concerns, the interim government should prioritise greater inclusivity and representation in decision-making processes. Establishing consultative forums where smaller parties and civil society organizations can actively contribute to discussions on reforms would enhance the legitimacy of the interim government’s efforts. Furthermore, ensuring proportional representation in electoral oversight committees can provide a platform for diverse perspectives and build consensus on critical issues.

Collective insights: The perspectives of political parties and civil society reveal the complexity of navigating Bangladesh’s political terrain. While the BNP demands urgency, Jamaat advocates caution, and smaller parties emphasize inclusivity, their shared concern is the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.

The interim government, under Dr. Yunus’ leadership, must strike a delicate balance by addressing these concerns while adhering to its reform agenda. Proactive communication, visible progress, and inclusive policymaking are essential to bridging these divides and fostering a unified path toward democratic restoration.

By engaging all stakeholders in constructive dialogue and demonstrating its commitment to credible reforms, the interim government has an opportunity to lay the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive democratic system in Bangladesh.

Public sentiments on Dr. Yunus’ leadership: Respondents widely praised Dr. Yunus for his integrity, global reputation, and commitment to reforms. Many view him as a transformative leader capable of addressing Bangladesh’s deep-seated political and institutional challenges. However, some expressed impatience with the interim government’s pace, emphasizing the need for tangible progress.

A general citizen remarked:

“Dr. Yunus is a leader of exceptional integrity. We believe in his vision, but the interim government must act faster to prove its commitment to meaningful reforms.”

This survey highlights a public deeply invested in the nation’s democratic future. While Dr. Yunus’ speech and interim government enjoy mixt support, citizens demand tangible progress and greater inclusivity in decision-making. Reform is necessary for a strong democracy and stop returning autocracy and fascism in the future. These insights underscore the importance of balancing immediate political pressures with the long-term need for systemic reform.

For many, the interim government’s inability to set definitive deadlines has heightened political uncertainty, leaving citizens anxious about the future. These individuals argue that immediate elections are necessary to restore a sense of normalcy and democratic continuity. They believe that delaying elections risks undermining public confidence in the interim government’s intent and credibility, as well as exacerbating social unrest in an already polarized environment.

A young entrepreneur from Dhaka shared, “The country cannot afford to remain in limbo. People need an elected government to address the economic challenges we are facing. Every day of delay makes things worse for ordinary citizens.”

A senior banker expressed concern over the persistent rise in commodity prices, noting that while the government is making efforts to control the situation, continued inflation could erode public support and trust in the administration. He also emphasized the need for prioritization, citing the agitation by Titumir College students demanding university status as an example of a non-urgent issue. ‘Such demands, while important in the long term, should not overshadow critical national priorities. The government must address these protests firmly to maintain focus on urgent and impactful reforms,’ he remarked.

A distinguished trustee board member of a leading private university remarked on Yunus’s unparalleled international stature, emphasising that his position provides a unique opportunity to bring those responsible for extrajudicial killings and disappearances to justice. “Dr. Yunus must be allowed to complete the tribunal process to ensure that these criminals face accountability. Political parties should exercise patience and support his efforts to reform the system and prosecute collaborators of the fascist regime,’ he stated. The trustee also reflected on Yunus’s personal sacrifices, noting, ‘He is perhaps losing more as Chief Advisor compared to his thriving international role in advancing social business and global thought leadership. Yet, his dedication to Bangladesh’s democratic and judicial reforms speaks volumes of his commitment to the nation.’

Recommendations for the way forward

Establish a binding timeline. Set specific deadlines for reforms and elections to build public confidence and counter accusations of delay tactics.

Foster inclusive dialogue. Engage all stakeholders — including political parties, civil society, and marginalized groups — in a structured dialogue to build consensus and ensure reforms reflect diverse perspectives.

Demonstrate tangible progress. Implement quick wins, such as restructuring the Election Commission and depoliticizing law enforcement, to signal sincerity and build momentum.

Enhance public communication. Provide regular updates on reform progress through transparent and accessible channels, maintaining public trust and engagement. A proactive and dynamic press secretary is needed at this moment to communicate government messages on reforms and actions, steps on different sectors.

Leverage Technology for Transparency. Utilise digital tools for voter registration, election monitoring, and public feedback to enhance transparency and reduce inefficiencies.

Involve international experts. Seek neutral international organizations to mediate political disagreements and lend credibility to the reform process.

Reshuffle advisors. A prevailing perception among the public is that while several advisors within the interim government are well-meaning individuals and experts in their respective fields, they are not meeting the expectations required for ministerial responsibilities. To address this, there is a growing call for replacing underperforming advisors with individuals who embody youthful energy, dynamism, and a fresh perspective.

The ideal replacements should not be drawn from NGO backgrounds, nor should they be long-retired loyalists or individuals affiliated with previous governments. Instead, the focus should be on appointing capable professionals who can bring innovative solutions and a non-partisan approach to the government’s reform agenda. This reshuffle would strengthen public confidence in the interim administration and inject much-needed vigor into its operations.

A pivotal moment for Bangladesh: Yunus’ speech marks a critical turning point in Bangladesh’s democratic journey. While his vision reflects a thoughtful balance between immediate political pressures and long-term reform needs, its success depends on effective implementation, transparent communication, and sustained public trust.

The interim government faces the challenge of balancing the urgency for elections with the necessity of systemic reforms. By fostering consensus, demonstrating tangible progress, and engaging citizens, Yunus and his administration can navigate this period with integrity and purpose.

As Bangladesh stands at this historic crossroads,. Yunus’ leadership offers a rare opportunity to build a more inclusive, accountable, and resilient democracy. The path forward requires collaboration, patience, and an unwavering commitment to democratic ideals, paving the way for a brighter future for all Bangladeshis.

Dr. Serajul I. Bhuiyan is a professor and former chair of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communications at Savannah State University in Georgia.​

 

[Saif]

Election Commission must pave the way for fair polls

The electoral process finally begins amid huge expectations

www.thedailystar.net

Election Commission must pave the way for fair polls
The electoral process finally begins amid huge expectations

VISUAL: STAR

We welcome the formation of the new Election Commission headed by former health and energy secretary AMM Nasir Uddin. With this, the "train to the election"—as termed by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus—has indeed started rolling. While this is just the first step in what promises to be a lengthy journey, it is a momentous one for a nation emerging from the long shadow of fascism. The announcement about the five-member commission, which will be sworn in on Sunday, seemed imminent following the chief adviser's address marking 100 days of the interim government. In the coming days, this moment will serve as a reference point for what follows, and we hope it will be for all the right reasons.

One doesn't need reminding of the immense expectations and challenges facing the new commission. The stakes are high, especially after more than 15 years of autocratic rule by the Awami League regime that systematically disenfranchised citizens, but also because of the enormous sacrifices that went into ousting it. During the July-August uprising, around 1,500 people lost their lives, while nearly 20,000 were injured, many critically. Their demand for democratic rights free from discrimination—underpinned by a fair and credible election—is a mandate that the commission must fulfil. There is optimism that it will not repeat the mistakes of its predecessors, but it must remain vigilant at all times given today's polarised sociopolitical climate.

An election alone will not solve all our problems, however. This is why the chief adviser's emphasis on implementing some essential reforms prior to the election, leaving the rest to a democratically elected government, resonates so strongly. For now, we must keep our eyes on the process—the journey rather than the destination—and that, for the Election Commission, begins with laying down the tracks for necessary electoral reforms. BNP and other parties are calling for an election roadmap which will be issued once decisions on the electoral reforms are made. A commission is currently working on that, and will likely submit its reports between December and January. There is a democratic process in place to finalise the agenda, which we hope will lead to an electoral framework that is not only fair but also perceived as such by all political parties and the public alike.

We look to the Election Commission to ensure that the upcoming election, whenever it is held, genuinely reflects the will of the people. Anything less would—to echo the chief election commissioner—betray the sacrifices of all those who gave their lives in the mass uprising. The authorities must not fail them.​

 

[Saif]

New Election Commission formed with former secy AMM Nasir Uddin as CEC

President Mohammed Shahabuddin also appointed four commissioners

www.thedailystar.net

New Election Commission formed with former secy AMM Nasir Uddin as CEC

A new election commission has been formed, headed by former secretary the Ministry of Health and Family Planning AMM Nasir Uddin.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin also appointed four commissioners — retired additional secretary Anwarul Islam Sarkar, retired district and sessions judge Abdur Rahmanel Masud, retired joint secretary Begum Tahmida Ahmed, and Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah.

The Cabinet Division has issued a gazette notification in this regard.

On October 29, the interim government formed a six-member search committee to recommend the names of the new chief election Commissioner (CEC) and other commissioners to the president for appointment.

Nasir was also former information and energy secretary and member of Planning Commission.

BNP and several others parties proposed Nasir and former secretary Shafiqul Islam as the CEC to the search committee.

On September 5, the immediate past Election Commission, led by Kazi Habibul Awal, resigned midway through its five-year tenure. This commission had been sworn in on February 27, 2022.

They resigned one month after Awami League government was ousted on August 5 following a student-led uprising.

The EC has been vacant for more than two and half months, the longest period of vacancy in the history of Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Newly appointed CEC, commissioners likely to take oath Sunday

The newly appointed chief election commissioner AMM Md Nasir Uddin and four other commissioners are likely to take oaths on Sunday.

www.newagebd.net

Newly appointed CEC, commissioners likely to take oath Sunday
Staff Correspondent 22 November, 2024, 12:58

New CEC AMM Md Nasir Uddin | Collected photo

The newly appointed chief election commissioner AMM Md Nasir Uddin and four other commissioners are likely to take oaths on Sunday.

The oath-taking ceremony is likely to be held at 1:30pm on Sunday, said Shafiqul Islam, the public relations officer of the Supreme Court.

Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed is scheduled to administer the swearing-in ceremony, he added.

The other four commissioners are former additional secretary Md Anwarul Islam Sarker, former district and sessions judge Abdur Rahmanel Masud, former joint secretary Tahmida Ahmed, and retired brigadier general Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah.

President Muhammed Shahabuddin on Thursday appointed the CEC and four other election commissioners, a day after the EC search committee submitted the shortlist containing 10 names for those posts.

The new Election Commission tasked with the holding of the 13th parliamentary elections has been constituted on the basis of the recommendations of a six-member search committee.

The government, on October 29, formed the search committee led by Appellate Division judge, Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury.

On September 5, the then CEC Kazi Habibul Awal and all the four election commissioners – Ahsan Habib Khan, Rashida Sultana, Md Alamgir, and Anisur Rahman –resigned.

Their resignation came a month after the fall of the Awami League regime amid an unprecedented student-people uprising.

On August 6, the president dissolved the 12th parliament, which was formed through the January 7 one-sided election conducted by the Awal-led election commission.​

 

[Saif]

61pc want polls within a year, 65.9pc prefer reforms first

More than three out of every five (61.1 percent) Bangladeshis said they wanted elections within a year, while almost 66 percent said they wanted necessary reforms before the elections, as per a survey by the Voice of America’s Bangla service.

www.thedailystar.net

61pc want polls within a year, 65.9pc prefer reforms first
Reveals VOA survey

More than three out of every five (61.1 percent) Bangladeshis said they wanted elections within a year, while almost 66 percent said they wanted necessary reforms before the elections, as per a survey by the Voice of America's Bangla service.

Most of the respondents who prioritised reforms before elections were lenient with the election deadline, but some of them said they still prefer elections within a year, reports UNB citing VoA.

The survey was conducted across Bangladesh and included 1,000 participants during October 13-27.

Diverse opinions on election timing

While a majority prefer elections within a year, 31.9 percent favour elections only after urgent electoral reforms are implemented.

Meanwhile, 18.7 percent prefer elections within two and three years, and 8.6 percent believe polls should happen within 18 months. A minority of 5.8 percent want the elections postponed for four years or more.

Interestingly, 4.6 percent respondents did not have a specific preference for an election deadline, while 1.1 percent declined to answer.

The survey highlighted slight variations in preferences between urban and rural populations, with 60.4 percent urban respondents and 61.4 percent rural participants supporting elections within a year.

Gender differences were also evident, as 65 percent women preferred elections within a year compared to 57.3 percent men.

Support for comprehensive reforms

A vast majority (65.9 percent) of respondents believe all necessary reforms identified by the interim government should be completed before the election.

Among these reforms, key areas of focus include election commission (for 96.5 percent), police (for 92.3 percent), judicial (for 95.3 percent), economic sector (for 96.4 percent), and constitutional reforms (for 92.5 percent).

Only 31.9 percent respondents supported elections after addressing urgent election-related reforms.

Perception of the interim government's performance

The survey assessed public perception of the Yunus-led interim government. It found that 58.4 percent believe the interim government was performing better than its predecessor, while 40.5 percent think it is performing similar or worse.

Among those critical of the incumbent government, 20.4 percent consider its governance worse and 20.1 percent think it is similar to the Awami League administration.

Urban residents (61.9 percent) and men (62 percent) were more likely to rate the interim government's performance favourably than their rural counterparts (57.3 percent) and women (54.8 percent).

Public safety and law enforcement

Regarding law and order, 63.2 percent said the interim government is managing security better than AL. However, opinions on personal safety were evenly divided with 49.8 percent saying they felt safer under the interim government. But 49.9 percent believed their safety had either declined or remained the same.

It is worth noting that the survey has a margin of error of 3.1 percent. Additionally, as the respondents provided their opinions nearly a month ago, the results may differ if the survey were conducted today.​

 

[Saif]

How the new election commission will handle political parties

There was a meeting between the election system reform commission and editors and senior journalists on Thursday. As soon as I went to the election commission building in the morning, I encountered a blockade on Rokeya Sarani.

en.prothomalo.com

How the new election commission will handle political parties
Sohrab Hassan
Updated: 23 Nov 2024, 22: 28

There was a meeting between the election system reform commission and editors and senior journalists on Thursday. As soon as I went to the election commission building in the morning, I encountered a blockade on Rokeya Sarani. Following the order to ban battery-run rickshaws by the High Court in three days, the drivers had blocked the road. Their argument was that if their vehicles were suddenly banned without providing alternative work options, they would starve to death.

Although the government has undertaken reform initiatives in various state affairs including the electoral system, it seems it is not thinking about these working people and their employment. The government has declared that battery-run rickshaws will not be allowed on main roads but can still operate in alleys. At the same time, they are saying they won't be allowed anywhere at all. In Dhaka, there are at least 600,000 battery-powered rickshaws. Many people have bought these rickshaws on loans. If they can no longer operate their rickshaws, how will they repay their loans?

I heard a government official on TV saying, "After the court's order, we have nothing to do." I want to remind him not to show excuses by citing the court orders every time. The court also declared the government's decision to abolish the Awami League’s job quotas in public service illegal. I’m sure he is aware of what happened afterward. The point is, the government cannot ban battery-operated rickshaws without offering alternative means of income for the drivers. There is no law that overrides the hunger of the people.

Badiul Alam Majumdar, the head of the election system reform commission, has been working on elections for three decades. When he campaigned for honest and competent candidates during the BNP era, the ruling party labeled him as an ally of the Awami League. And when he criticised the three controversial elections held under the Awami League, they called him an 'enemy of the people.' This is our political culture.

During the discussions with the commission, the role of the administration and law enforcement in elections, the character of elected governments and political parties, and other related issues were raised. Power-hungry politicians are not used to seeing themselves outside of power. It is often claimed that four elections were fair under the caretaker government system (1991, 1996, 2001, 2008). However, the defeated parties did not accept the people's verdict and searched for subtle and gross irregularities in those elections. In the last three elections, people were not even able to vote.

The ruling party has always tried to monopolize everything. On the other hand, the opposition party has sought liberation through boycotting parliament and street movements. As a result, in the last 53 years, the democratic system has failed to sustain itself. Every elected government has become authoritarian—some to a lesser degree, others to a greater extent.

Thus, the problem is not just with elections but with the political culture itself. Everyone in the discussion with the commission agreed that the caretaker system must be reinstated for fair elections. The upcoming 13th parliamentary elections will take place under the current interim government. However, to hold future elections under a caretaker government, new laws must be passed, and this responsibility should be taken on by the next elected government.

The topic of inclusive elections was also discussed. No one wants to see elections like the ones held under Sheikh Hasina's rule, where the opposition was excluded from the electoral process.

The discussants suggested bringing all ministries involved in elections, such as the home ministry and the public administration ministry under the election commission’s control during elections. Many countries have examples of this system. It remains to be seen whether the new commission can implement this.

They also suggested taking action against parties and individuals who violate the code of conduct before the election and, if necessary, canceling their candidature. Any government officials who engage in irregularities or corruption during elections should be punished.

In the 2008 elections, the commission introduced a 'no' vote option, but the Awami League government abolished it. Now, most journalists and commission members are calling for the reintroduction of the 'no' vote.
Previously, police, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), alongside the armed forces, were involved in maintaining law and order. The Awami League changed the law to keep them as auxiliary forces, but it is crucial to revert to the old system. Journalists also emphasized that their professional duties should not be obstructed under any circumstances.

During the discussion with the commission, news came in that a new election commission had been formed, with former secretary AMM Nasir Uddin as its head. In his immediate response, he vowed to ensure people's voting rights, stating, "Since 2014, people have been unable to vote. Many people lost their lives during the July-August protests, and the main issue of that movement was securing voting rights. It is impossible to betray the blood of so many people."

The new commission faces significant challenges, but in the changed circumstances, they might find a more favourable environment. The Election System Reform Commission is expected to make their work easier. This will be the first national election under a non-partisan government since 2008. The interim government will not vote itself, so they will not exert pressure on the administration, law enforcement, or other responsible officials.

However, the new commission will face pressure from rival political parties. Everyone will try to align the commission with their own interests. Parties that were once allies in the anti-Awami League-government movement will now compete in the elections. This will likely create some instability in the electoral campaign, which the election commission must manage effectively.

In the last three elections, the commission was fully subservient to the ruling party. The commission worked according to the government’s wishes, and even when some members wanted to act according to their conscience, they ultimately failed. In some cases, where the voting was so low that people could see an empty polling field, the results showed 40 per cent or more voter turnout.

Restoring the trust of voters will be a difficult task for the new commission. It is hoped that the interim government and the election commission will work together to ensure a free and fair election. However, gaining the trust of political leaders and maintaining balance among rival parties will not be easy.

The tendency of public administration and law enforcement will lean in whichever direction the political wind blows. If it becomes clear before the election who will win, then the entire state apparatus, including the administration and police, may work in their favour.

The new chief election commissioner has promised to secure people's voting rights, but we believe this will only be possible if the election is competitive and contested. Alongside voting rights, there must also be open opportunities for choosing candidates.

*Sohrab Hassan is the joint editor at Prothom Alo and a poet​

 

[Saif]

Acceptable polls after reforms: CEC

Newly sworn-in chief election commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Sunday vowed to organise a free, fair, impartial and acceptable election soon after completing some reforms.

www.newagebd.net

Acceptable polls after reforms: CEC
Staff Correspondent 24 November, 2024, 16:46

Chief election commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin. | UNB Photo

Newly sworn-in chief election commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Sunday vowed to organise a free, fair, impartial and acceptable election soon after completing some reforms.

The pledge came in response to questions from journalists following the oath taking ceremony of the chief election commissioner and four election commissioners at the Judges’ Lounge of the Supreme Court on the day.

‘I see this responsibility as a great opportunity in my life. The people of the country are disenfranchised. They fought hard for a free and fair election. Many movements have taken place over the years and many have given blood. I am committed to giving them a free, fair and acceptable election and I will do my best to do so,’ he said.

‘I am confident that I can do it. I have a very strong team in the Election Commission. We will give this nation a beautiful election with the cooperation from the country’s people and political parties,’ he said.

In answer to the question whether the election would be held before the reforms, he said, ‘Reform is an ongoing process, but if we want to hold elections, some necessary reforms will be needed.’

‘If we want to hold elections, we have to include the young generation, who are looking forward to vote year after year, in our voter list. Some reforms are also necessary, which are hopeful to carry out very soon as a reform commission is already working,’ he added.

Stating that the election would be organised with participation from the political parties, he said, ‘You [people and political parties] rest assured. Our intentions are fair and we want the political parties which have been fighting for 15–16 years to get back the right to vote with us. We will cooperate in implementing their demand. We are committed to the nation.’

When asked how long it would take to carry out reforms and organise elections, he said, ‘We cannot say anything now with the timing. First I have to understand the responsibilities.’

Earlier, newly-appointed CEC Nasir Uddin and four election commissioners Md Anwarul Islam Sarker, Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Begum Tahmida Ahmad, and former brigadier general Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah took oath at the Supreme Court.

Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed administered the oath of office to the chief election commissioner and election commissioners, while Supreme Court registrar general Aziz Ahmed Bhuiyan conducted the function.

Judges of the Appellate Division, members of the Election Commission Search Committee, officials of the Election Commission and employees of the Supreme Court Registrar General office, among others, were present.

On November 21, president Mohammed Shahabuddin appointed former secretary Nasir Uddin as the new CEC and four others as election commissioners.

The Cabinet Division issued separate gazette notifications to this end on that day.

The new Election Commission has been constituted on the basis of the recommendations of the six-member search committee.

Earlier on September 5, then chief election commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal and all four election commissioners, Ahsan Habib Khan, Rashida Sultana, Md Alamgir and Anisur Rahman, resigned.

Their resignation came a month after Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled to India on August 5 amid an unprecedented student-people uprising, ending the 15-year Awami League regime.

On August 6, the president dissolved the 12th parliament which was formed through the January 7 one-sided election conducted by the Awal-led election commission.

Before the resignation, Awal at a press briefing said that they were resigning from their posts due to the country’s changed scenario.

He said that holding an election was a very difficult task, and all the blames or responsibilities for an unacceptable election had always been heaped upon solely on the Election Commission.

The Awal commission organised the 12th parliamentary polls amid a large-scale boycott by opposition parties and voters. Drawing harsh criticisms, the polls were called a ‘dummy election’ as Awami League’s officially announced candidates contested against own party people who stood as independent candidates in most constituencies.​

 

[Saif]

Everyone has agreed on caretaker government system, says Badiul

All agreed on caretaker govt system: Badiul The Electoral Reform Commission chief Badiul Alam Majumdar has hinted at reviving the caretaker government system, which was abolished a decade ago. After a meeting with representatives from civil society on Sunday, he said: “What is clear from th

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Everyone has agreed on caretaker government system, says Badiul
bdnews24.com
Published :
Nov 24, 2024 22:40
Updated :
Nov 24, 2024 22:40

All agreed on caretaker govt system: Badiul

The Electoral Reform Commission chief Badiul Alam Majumdar has hinted at reviving the caretaker government system, which was abolished a decade ago.

After a meeting with representatives from civil society on Sunday, he said: “What is clear from this discussion is that everyone has agreed on the caretaker government system. The Election Commission must be made independent, strengthened, and particularly given financial autonomy.”

Badiul added, “The Election Commission must become another government under the government – in this way, they will become stronger.”

In 1996, the BNP government, under pressure from opposition movements led by the Awami League, passed the 13th constitutional amendment in parliament, establishing the caretaker government system.

Later, when the Awami League returned to power, the hearing of the 13th Amendment case began in the Appellate Division on Mar 1, 2010. In the hearing, the top eight lawyers also presented arguments as amici curiae, in addition to the appellant and the state party.

They expressed support for maintaining the caretaker government system. Even the then attorney general Mahbubey Alam voiced his support for it.

On May 10, 2011, a full bench of seven judges in the Appellate Division, based on a majority opinion, annulled the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. At the time, the chief justice was ABM Khairul Haque.

Before the full verdict was published, the 15th Amendment to the Constitution was passed in the parliament on Jun 30, 2011, and the president approved it on Jul 3.

This amendment abolished the caretaker government system and granted constitutional recognition to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the Father of the Nation.

After the fall of the Awami League government, Badiul, along with four others, filed a writ petition in August seeking the repeal of the 15th Amendment.

In the same month, Badiul and the other petitioners also filed a review petition with the Appellate Division, seeking a reconsideration of the verdict that had annulled the 13th Amendment. Later, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also submitted a similar petition.

On Oct 3, the interim government formed an eight-strong reform commission, headed by Badiul, the general secretary of Shushasoner Jonno Nagorik, or SHUJAN, with the aim of reforming the existing electoral system. The commission is expected to submit its recommendations within 90 days.

“The past election commissions, which conducted disgraceful or rigged elections, broke their oath and violated the Constitution. Everyone has called for holding them accountable,” Badiul said at the Election Commission building on Sunday.

He added, “The people who attended [on Sunday] are highly experienced researchers. We had an open discussion with them.”

Badiul said, “All those who came from civil society have advocated for the reintroduction of the ‘no’ vote provision. They have called for the establishment of democracy within political parties. Without democracy within political parties, democracy cannot be achieved in the country.”

“There was also a discussion on the presidential election. The idea of strengthening the position of the president was also raised,” he concluded.​

 

[Saif]

Citizens’ Committee rejects new Election Commission

The National Citizens’ Committee on Friday rejected the newly formed Election Commission, terming its formation as 'akin to the betrayal with the spirit of the mass uprising'. The formation of this commission is 'akin to the betrayal with the spirit of the mass uprising' because it was done

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Citizens’ Committee rejects new Election Commission
FE Online Desk
Published :
Nov 24, 2024 23:11
Updated :
Nov 24, 2024 23:11

The National Citizens’ Committee on Friday rejected the newly formed Election Commission, terming its formation as 'akin to the betrayal with the spirit of the mass uprising'.

The formation of this commission is 'akin to the betrayal with the spirit of the mass uprising' because it was done under a law enacted during the ousted Awami League government, the committee said at a press conference at its Rupayan Trade Centre office in Dhaka.

It added that the interim government had constituted the new Election Commission by yielding to the pressure from political parties.

Earlier Friday, the newly appointed Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, a retired secretary, and four commissioners took oath.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin had appointed them a day earlier, acting on recommendations from the Search Committee.​

 

[Saif]

Election would be held once reform works become visible: Mahfuj Alam

The interim government’s adviser, Mahfuj Alam, said on Thursday the much-desired national election would be held once the reform works become visible. He made remarks while responding to a question at a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the evening. Environment, Forest and Cl

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Election would be held once reform works become visible: Mahfuj Alam
UNB
Published :
Nov 28, 2024 21:23
Updated :
Nov 28, 2024 21:23

The interim government’s adviser, Mahfuj Alam, said on Thursday the much-desired national election would be held once the reform works become visible.

He made remarks while responding to a question at a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the evening.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, who was present at the briefing, said, the election is the ultimate goal and the government wants the election after necessary reforms as soon as possible.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam was also present.

Rizwana Hasan said there has been no discussion at the meeting of the Council of Advisers regarding banning any organisation as they differentiate the responsibility of an organisation and an individual.​

 

[Saif]

How election can be a tool of accountability

Bangladesh's electoral system must be reformed carefully.

www.thedailystar.net

How election can be a tool of accountability

FILE VISUAL: ALIZA RAHMAN

The purpose of a "free" and "fair" election is to ensure accountability of those participating in it. In the past, parties in Bangladesh won elections with around one-third of the votes cast, while a third of the constituencies were won with around 30 percent of the votes cast. The problem lies in putting the emphasis on the election, not its purpose. Hence, the electoral system must be reformed carefully.

Among the three commonly used methods of determining the outcomes of legislative elections—plurality, majority, and proportional representation—the third one seems to be most effective. A study of elections in Muslim-majority countries reveal that the re-democratisation in Indonesia has been peaceful and uninterrupted since 1997 because of the proportional representation system in its parliament; the parties must cooperate to get any bill passed, becoming a "check" on one another.

In a proportional representation voting system, votes are cast for the parties, either in an open or a closed list system. The voters can give preference to a particular candidate in the former system, but not in the latter. An individual or a party must get a minimum threshold of votes to enter the legislature (e.g. one percent for individuals, two to seven percent for a single party, 5-10 percent for a coalition of two registered parties, 15 percent for a coalition of three parties and above, etc).

Proportional representation has many benefits. With seats in the chamber and in the committees proportional to the votes, as evident in other countries, each party must cooperate for the future. Most importantly, because of the list system, especially when closed, only the best from all parties are likely to be elected. Furthermore, the best female candidates listed by all parties will have an equal chance to win (because the campaigns would be collective, not personal).

This system may also create women's equal access to the parliament. The laws in other countries require listing of women in the party list (even at the top at a defined percentage). Women's winning chances are doubly protected in a closed list system.

It may also prevent "one-person" parties from claiming to be "people's" parties or issuing threats against every government policy. In 2001, 77 percent of the total candidates got their deposit money forfeited for not getting the minimum 12.5 percent of votes. In fact, 27 political parties received fewer than 1,000 votes each. The minimum threshold requirement to enter the parliament in the proportional system would force the parties to join hands to prepare the list prioritising the candidates most likely to secure the maximum number of votes. It may also prevent over-representation and the loss of the voice of the unheard. It would also infuse voter enthusiasm because every vote would count, reducing the risk of polarisation or marginalisation and increasing cooperation, respect and a sense of national responsibility. It is also likely to curb the vote-rigging tendency because a few polling stations will not influence the outcome of one candidate.

A simple calculation shows that with the total numbers of votes polled, in a proportional system, the Awami League and BNP would have won 143 and 146 parliamentary seats (including the reserve seats) in 2001, and 182 and 123 seats (including the reserve seats) in 2008, respectively.

However, a reformed electoral system may bring the desired political effects only with an accountable, independent, and honest Election Commission that is adequately funded and staffed to regulate the political parties and election candidacy. A survey of dozens of constitutions shows that many countries, because of having political will and experience, have provisions that the constitution of a political party must have a time limit for executive positions (including the party presidency), and restrictions on directly inheriting party presidency (or senior executive positions). Moreover, a political party or group should not be able to participate in an election if it has been disrespectful to the country and its constitution, or has to leave the government under political compulsion (before completing its tenure in office).

Eligibility of election candidacy includes, among others, loyalty to and residency in the country, high moral standing, financial credibility, distance from criminal activity, and so on. Disqualification for election candidacy includes, among others, involvement in financial crime or in acts and ideas against the interest of the country, among others.

The reformed electoral system should focus on making the election beneficial to the voters, not the party, and the election candidacy laws should promote inclusion of the best persons in every party candidate list. Rule of law begins with laws, not arbitrary rules, and would save the government from making arbitrary decisions regarding the elections.

Dr Samiul Hasan is an academic with interests in human security issues in Muslim-majority countries.​

 

[Saif]

Election roadmap to thwart all conspiracies: BNP

Once the roadmap for the next national election is announced, no one would dare to conspire anymore against Bangladesh, BNP told the interim government on Wednesday. “We have told (the government) to implement a reform agenda very quickly and announce a roadmap for the election. If people ge

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Election roadmap to thwart all conspiracies: BNP
UNB
Published :
Dec 04, 2024 21:33
Updated :
Dec 04, 2024 21:33

Once the roadmap for the next national election is announced, no one would dare to conspire anymore against Bangladesh, BNP told the interim government on Wednesday.

“We have told (the government) to implement a reform agenda very quickly and announce a roadmap for the election. If people get the roadmap and become election-oriented, no one will dare to hatch conspiracies that you are seeing now,” said BNP standing committee member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain.

He was talking to reporters after a meeting between Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus and representatives from different political parties including BNP and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital.

Mosharraf said the responsibility of this interim government is to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty, and establish democracy.

He mentioned that everyone at the meeting said that they are unanimously against the conspiracies being hatched by the fallen government against the country from abroad.

“The fascist government was ousted through the July-August mass uprising. We all together—the students and people of this country—will also confront their conspiracies,” he said.

A five-member BNP delegation, led by Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, joined the meeting. The four others were Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Nazrul Islam Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Dr AZM Zahid Hossain.

Mosharraf said the chief adviser held talks with political parties to seek cooperation in protecting the existence of Bangladesh as different political and social issues are created here from a neighbouring country.​

 

[Saif]

BNP reveals 10-point proposal for electoral reforms

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Monday called for adopting the latest technology in the task to update the voter list, instead of the traditional door-to-door campaigning ahead of the 12th national parliament election...

www.newagebd.net

BNP reveals 10-point proposal for electoral reforms
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka 09 December, 2024, 21:34

Representational image | Collected photo

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Monday called for adopting the latest technology in the task to update the voter list, instead of the traditional door-to-door campaigning ahead of the 12th national parliament election.

‘We want a true and accurate voter list to be prepared. Instead of a door-to-door campaign, we propose using computing, and AI [artificial intelligence] to do the job,’ BNP standing committee member Abdul Moyeen Khan said at a press conference.

BNP’s committee on election commission arranged the press conference at the party chairperson’s Gulshan office in Dhaka.

Moyeen said that if a computerised upgraded system could be adopted, it would help update the voter list accurately without wasting time. ‘A computerised system can easily identify when someone turns 18 and automatically remove the names of those who have passed away. There’s no need for a door-to-door campaign to update the voter list by checking all 18 crore people of Bangladesh.’

The BNP leader also presented a 10-point reform proposal, including amending the RPO, some rules in election management, revising the code of conduct for political parties and candidates, changes to the policy for the registration of political parties, upgrading the election observation policy, increasing the capacity of the election commission, and a separate electoral code of conduct for the media.

He said that they had already submitted those reform proposals to the government-formed election reform commission. ‘We prepared reform proposals aiming to create a level playing field so that people can truly cast their votes and elect their real representatives, not dummy or fake representatives.’

Another BNP standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan said that the government could arrange the national election quickly by implementing the proposals their party had made.

‘We have talked about strengthening the election commission, setting up an election secretariat, and giving them sufficient powers. We also proposed amending and reforming the existing laws... These do not require much time,’ he said.

BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed suggested that it should not take more than three or four months to arrange the election by carrying out the necessary reforms related to the election process.​

 

[Saif]

CA’s polls announcement: BNP seeks specifics, Jamaat okay to wait

BNP leaders welcomed Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’s announcement on the timeline of national elections but urged a clear and actionable roadmap.

www.thedailystar.net

CA’s polls announcement: BNP seeks specifics, Jamaat okay to wait

BNP leaders welcomed Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus's announcement on the timeline of national elections but urged a clear and actionable roadmap.

While acknowledging the statement as a step forward, they said that vague ideas cannot replace a structured plan to ensure credible and participatory polls.

Speaking to The Daily Star, BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said, "What the chief adviser said about the timing of the election cannot be described as a roadmap. He [Yunus] has merely provided an idea of when the election might take place."

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami, in reaction, expressed conditional support for the timeline.

Jamaat's Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar said, "Despite our initial reluctance regarding the delay, we will remain patient as long as the chief adviser honours his commitment to hold the elections.

"In that case, we are ready to cooperate with him," he told The Daily Star.

Salahuddin Ahmed, another BNP standing committee member, urged the interim government to unveil a specific roadmap, including the date.

The party's Standing Committee Member Khandaker Mosharraf said the sooner the election is held, the better it will be for the interim government and the people of the country.

After the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, Prof Yunus delivered a total of five speeches, which BNP leaders criticised for lacking a clear election roadmap.

Some BNP leaders warned that delays could invite conspiracies and harm the election process.

"The country's economy is in a dire state and soaring commodity prices are suffocating people. Until an elected government is in place, these issues cannot be resolved," party's Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas told reporters after paying tribute to Ziaur Rahman on the occasion of Victory Day.

Attending a programme, BNP Joint Secretary General Syed Emran Saleh Prince said, "Wasting time in the name of reforms will only create opportunities for domestic and foreign conspirators."

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a Standing Committee member said, "Following Tarique Rahman's speech on Sunday, we are waiting for the government's response. Today, the chief adviser's speech provided an idea about the timing of the polls but did not specify a date or outline the process. Once our secretary general is fit, we will announce the party's stance."

Besides, in reaction to the chief adviser's speech, leaders of the Gono Odhikar Parishad, Communist Party of Bangladesh and Ganosamhati Andolon also said the announcement is an indication of progress, but it lacks clarity and details.

Rashed Khan, general secretary of the Gono Odhikar Parishad, said, "This is not a formal roadmap; it's merely a verbal timeframe addressed to the nation by the chief adviser today. It lacks a specific plan for the national election.

"In my opinion, this announcement seems more like a consolation statement for the political parties that have been demanding an election date or a concrete roadmap."

Ruhin Hossain Prince, general secretary of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, said, "In my view, it is a positive step. However, in his speech, he used terms like 'if,' 'but,' and 'maybe,' which failed to address the confusion surrounding the timing of the elections. At the very least, he could have announced a specific timeframe, such as a month, which was the expectation of the citizens. This expectation remained unfulfilled."

He further said, "...currently, we need only minimal reforms to conduct a national election. If they engage in discussions with political parties, it should be possible to hold a free and fair election by 2025, even after implementing necessary reforms."

The chief adviser and his advisory panel should take this route to eliminate all uncertainties, Ruhin added.

Zonayed Saki, chief coordinator of the Ganosamhati Andolon, said, "Primarily, we welcome the indication given by the chief adviser. We expect them to hold discussions with stakeholders and present a more specific roadmap."

"Such discussions with political stakeholders could help finalise the election dates, outline required reforms, and establish a detailed plan. It would also contribute to achieving political stability.​

 

[Saif]

Chief adviser announces election timeline

Chief Adviser's Victory Day speech offers guidance on reforms and elections.

www.thedailystar.net

Chief adviser announces election timeline
All must cooperate to ensure timely reforms and fair elections

VISUAL: STAR

We congratulate Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on his timely, appropriate, and clear guidance to the nation during his Victory Day speech. At a time when questions were being raised about the interim government's reform plans and the holding of elections, his address was very well-thought-out.

Prof Yunus addressed the issue of inflation, noting how challenging it has been to tackle due to the actions of the previous regime during its 15-year tenure. As more details have emerged about the former regime's activities—including the vast amounts of wealth it laundered abroad—the fragile state of the economy has become increasingly apparent. He also underscored the importance of holding those responsible for the July-August killings accountable. While emphasising the need for justice, he stressed the importance of ensuring transparent and fair trials to avoid any doubts about the integrity of the justice process.

Regarding reforms, the chief adviser expressed optimism that various commissions would deliver their recommendations on time. He specifically updated the public on the Election Commission, which has already begun preparations for the next elections. Prof Yunus voiced his dismay over how countless young people were denied their voting rights in the past three elections. To address this, he highlighted the need for an accurate voter list to restore citizens' right to vote. Additionally, he announced plans to create a mechanism enabling Bangladeshis living abroad to participate in the elections—an initiative long discussed but never implemented.

Prof Yunus urged all stakeholders to grant the government sufficient time to implement reforms aimed at improving the electoral process. He suggested that elections could be held by late 2025 if the voter list is accurately prepared with minimal reforms. However, if broader reforms requiring national consensus are pursued, the timeline could extend to the first half of 2026. Given that the Election Commission has already been empowered to prepare an accurate voter list and oversee election reforms, we recommend that elections be held by late 2025 or early 2026, as this aligns with the traditional election timeline in Bangladesh.

Ultimately, only an elected government can provide long-term stability for the nation. Prof Yunus has outlined a clear timeline for the next elections and has rightly emphasised that this timeline should be determined through political consensus. To that end, he announced the formation of a crucial commission, which he will personally lead, to foster consensus on reforms.

The Jamaat-e-Islami has already expressed its position regarding the timeline, and we hope other parties will also follow suit. We call on all political parties, citizens, and other stakeholders to cooperate with the interim government in reaching a political consensus on reforms and the election timeline, prioritising the nation's interests above all else.​

 

[Saif]

Election to boost business confidence: entrepreneurs

Business leaders, economists and professionals have emphasised that an elected government is essential for restoring confidence in the business community, stabilising law and order, and revitalising the business and investment climate.

www.thedailystar.net

Election to boost business confidence: entrepreneurs

Business leaders, economists and professionals have emphasised that an elected government is essential for restoring confidence in the business community, stabilising law and order, and revitalising the business and investment climate.

They also welcomed the speech delivered by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus yesterday as he assured that general elections would be held by the end of 2025 or in early 2026, subject to the completion of vital reforms.

Yunus made the much-anticipated announcement about when the interim government, which assumed power in early August, may organise national elections in his address to the nation on Victory Day.

Members of the business community also echoed that vital reforms in different sectors, which the interim government is currently working on, must be completed before holding the next general election.

Bangladesh's economy has been suffering from a slowdown in recent years, depressed by high inflation, reducing purchasing power, rising interest rates, and slowing private sector credit growth. Imports of capital machinery, another key indicator of private investment and job creation, have also been on the downturn.

In October, private sector credit growth slowed to 8.3 percent year-on-year from 10.09 percent. Meanwhile, letter of credit openings for capital machinery imports dipped 33 percent year-on-year to $582 million in the first four months of this fiscal year, according to the Bangladesh Bank data.

"It is better to hold the elections after completing at least the pressing reforms. Of course, free and fair elections will stabilise the law-and-order situation and help restore confidence to businessmen," said Faruque Hassan, a former president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association.

Abdul Hai Sarker, chairman of the Bangladesh Association of Banks, said the chief adviser's targeted timeline for elections allowed room to implement important reforms.

Sarker said it is generally accepted that businessmen are not critical of the timeline, adding that the move would restore confidence to businessmen.

"The law-and-order situation will have to be controlled gradually. These tasks will be easier for an elected government," Sarker said.

Mohammad Hatem, president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association, echoed Sarker's views.

"State affairs must be managed by an elected government," Hatem said.

However, staging the elections may require more time if reforms take longer to implement.

"I want to say: first reforms, then elections," Hatem told The Daily Star, adding that reforms were ignored during the past government's 15-year tenure.

Kamran T Rahman, president of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said businessmen want and expect the interim government to organise free and fair elections.

Mohammed Amirul Haque, managing director and chief executive officer of Premier Cement Mills, said the chief adviser's speech showed a way forward and was very prudent.

"A stable government is very much needed through the people's mandate," Haque said.

The growth of the economy can be ensured by holding free and fair elections, he said, adding that people expect the interim government to stage free and fair elections.

Zaved Akhtar, president of the Foreign Investors' Chamber of Commerce & Industry, said a democratically elected government can foster a good business and investment environment in Bangladesh by implementing some reforms recommended by the interim government.

It also said it is looking forward to discernible improvements from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, National Board of Revenue and Bangladesh Bank in terms of policies, processes and systems.

"We believe this can bear fruits for the long term and have a far-reaching impact on fostering a positive investment climate in Bangladesh," he said, adding that longer-term investment and trade policies would also bolster business confidence.

Syed Mahbubur Rahman, a former chairman of the Association of Bankers, Bangladesh, said that it is difficult for an interim government to implement many reforms.

"Entrepreneurs may wait and see how the elections are going to be held. Afterwards, they may invest. The country's economy is going through a rough patch. The year 2025 is going to be a difficult year in terms of the economic situation," he said.

"The projected amount of revenue may not be collected, so the government will go to banks to borrow. Gross domestic product growth may also slow, so money flow to the banking sector may shrink. This may create a liquidity pressure in the banking sector."

Mustafizur Rahman, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue, said economic uncertainty will be removed through fair elections while creating a sense of positivity.

"At the same time, the continuation of reforms is similarly important. It is expected that the next elected government will continue the reforms and implement those sincerely."

It is also expected that the political leaders will come to an agreement on the durability and certainty of reform activities, the economist also said.

"Otherwise, the establishment of good governance and transformation to democracy to create an inclusive society and free media might not be possible. The government will have to ensure the sustainability of the reforms," he added.

It is good that the chief adviser set a timeframe, he said, reasoning that it would give political parties the time to reach a consensus on different issues.

Mohammad Abdur Razzaque, chairman of Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID), said major economic challenges continue to persist despite the interim government's measures.

"Vital reforms should be implemented on a priority basis and the next elected government should continue the reforms."

A democratic transition is very important, he said, adding that a fair voter list is also important.​

 

[Saif]

Polls to take place by June 30, 2026

The next parliamentary polls are expected to take place by June 30, 2026, said Shafiqul Alam, the press secretary to the chief adviser.

www.thedailystar.net

Polls to take place by June 30, 2026
Says CA’s press secretary

Photo: BSS/File

The next parliamentary polls are expected to take place by June 30, 2026, said Shafiqul Alam, the press secretary to the chief adviser.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has given a clear-cut roadmap about the election, he said at a press conference yesterday when asked about the BNP's demand for a definite roadmap for the next general elections.

It is the Election Commission's job to announce the election schedule and the government's role is to facilitate the EC, said Azad Majumdar, deputy press secretary to the chief adviser.

About enforced disappearances, Alam said all involved, including political parties and members of law enforcement agencies, will be brought to justice.

When asked how the Awami League leaders and members of law enforcement agencies left the country after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina on August 5, Alam said that the government is reviewing the matter.

The government has no concrete information on the whereabouts of the AL general secretary Obaidul Quader, he said.

The University Grants Commission will be renamed as the University Commission with the view to modernising it and maintaining quality in tertiary education, Alam said.

The government has plans for a significant upgrade to technical and vocational education, he said, while acknowledging that the areas are currently lagging behind.

There would be training initiatives for teachers in private schools and colleges, he said, while noting that private educators often lack access to training opportunities compared with their counterparts in public institutions.

"Efforts will be made to make these textbooks more contemporary," he said.

About forming a reform commission for education, he said that instead of forming a reform commission for education immediately, the government is focusing on identifying areas for rapid intervention to bring qualitative changes to the education sector.

There are plans to increase the budget for the education sector. "Our investment in education is very low -- we need to increase it."​

 

[Saif]

US welcomes Bangladesh election plan

Patel said the United States would encourage the respect of the rule of law over the course of this whole process, as well as the respect for democratic principles should a transition come to fruition...

www.newagebd.net

US welcomes Bangladesh election plan
Agence France-Presse . Washington, United States 19 December, 2024, 04:00

The United States on Wednesday welcomed plans by Bangladesh’s interim government to hold elections after a student-led uprising toppled long-ruling Sheikh Hasina.

‘We welcome steps that have been taken by this interim government of Bangladesh to prepare for elections that ultimately will allow the Bangladeshi people to choose their own government representatives,’ State Department spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters.

Patel said the United States would ‘encourage the respect of the rule of law over the course of this whole process, as well as the respect for democratic principles should a transition come to fruition.’

Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel Prize-winning microfinance pioneer who heads the interim government, said Monday that general elections would take place late next year or in early 2026.

Former prime minister Hasina, who fled to neighbouring India in August, was accused of rising authoritarianism during her time in power including staging lopsided elections and carrying out extrajudicial killings and detentions.

Patel said that the United States was ‘deeply troubled’ by recent findings of a preliminary inquiry that found Hasina and other ex-officials were involved in mass enforced disappearances.

‘We welcome efforts by the interim government to investigate these crimes and encourage fair and transparent processes to provide justice for the victims and their family members,’ Patel said.

The United States has also voiced alarm over reported attacks on Bangladesh’s Hindu minority since the fall of Hasina, an opponent of Islamists who was backed by regional power India.​

 

[Saif]

Electoral Process: From manipulation to transparency

NATIONAL elections play a pivotal role in shaping the political, economic, and social direction of a country, serving as the cornerstone of democracy and the foundation for governance, stability and public accountability. They empower citizens to exercise their right to vote, enabling the...

www.newagebd.net

Electoral Process: From manipulation to transparency
Md Motiar Rahman 19 December, 2024, 00:00

New Age/Mehedi Haque

NATIONAL elections play a pivotal role in shaping the political, economic, and social direction of a country, serving as the cornerstone of democracy and the foundation for governance, stability and public accountability. They empower citizens to exercise their right to vote, enabling the collective voice of the populace to determine leadership and policies while ensuring accountability and legitimacy in the government. By fostering a sense of collective responsibility, elections encourage active civic engagement, making governments responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people. They also provide a peaceful mechanism for transferring power, promoting stability, trust in political institutions and a commitment to democratic values and inclusive governance.

Furthermore, elections serve as a platform for addressing pressing national issues, debating future policies and shaping the nation’s priorities and future. Ultimately, they reflect the sovereignty of the people, the health of democratic tradition and a country’s dedication to a vibrant, inclusive society. However, election through the manipulation, engineering or strategic design of electoral processes, systems or outcomes to favour a particular candidate, party or group destroys the people’s aspirations in the electoral process.

The Election Commission is responsible for organising and conducting free, fair and transparent elections. It operates as an independent constitutional body, ensuring impartiality in managing electoral processes. The commission oversees the preparation and revision of the electoral roll, the delimitation of constituencies and the enforcement of the electoral code of conduct. It coordinates with various government agencies, including the police and civil administration, to ensure security and logistical support during elections. Voting is conducted through secret ballots, with polling stations set up nationwide, monitored by election officials and observers to prevent irregularities. The Election Commission also addresses complaints and disputes related to the election process, reinforcing its commitment to upholding democratic principles.

Public trust in the Election Commission has eroded significantly, driven by a widespread perception of its alignment with ruling party interests in previous elections. It has been widely viewed as a subordinate entity to the ruling party, functioning as its tool rather than an impartial and independent body. The national elections during the previous regime were plagued by controversies, ranging from unopposed parliamentary appointment to the widespread accusation of ballot box tampering. The 2014 ‘uncontested elections’ were marred by opposition boycotts, the 2018 ‘midnight elections’ drew allegations of pre-poll vote rigging and the 2024 ‘dummy elections’ saw near-total dominance by ruling party candidates. These practices, coupled with the systematic suppression of opposition parties, created an enduring legacy of mistrust. In this context, the interim government committed to facilitating transparent and inclusive elections, emphasising the importance of these reforms to safeguard democratic principles. A commission was formed to reform the election commission.

By this time, a new election commission was formed by the interim government amid rising public demand for voting rights, marking a critical moment in Bangladesh’s democratic journey. The forthcoming national elections, the first under a non-partisan interim government since 2008, offer a unique opportunity to restore public trust and reset the democratic process. By removing the government’s influence over administration, law enforcement and election officials, the interim government has created a level playing field. Through transparency, impartiality and accountability, the commission can rebuild confidence and ensure credible elections, laying a stronger foundation for democracy.

On the other hand, the election reforms commission has been working to overhaul the entire electoral system. As part of this effort, the reform committee convened a meeting with administrative officials to gather insights from stakeholders and organisers involved in managing national and local government elections. During the discussions, officials attributed the irregularities observed in the contentious 2014, 2018 and 2024 elections to law enforcement, particularly the police, citing their tendency to disregard field-level administrative directives in favour of instructions from the headquarters.

This is an alarming revelation by the civil service officers who play a pivotal role in the free and fair national elections under the supervision of the Election Commission. Elections are conducted by a range of officials trained and empowered to uphold electoral laws and ensure fairness and transparency. Key officers include returning officers, typically senior civil servants such as deputy commissioners, who oversee election activities in their constituencies, supported by assistant returning officers in managing polling activities and logistics. Presiding officers, appointed under the authority of returning officers and assistant returning officers, are assigned to individual polling stations to ensure smooth voting processes, with assistance from assistant presiding officers and polling officers, who handle tasks such as verifying voter identities, issuing ballot papers and guiding voters. These officials collectively manage, supervise and oversee all pre-election, mid-election, and post-election activities, ensuring a proper control and monitoring within polling centres.

The police play a crucial role in ensuring election security by maintaining law and order, safeguarding polling stations, preventing violence and fraud and upholding electoral laws. On the election day, their presence is essential for maintaining peace, protecting individuals and property and ensuring a smooth transition of power to newly elected representatives. The effectiveness of the police is critical in fostering voter confidence and supporting a fair democratic process, particularly in a politically charged environment. During elections, the police are deployed alongside members of the Ansar and Village Defence Party and, when necessary, personnel from the armed forces, all working collectively to enforce the law. Their responsibilities strictly exclude facilitating, obstructing or engaging in electoral fraud or manipulation. Any deviation from these duties makes them liable to punishment under the electoral act.

Law enforcement experts contend that attributing sole blame to the police for election irregularities oversimplifies the issue, emphasising that the responsibility is shared with returning and presiding officers. While the police play a significant role in maintaining election security, holding them solely accountable is both unfair and misleading. Accusations of partisanship and defiance within the police force have raised questions about the effectiveness and responsibilities of election officials in managing and conducting the national elections. Claims that the police are entirely responsible for failing to meet public expectations in the past three national elections distort the truth and unfairly shift blame. While the police, along with other government employees, may have supported election manipulation, their role is strictly supplementary, not central. They lack direct knowledge of activities inside polling stations unless significant disorder occurs or election officials request their assistance as their presence is limited to maintaining order outside the polling stations, with no involvement in internal proceedings.

When the ruling party employs strategies to manipulate elections, their focus is primarily on the returning officers, not the police. This is because only returning officers and their close associates have the authority to alter election outcomes. For instance, in 2014, despite leaders of Hussain Muhammad Ershad’s Jatiya Party publicly declaring their intention to withdraw their candidacies, the returning officers refused to accept their withdrawal. In some cases, candidates were even declared elected without submitting nomination papers.

In the 2018 election, returning officers systematically disqualified the nomination papers of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and other opposition candidates on absurd grounds. This left BNP voters uncertain about their candidates even a week before the elections. Furthermore, the early disappearance of ballots under the returning officer’s custody remains a mystery. The situation was even more egregious in local government elections. In the Barishal City Corporation elections, some ruling party candidates were unable to cast their vote because of the shortage of ballot papers — an outcome of pre-stuffed ballot boxes orchestrated with the cooperation of the returning officers before the voting even started.

If the alarming claim that the police were solely responsible for election engineering in the past three elections is accepted, it raises the question: why was no appropriate legal action taken? Other security forces, operating under the supervision of the executive magistrate, could have intervened and taken immediate legal or punitive measures against those responsible, including the police. Additionally, the police at the subordinate level, along with a limited number of Ansars and VDP personnel, both armed and unarmed, are typically deployed to maintain law and order at election centres. They lack the authority to overpower presiding officers or defy their orders. It is widely acknowledged that elections, national or local, require a coordinated effort and shared responsibility, as they are inherently a team endeavour.

Putting the blame solely on the police while others attempt to portray themselves as uninvolved in election manipulation is neither fair nor credible. Instead, it must be acknowledged that the entire state apparatus has been complicit in this flawed process of election engineering and manipulation over the past 16 years. An inquiry commission should be established to thoroughly investigate the irregularities in national elections. The commission will examine allegations of police complicity and the incompetence or inertia of other organisations, assign accountability where necessary and ensure that election manipulation of this nature never recurs. This will strengthen the electoral process, restore public confidence and end election tampering. Officers from both law enforcement agencies and the civil administration are believed to have advanced their careers and achieved significant success under the previous regime. While some have since retired, others may still be in service. Based on the findings of a fair and transparent inquiry, appropriate legal actions — preferably formal complaints filed under relevant legal provisions — should be pursued.

It is strongly recommended that law enforcement and administrative officers should be placed under the supervision of the district judge, acting as the chief returning officer, during national elections. This approach draws inspiration and precedence from the 1970 elections under Pakistan’s military regime when the chief election commissioner Justice Abdus Sattar replaced deputy commissioners with district judges as returning officers to ensure impartiality — a decision that remains a historical benchmark for electoral integrity in the region. Building on this precedent, the interim government may consider placing officers of administration, law enforcement agencies and other paraphernalia under judicial supervision during elections, aiming to enhance accountability and minimize partisan interference.

It is to be noted that the Election Commission lacks members with direct law enforcement experience which may limit its ability to address complex security issues during, before and after the elections. While commissioners bring expertise from administration, judiciary and military backgrounds, none have first-hand knowledge of the police’s specific challenges, leaving the commission reliant on external advice. The inclusion of a retired police official could enhance the commission’s capacity to strategise election security, provided appointments are made impartially to avoid bias. By not including a retired police official, the commission may miss out on valuable insights into crowd management, intelligence gathering and strategies for countering electoral malpractices like voter intimidation or booth capturing. Moreover, effective coordination between the commission and the law enforcement agencies is crucial, along with transparent policies and accountability frameworks to ensure that law enforcement remains non-partisan and efficient.

The manipulation of electoral processes over the past decade highlights systemic flaws that undermine democracy. Restoring trust in elections requires a multi-pronged approach, including transparent inquiries, accountability for past irregularities and structural reforms in electoral oversight. By emphasising impartiality, ensuring accountability and placing critical administrative and law enforcement functions under judicial supervision, the nation can work towards safeguarding its democratic values and preventing future election engineering. The proposed reforms mark a pivotal moment to rebuild credibility in governance and reinforce public confidence in the electoral process.

Dr Md Motiar Rahman is a retired deputy inspector general of police.​

 

[Saif]

Election in first half of ’26 is not unreasonable, but Dec ’25 is doable

Whatever the differing stances of various political parties may be, people in general would prefer to exercise their franchise.

www.thedailystar.net

Election in first half of ’26 is not unreasonable, but Dec ’25 is doable
The chief adviser should consider the first option

FILE VISUAL: SALMAN SAKIB SHAHRYAR

Prof Muhammad Yunus has put the election train on track with the option of reaching its destination either in December 2025 or in the first half of 2026. For a country that did not have a proper election for 15 years—three rigged elections in 2014, 2018 and 2024—a six-month time gap should not worry us much. But considering the overall situation, including the economy, lack of investment, law and order, and people's eagerness to see an elected government and parliament installed as early as possible, we think Prof Yunus and his interim government should opt for the first of the two options he has suggested.

And this is why.

The main aim is to have both reforms and an election. Reforms, because we just cannot go back to the past practice of holding an election then allowing the winning party to do whatever it wishes, especially if it has a two-thirds majority. We must amend the constitution to restore checks and balances among the executive, legislative and judiciary, curtail the unilateral power of the prime minister, make the judiciary functionally independent, make the various statutory bodies like the National Human Rights Commission, Information Commission and Election Commission independent, make the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General, etc autonomous, and ensure freedom of speech and of the media, among other things. A fundamental reform would be to make the parliament functional and enable it to hold the executive genuinely accountable.

However, as important and crucial as the reforms are, one cannot postpone the elections much further. We need to move away from a makeshift arrangement of an interim government to a more stable one of an elected government, fully backed by the constitution that will give the new government all the legality, legitimacy and prestige of any democratic government in the world. An election is necessary to restore the world's faith in Bangladesh that we can wade through whatever challenges a situation may provide and still continue in the path of democracy. This is the most important thing to prove to the world.

Both can be achieved within the next 12 months.

All the main six reform committees, the most important ones as stated by the chief adviser himself, are scheduled to submit their reports by the end of 2024 or maximum by January next year. The chief adviser's suggestion about the formation of a consensus commission is, in our view, a brilliant innovation that will help us move towards a stable future. The consensus commission will engage with all the political parties to reach consensus on which recommendations are to be implemented by the interim government—through ordinance—and which are to be left for the elected government. Achieving a consensus among all parties will be a major political goal, which has not been achieved since the all-party charter during the fall of the Ershad government in 1990. Since the chief adviser himself will chair the consensus commission, we feel confident that a positive outcome will certainly emerge.

Coming back to the timeline, if the commission starts its work following the submission of reports by December-January, the interim government will have nearly 10 months to move towards the election.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin said on Tuesday that the Election Commission has been preparing for the election from the day of their taking office, and it is ready to comply with the dates suggested by the chief adviser. He also said he would be able to complete updating of the voter list within the next two months. If the Election Commission goes for the more elaborate process of updating the voter list by doing a door-to-door verification process, it still should not take more than six or seven months, which will take us at best to July or August next year.

So, both in terms of the completion of the reform processes and in terms of preparation for the election, the coming 12 months appear sufficient from all counts to go for the polls. Also, the fact that the winter season has traditionally been preferred for holding the general elections because of the reduced prospect of natural disruptions like rain, floods, cyclones, etc must not be overlooked.

The actors in the political field today are Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islami, and numerous smaller political parties. The new entry, which is likely to be a significant player, is the political party of the student groups that played a decisive role in toppling the old regime. They have declared their intention of forming a political party within a very short time, with its own student wing.

BNP is the party waiting at the doorstep of assuming power. Therefore, its eagerness to push for the earliest timetable for the election is predictable. The speech by Tarique Rahman, the party's acting chairman, on December 18, urging his party members to focus on "reforms and not revenge" deserves commendation. He further said, "If you want to respond to the injustice, oppression and suppression done to you, you should not imitate what they [Awami League] have done. If we do so, there will be no difference between them and us." This is a highly refreshing and welcome position, and a very powerful and farsighted one.

Even before the submission of the constitutional commission's recommendations, Tarique has said he and his party will recommend two terms for the prime minister, to be fixed by the constitution. As the person who may hold that position, if voted so, he was in fact putting restrictions on his own possible future tenure—a most appreciable and hitherto unprecedented gesture. He also expressed his support for a bicameral legislature for the future. Both these suggestions have far-reaching political consequences for us, and clearly shows that the acting chief of today's BNP is thinking ahead.

The party's 31-point programme, which was prepared some time ago, lays out clearly what the BNP proposes to do once in power. However, we are used to our political parties promising the moon before the election and then forgetting everything once in power. But given the July-August uprising, we hope things will be different this time.

Jamaat has extended a conditional support to the chief adviser's polls plan, with the secretary general saying, "Despite our initial reluctance regarding the delay, we will remain patient as long as the chief adviser honours his commitment to hold elections… we are ready to cooperate with him." This clearly shows that Jamaat is not in any hurry. The reason is obvious: the more time it gets, the more will Jamaat, as the second biggest party right now, be organised when the election comes.

It is our view that smaller parties will acquiesce to the chief adviser's mid-2026 timeline as they may not expect too much from the election and are better off now in terms of being treated on an equal footing with all others.

role of civil society in Bangladesh's democracy

Among the most interesting political developments that are likely is the new party planned by the students. It will be interesting to see them emerge as a political force, get voters' support by joining the election, and participate in the governance process, being elected MPs. The new party may bring about a refreshing change in our political scene with new and bold ideas aimed at removing discriminations from our society. However, they would prefer more time to be able to organise themselves better, and hence are opposed to an early election.

Whatever the differing stances of various political parties may be, people in general would, we think, prefer to exercise their franchise to elect their government, something they have been deprived from for the last 15 years.

Mahfuz Anam is the editor and publisher of The Daily Star.​

 

[Saif]

Student Movement rejects statement by Badiul on AL

The Anti-discrimination Student Movement has rejected the statement by Election Reform Commission chief Badiul Alam Majumdar that “there is no obstacle for the Awami League to participate in the general election”. It said allowing the deposed Awami League to contest in elections or tak

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Student Movement rejects statement by Badiul on AL
FE Online Desk
Published :
Dec 19, 2024 20:30
Updated :
Dec 19, 2024 20:30

The Anti-discrimination Student Movement has rejected the statement by Election Reform Commission chief Badiul Alam Majumdar that “there is no obstacle for the Awami League to participate in the general election”.

It said allowing the deposed Awami League to contest in elections or take part in any political activities would dishonour the sacrifices of those who died during the July uprising, bdnews24.com reports.

This statement was made public in a press release issued on Thursday evening by Umama Fatema, the movement's spokesperson.

The statement read, "The Awami League is a group responsible for numerous massacres in Bangladesh. Over the past 16 years, they have been involved in enforced disappearances, murders, extrajudicial killings, and various human rights violations."

"In the most recent July massacre, the notorious Awami League claimed the lives of nearly 2,000 martyrs and caused the dismemberment of over 30,000 people. The Awami League has unlawfully manipulated the last three elections for its own interests. Allowing this party, which has tarnished the electoral system of Bangladesh, to participate in elections would go against the will of the people."

The statement asserted that the Anti-discrimination Student Movement opposes the participation of the Awami League in any political activities, including elections. It believes that such participation would devalue the bloodshed of the martyrs of the July uprising.

It called on Badiul Alam to retract his statement and take appropriate measures to prevent the Awami League from participating in the elections.​

 

[Saif]

EC ramps up preparations for national election

The Election Commission, under the stewardship of Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, has embarked on preparations for the nation's 13th parliamentary election, setting the wheels in motion for what it promises to be a festival time in the country's democratic journey

www.thedailystar.net

EC ramps up preparations for national election

The Election Commission, under the stewardship of Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, has embarked on preparations for the nation's 13th parliamentary election, setting the wheels in motion for what it promises to be a festival time in the country's democratic journey.

In a decisive move, the EC has instructed its officials to initiate the procurement process for critical election materials.

Plans are also underway to fast-track the door-to-door data collection drive, starting in January instead of March, to ensure an updated and robust electoral roll.

These resolutions emerged from an impromptu meeting of the commission, presided over by the CEC on Thursday.

The session delved into key issues, including voter list updates, constituency delimitation and the procurement of election essentials.

Streamlined Procurement Timeline

With swift execution, the EC feels that its secretariat could secure all necessary materials within six to seven months.

Officials emphasised the need for meticulous planning to adhere to the timeline.

The meeting detailed the inventory required for the election, which includes transparent ballot boxes, indelible ink pens, official and marking seals, stamp pads, chargers, and other essentials.

A review of the existing stocks against projected requirements underscored the urgency of the procurement process.

Indelible ink, a crucial component, must be imported and typically requires up to 70 days for delivery. But the EC noted that some contractors have expedited the process in the past, raising hopes for an efficient turnaround.

Aligning with Election Timeline

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus recently suggested that the 13th general election could be held in late 2025 or early 2026.

Responding to this, CEC AMM Nasir Uddin instructed EC officials to align preparations with this projected timeline.

"We will be fully prepared to hold the election as per the timeframe suggested by the Honourable Chief Adviser," the CEC affirmed, exuding confidence in the EC's ability to meet the challenge.

Accelerating Voter List Updates

The EC is also poised to expedite the annual update of the voter list.

Traditionally, a draft list is published on January 2, inviting public feedback. Any complaints are resolved before the final list is released on March 2.

The proposed early start to the data collection campaign reflects the EC's commitment to ensuring an accurate and inclusive voter list.

Thursday's meeting was attended by four election commissioners and senior EC officials, who pledged their collective efforts to ensure smooth preparations for the upcoming national elections.​

 

[Saif]

BNP allies want election by 2025

The political allies of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party want national elections by 2025. They have also asked the BNP to immediately plan a programme to press home their demands that...

www.newagebd.net

BNP allies want election by 2025
Staff Correspondent 21 December, 2024, 17:17

The political allies of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party want national elections by 2025. They have also asked the BNP to immediately plan a programme to press home their demands that include holding the next national elections by 2025.

The suggestions came on Saturday from dialogues between the BNP and its allies in which the leaders of the 12-Party Alliance, Jatiyatabadi Samamona Jote, and Labour Party met with the BNP liaison committee.

The dialogues were held as part of the series started from the day between the BNP and its allies at the party chairperson’s office in the capital’s Gulshan.

On the day, a delegation from the Liberal Democratic Party was also scheduled to meet with the BNP leaders, but the meeting was rescheduled.

The BNP allies said that a programme was imperative to exert political pressure on the interim government for holding the elections by 2025.

When asked, LDP chairman and also spokesperson for the 12-Party Alliance Shahadat Hossain Selim told New Age, ‘Most of the leaders of our alliance gave opinions at the meeting in favour of holding the next election by next year.’

‘We are in favour of a quick election to thwart conspiracies centring the election which may delay the polls,’ Selim said.

The election is possible by June 2025 if the interim government had the good will, he added.

Another leader, preferring anonymity, of the alliance said, ‘Everyone during the dialogue said that the next election should be held by 2025. We simply do not want it to be delayed to 2026.’

‘The BNP believes that conspiracies are in the making to create instability in the country as they are monitoring the situation. At this meeting we had initial discussions to give a programme on various issues, including elections and rising commodity prices,’ the leader said.

The final decision would come after discussions at the BNP standing committee meeting, the leader noted.

A member of the 12-party alliance, Jatiya Party (Kazi Jafar) chairman Mustafa Jamal Haider said that had a long meeting with the BNP leaders.

‘Discussions were held on what the political programme would be in the coming days. The programme will be finalised after discussions in the BNP standing committee meeting.’

Noting that the need for unity had not yet ended, he said ‘We have been carrying out an anti-fascist movement for long and we are still united.’

After the meeting with 12-party alliance, BNP standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan told journalists that BNP would continue to work with other political parties in the future on the emerging political situation and contemporary issues of the country, as it had done in the past.

Noting that views were exchanged on the existing political situation at the meeting, he said that decisions would be taken at the BNP standing committee meeting and would be announced later.

BNP’s other partner in simultaneous movement, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, at a programme in Cumilla on the day also iterated its demand for next national elections by 2025.

BNP began a series of dialogue with like-minded political parties on the day by holding its first meeting with the 12-Party Alliance leaders in a bid to consolidate unity and seek their opinions on the next general election.

BNP liaison committee members, headed by party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, participated in the meeting.​

 

[Saif]

EC will decide who will join elections: Badiul Alam Majumder

People from different strata expressed their opinions at the event where two other members of the commission – Tofail Ahmed and Jesmin Tuli – were also present.

en.prothomalo.com

EC will decide who will join elections: Badiul Alam Majumder
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 22 Dec 2024, 19: 08

Badiul Alam Majumder, head of the electoral system reform commission, speaks at a an event to exchange views on reform to the electoral system in Chattogram on 22 December 2024.Prothom Alo

Head of the electoral system reform commission, Badiul Alam Majumdar, has said, “The election commission will decide who will join the election and who are eligible or ineligible for polls, whereas our tasks are to place proposals on reform to the electoral system.”

Badiul Alam Majumdar said this replying to journalists’ queries on the participation of all political parties in elections after an event to exchange views on reform to the electoral system in Chattogram on Sunday.

People from different strata expressed their opinions at the event where two other members of the commission – Tofail Ahmed and Jesmin Tuli – were also present.

Saying that everyone wants a fair election, Badiul Alam Majumdar added, “We will places some proposals but it is the responsibility of the government to implement those.”

Regarding the election deadline, he said, “We expect to make recommendations by 31 December. The chief adviser said that let the election train roll on the track and the formation of the election commission was their first task. Our tasks do not contradict with theirs but they still have lots to do that include updating voter lists, and it is necessary to start those tasks.”

He said, “We will recommend on reform to electoral system. We also are considering everything including proportional representation. But these are not our decisions. These issues require change to constitution and the commission to change constitution should make these recommendations.”​

 

[Saif]

Amir Khosru criticises CA’s lengthy election timeline

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Monday said the timeframe for the upcoming national election, as hinted by the Chief Adviser, is unnecessarily lengthy and not within their desired logical time. “The election period hinted at by the government has not been discussed with us.

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Amir Khosru criticises CA’s lengthy election timeline
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Dec 23, 2024 22:13
Updated :
Dec 23, 2024 22:13

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Monday said the timeframe for the upcoming national election, as hinted by the Chief Adviser, is unnecessarily lengthy and not within their desired logical time.

“The election period hinted at by the government has not been discussed with us. We cannot understand why such a lengthy timeframe has been given,” he said while speaking to reporters after a meeting with the leaders of the Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM), reports UNB.

As part of BNP’s efforts to consolidate unity and seek the opinions of its alliance partners, Khosru held a meeting with the NDM leaders at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan in the evening.

The BNP leader said people are expressing various concerns over the government’s intention to hold the election after taking so much time in the name of reforms. “So, people are getting confused and finding various reasons… We told the government to arrange the election within a logical timeframe, but we’re not seeing it.”

The BNP leader said he discussed the country’s overall political situation, the election timeframe, reforms, and other related issues with the NDM leaders.

He said the Chief Adviser suddenly spoke about the election timeframe without consulting the political parties, despite having held meetings with them on various important issues. “We believe the most important issue now is the election, which the people of Bangladesh have been waiting for. But we’re not aware of the election timeframe,” Khosru said.

Regarding reforms, he said the government should have first completed the reforms in the country’s electoral system by the time. “We’re now supposed to head towards the election after completing the electoral reforms.”

The BNP leader said other reforms must be carried out in parliament by elected public representatives with the people’s mandate.

He said the government can only implement reforms on which political parties reach a consensus. “But where political consensus can’t be reached, those reforms will be implemented in parliament with the mandate of the people.”

The BNP leader also said it is unnecessary to buy time under the guise of reforms and reform commissions’ reports. “We are committed to the nation to implement our 31-point reform proposal through a national government. There is no room for confusion on this matter.”

When asked whether the party has any plans to launch a movement to pressure the government to hold the elections promptly, Khosru said they want to follow the peaceful path of liberal democracy.

“There have been many clashes and conflicts in the past, which have badly affected the people of the country. So, we are trying to ensure that such conflicting politics never returns to Bangladesh. Our efforts will succeed only if the election is held as soon as possible,” he observed.

NDM Chairman Bobby Hajjaj said they, along with the BNP, want the government to present a clear roadmap for the election to promptly restore the people’s right to vote.

“There’s no reason to delay the election. No government can make any major decision without the mandate of the people. Therefore, we want the government to come up with a detailed and clear election roadmap,” he said.

Later, Khosru also held another meeting with a delegation from a faction of Gono Odhikar Parishad, led by Mia Moshiuzzaman.

Earlier on Saturday, the party began talks with political groups that had launched a simultaneous movement with it against the Awami League regime. These discussions included three separate meetings with the 12-Party Alliance, Jatiyatabadi Samamona Jote, and the Labour Party.

On December 16, Chief Adviser Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus indicated that the 13th National Parliamentary Election might be scheduled for the end of 2025 or the first half of 2026.

A day later, his Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, clarified that the next general election could be expected to take place by June 30, 2026.

"He (CA) has provided a timeline. What could be a clearer roadmap than this? You can expect the election to be held by June 30, 2026. This is a clear roadmap," he said while briefing reporters at the Foreign Service Academy.​

 

[Saif]

Polls should be govt’s priority, not lowering of voting age

Emphasising the urgency of general elections, political party leaders cautioned against lowering the voting age. They argued that such a move could spark controversy and push back the polls date in the process.

www.thedailystar.net

Polls should be govt’s priority, not lowering of voting age
Say leaders of several political parties

Photo: BSS

Emphasising the urgency of general elections, political party leaders cautioned against lowering the voting age. They argued that such a move could spark controversy and push back the polls date in the process.

On Friday, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus suggested a minimum voting age of 17 and expressed his willingness to accept such a proposal if it reflects popular consensus.

The next day, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir disapproved of this suggestion, saying that it had sparked controversy and raised concerns about delays in the polls.

People will now be worried about a potential delay in elections as preparation of the voter list will require more time if the voting age is lowered, he said while speaking at an event in the capital.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Spokesperson Advocate Matiur Rahman Akanda told this newspaper yesterday that the party believes that the minimum voting age should align with international standards while also taking into account the maturity of young citizens.

Also while speaking to this newspaper, Ruhin Hossain Prince, general secretary of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, said the chief adviser's suggestion of 17 as the suitable voting age becomes effectively binding, influencing the Election Commission's decision-making process.

Expressing the same sentiment, Razekuzzaman Ratan, assistant general secretary of Bangladesher Samajtantrik Dal, said lowering the voting age to 17 is "unnecessary".

This has broader implications related to citizens' rights, which could invite further complications in the process, he added.

As of yet, no official proposals have been submitted to the Election Reform Commission regarding lowering the voting age, said sources.

According to Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar, head of the Election Reform Commission, the matter of determining the minimum voting age falls within the jurisdiction of the Constitution Reform Commission.

When contacted, Prof Ali Riaz, head of the Constitution Reform Commission, said the commission has received multiple proposals for both lowering the voting age to 17 and keeping the existing minimum age of 18.

"We are considering all the proposals that we have received. Our decision regarding this particular matter will be reflected in our draft proposals scheduled to be submitted on January 7."

According to EC officials, around 25 lakh voters will be added if the voting age is lowered to 17.

They said there are both upsides and downsides to lowering the voting age to 17.

On the one hand, the decision would increase democratic participation by allowing more young people to engage in the political process. While, on the other hand, a 17-year-old might not possess the necessary experience to make informed political decisions, they added.

Furthermore, several EC officials also pointed out that if the voting age is lowered, then changes will need to be made to the constitution, the Electoral Rolls Act, 2009, and the Children Act, 2013.

According to the constitution, the elections to Parliament shall be on the basis of adult franchise, and a person shall be entitled to be enrolled on the electoral roll if that person is not less than 18 years of age.

The Electoral Rolls Act, 2009 also says that a person shall be entitled to be enrolled on the electoral roll if they are not less than 18 years of age.

The Children Act of 2013 in Bangladesh defines a child as anyone under the age of 18.

According to the Unicef website, in around 90 percent of countries and territories, the voting age is 18 or above.

Today, countries and territories where children aged 16 and or 17 are allowed to vote in all elections include Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Cuba, Ecuador, Guernsey, Greece, Indonesia, Isle of Man, Jersey, Nicaragua, North Korea, and Timor-Leste.

Some countries and territories allow 16- or 17-year-olds to vote in at least some elections, such as local or state elections, as in Estonia, Germany, Israel, Puerto Rico, Scotland, and Wales. Children aged 16 in Belgium, Austria, Germany, and Malta, and those aged 17 in Greece, are allowed to vote in European elections.​

 

[Saif]

Changes needed to include more youths in voter list: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin today underscored the need for some changes in the existing process to include more youths in the voter list ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections

www.thedailystar.net

Changes needed to include more youths in voter list: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin today underscored the need for some changes in the existing process to include more youths in the voter list ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.

He told reporters after a meeting with Election Reform Commission Chief Badiul Alam Mazumder at Nirbachan Bhaban in Dhaka's Agargaon.

Nasir Uddin said discussion was held with the Election Reform Commission as they would submit their report to the government soon.

"They wanted to know if we have any recommendations or statements. We expressed our opinions on various issues," he added.

Replying to a query, the CEC said there is something related to delimitation and something that is connected to the voter list.

"Apart from that, we will have some recommendations that are significant for the election. Whether they make recommendations or not, we have to address them. Otherwise, we cannot address delimitation. Since we want to include more youths in the voter list, some changes have to be made. We told them what is needed," Nasir Uddin said.

Badiul Alam Majumder, head of the Election Reform Commission, said, "The commission aims to submit its reform report by December 31. If delayed, the report will be submitted within January 3."

He also put emphasis on collaborative efforts between the EC and the Reform Commission for shaping the electoral landscape and addressing pressing concerns for the upcoming elections.​

 

[Saif]

Electoral Reform Commission will file report by Jan 3, says Badiul

The Electoral Reform Commission aims to submit its report to Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus by Friday. Before finalising the report, the commission consulted with the newly appointed Election Commission, reports bdnews24.com. The commission’s chief Badiul Alam Majumdar met Chief Election Comm

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Electoral Reform Commission will file report by Jan 3, says Badiul
Published :
Dec 29, 2024 23:40
Updated :
Dec 29, 2024 23:40

The Electoral Reform Commission aims to submit its report to Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus by Friday.

Before finalising the report, the commission consulted with the newly appointed Election Commission, reports bdnews24.com.

The commission’s chief Badiul Alam Majumdar met Chief Election Commissioner, or CEC, AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Building in Dhaka’s Agragaon on Sunday.

The Election Commission highlighted the reforms regarding boundary redrawing and the inclusion of young voters in the electoral roll.

Badiul said, "We will try to submit the report to the government by the 31st of December, but if that is not possible, we will submit it by the 3rd of January."

“They [Electoral Reform Commission] came to discuss their work; they will submit the report soon,” CEC Nasir told the journalists after the meeting.

He added, “They asked if we have any recommendations or statements, and we shared our views on several matters."

When asked about the topics discussed, the CEC said: “There are issues related to the redefinition of parliamentary constituency boundaries and some matters regarding the voter list. We will have some recommendations on these important election-related issues.

“Whether they make recommendations or not, we must address these issues. Otherwise, we won't be able to proceed with boundary redefinition."

He continued, “We may need to make changes if we want to include the younger generation in the voter list.

“The Electoral Reform Commission is considering reforms in this regard."

The CEC said the Election Reform Commission was not asked about their recommendations. Instead, the Election Commission’s needs were communicated at the meeting.​

 

[Saif]

If not banned, AL can contest elections: CEC

The decision to ban Awami League rests solely with the court and the government, said chief election commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Monday.

www.newagebd.net

If not banned, AL can contest elections: CEC
Staff Correspondent . Chattogram 30 December, 2024, 13:45

AMM Nasir Uddin | UNB file photo

The decision to ban Awami League rests solely with the court and the government, said chief election commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Monday.

‘We have no role in this matter. Awami League has been a registered party since 1972. Unless the court or the government imposes a ban, there is no obstacle to the party’s participation in the elections.’

The chief election commissioner made these remarks during a press briefing held at the Chattogram Circuit House conference room on Monday morning, ahead of a meeting with election officials to discuss voter list updates and preparations for the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

Reiterating the institution’s independence, CEC Nasir said, ‘The Election Commission operates independently and is under no external pressure. Unlike previous elections, no external forces will be able to influence the commission this time.’

Nasir also pledged to ensure a fair and transparent election, saying, ‘The voter list will be updated within the next six months. This time, the voting process will not repeat past mistakes. Since August 5, a sense of national unity regarding the election has emerged. The forthcoming polls will resemble the fair elections of 1991 and 1996.’

Highlighting irregularities in voter lists, the election commission chief said, ‘We have identified fake voters. Additionally, many deceased individuals remain on the voter list because their relatives did not report their deaths. This issue was exploited in past elections.’

The CEC called for increased efforts to register female voters, acknowledging their lower numbers compared with male voters. “Media support is crucial to address this disparity. We need campaigns to encourage women to register as voters and actively participate in the electoral process.”

Chattogram regional election officer Yunus Ali and district election officer Bashir Ahmed, among other officials, were present at the event.

The student-led mass uprising overthrew the Sheikh Hasina regime with her fleeing to India on August 5, leading to the formation of the Professor Muhammad Yunus-led interim government.​

 

[Saif]

'We aim to deliver a truly credible election': CEC

He made the remarks during a views-exchange meeting with election officials at the Cumilla Regional Election Office, discussing voter list updates and preparation for the next national election

www.thedailystar.net

'We aim to deliver a truly credible election': CEC

Photo: UNB

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin today affirmed the Election Commission's commitment to ensuring a truly credible 13th parliamentary election, marking a departure from the practices of previous commissions.

"We are determined to prove through our actions that we are not like the previous two or three election commissions. Our goal is to present the nation with a truly credible election," the CEC said.

He made the remarks during a views-exchange meeting with election officials at the Cumilla Regional Election Office, discussing voter list updates and preparation for the next national election.

While the exact date and time for the national election have not yet been decided, the CEC said the commission has already begun preparations based on hints from the chief adviser's speech on December 16.

"Our current focus is on the national election, not local government polls. Preparations for local government elections have not yet begun," Nasir Uddin said.

As part of its preparation, the commission is actively working to update the electoral roll, removing deceased individuals and Rohingya nationals from the list.

The CEC also emphasised encouraging youth participation by ensuring their enrolment in the voter list. Further preparations for the national elections would depend on the findings and recommendations of the Reform Commission.

Presided over by Cumilla Regional Election Officer Dulal Talukdar, the meeting was attended, among others, by officials from district and upazila-level election offices within the region, including Cumilla, Chandpur, Brahmanbaria, Lakshmipur Noakhali, and Feni.​

 

[Saif]

CA reiterates 2 possible polls timelines

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has once again said the next general election will likely be held in December 2025 or by mid-2026.

www.thedailystar.net

CA reiterates 2 possible polls timelines
Assures visting UK MP of free, fair polls

Photo: PID

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has once again said the next general election will likely be held in December 2025 or by mid-2026.

He shared the two possible timelines for the election when British parliamentarian Rupa Huq, who is on a three-day visit as part of a business delegation from the UK, met Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna yesterday.

Google News LinkFor all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
"The election date depends on how much reform people want," Yunus told Rupa, while assuring her that the next general election would be free and fair.

In response, Rupa expressed willingness to return to Bangladesh to observe the election.

"People could not vote in the last three elections. There was a fake parliament; fake MPs and a fake Speaker. The whole country got their voice back, which was taken away forcibly," said Yunus.

Photo: PID

During the meeting, Rupa also enquired about the reform initiatives undertaken by the interim government and the political parties' participation in those initiatives.

Yunus told Rupa about the repression of the people during the regime of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and explained how it led to the July uprising.


James Goldman, deputy high commissioner and development director of the British High Commission in Dhaka, was also present at the meeting.

Earlier, Rupa met Special Envoy to Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi, BIDA Chairman Ashik Mahmud Chowdhury, and Senior Secretary for SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed over trade and investment in Bangladesh.

A delegation from UKBCCI is currently on a three-day visit to Bangladesh.

UKBCCI Chairman Iqbal Ahmed OBE and UKBCCI President MG Moula Mia are leading the delegation.

Siddiqi invited British businesspeople, including those of Bangladesh origin, to invest in the country, saying the interim government has undertaken sweeping reforms to attract foreign direct investment.​

 

[Saif]

No alternative to early elections to uphold rights of people: Gayeshwar

There is no alternative to holding an early election to ensure the rights of the people of the country, BNP Standing Committee Member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy has said. "The longer the elections are delayed, the more the fascist Hasina will continue with her conspiracies," he said. The BNP leader ma

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

No alternative to early elections to uphold rights of people: Gayeshwar
UNB
Published :
Jan 04, 2025 21:19
Updated :
Jan 04, 2025 21:19

There is no alternative to holding an early election to ensure the rights of the people of the country, BNP Standing Committee Member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy has said.

"The longer the elections are delayed, the more the fascist Hasina will continue with her conspiracies," he said.

The BNP leader made the remarks while distributing blankets to the cold-stricken people at Baghair School Ground in Dhaka's Keraniganj.

The struggle for the people's right to vote is far from over, said Gayeshwar, adding that they must unite and continue the fight to come to power.

He further said the people will bring back democracy in the country through the exercise of their right to vote.

Elected representatives are needed to make the reforms undertaken by the interim government sustainable, he added.

"Those representatives will work to fulfill the expectations and all the needs of the people."

Gayeshwar said that apart from the main issue, some intellectuals are working on other issues of the interim government, which will not bring any benefit. "If they try to work on everything, none of them will be successful."

He also commented that there is no need for new reforms.

The meeting was chaired by South Keraniganj Thana BNP member Raihan Mia.

Among others, Tegaria Union BNP president Khorshed Zamindar, former member secretary of Dhaka District Chhatra Dal Pavel Mollah, senior joint convener of South Keraniganj Thana Jubo Dal Advocate Shahin Rahman, joint convener Selim Mollah, Tegaria Union Jubo Dal organizing secretary Mahbub Kajal were also present.​

 

[Saif]

Govt preparing for both nat’l, local elections

The interim government is simultaneously preparing for national and local body elections, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus told European Investment Bank [EIB] Vice-President Nicola Beer yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Govt preparing for both nat’l, local elections
Says chief adviser

The interim government is simultaneously preparing for national and local body elections, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus told European Investment Bank [EIB] Vice-President Nicola Beer yesterday.

He said this when Beer called on him at state guesthouse Jamuna, according to the press wing of the Chief Adviser's Office.

Earlier, Prof Yunus said the national elections would be held either at the end of this year or by the first half of next year.

He sought EIB's help in tackling corruption, the green transition in energy, and formulating a broader plan for the Sundarbans mangrove forest and the surrounding region and river system.

The chief adviser also sought EIB support in building facilities at Chittagong Port for the development of the people in eastern Bangladesh and water management in northern Bangladesh.

He said the development of the port will also benefit eastern India and Myanmar.

Beer assured of EIB help in carrying out vital reforms the government has undertaken. "We have come in a very challenging time; we back the interim government and its reform agenda."

Pledging support, she said the EU has the technical expertise.

During the visit, Prof Yunus recalled his meeting with EU President Ursula von der Leyen on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York in September last year when they had discussed possible areas of support in the fight against corruption and Bangladesh's increased shift towards renewable energy from fossil fuel.

He also noted his recent meeting with EU envoys in December last year when many areas of cooperation were discussed.

Special Envoy to Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Chairman Ashik Mahmud Chowdhory, Senior Secretary for SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed, Economic Relations Division Secretary Shahriar Kader Siddiky, and EU Ambassador Michael Miller, were among others, present on the occasion.​

 

[Saif]

BNP, LDP concerned over govt focus on local polls over nat'l elections

The liaison committee meeting, chaired by BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, was held at the BNP chairperson's office in Gulshan, attended by five LDP leaders

www.thedailystar.net

BNP, LDP concerned over govt focus on local polls over nat'l elections

Photo: BNP Media Cell

The BNP and Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) yesterday held a meeting to address concerns over the government's focus on local government elections instead of national polls.

The liaison committee meeting, chaired by BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, was held at the BNP chairperson's office in Gulshan, attended by five LDP leaders.

Discussions focused on countering student-led narratives that reportedly undermine the BNP and its allies.

LDP pledged to politically address these narratives, which have been gaining traction among the public, said sources.

The two parties strongly criticised the government's push to prioritise local elections, calling it "an attempt to mislead the public".

On Wednesday, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus said the interim government was preparing for both national and local elections.

However, BNP leaders emphasised the need to prioritise national polls and urged the LDP to maintain a strong stance on this issue.

They also raised questions about the funding and use of private vehicles by student leaders at public events.

The BNP is set to meet members of Jatiyatabadi Samamona Jote today.​

 

[Saif]

A 10-step proposal for election road map 2025

The proposed road map outlines a structured approach to achieving a credible electoral process and underscores the urgency of collaborative action.

www.thedailystar.net

A 10-step proposal for election road map 2025

The National Parliament Building of Bangladesh. Photo: STAR

Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, navigating a tumultuous journey marked by political uncertainty, precarious law and order situation, and economic disruption and downturn. The events of the past year, from the July uprising that ousted the Awami League government to the appointment of an interim administration led by Nobel Laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, have rekindled hopes of a freer, fairer and more democratic future. Yet, as we step into 2025, it is evident that the challenges of political instability, economic stagnation, and governance inefficiencies have not been fully addressed, casting a shadow over the nation's prospects. The looming uncertainty and resulting anxiety do not bode well for a country on a tricky path to transition from an autocratic regime to hopefully a democratically elected government that will govern well and fulfil people's legitimate socioeconomic and other aspirations.

Despite the interim government's assurances of electoral reforms and democratic progress, ambiguity persists regarding the timeline for the next parliamentary election. While the chief adviser's announcement of potential election dates in late 2025 or first half of 2026 offers some clarity, conflicting demands from major political parties like the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and divergent visions within the administration have sown seeds of discord. The lack of consensus on the electoral road map risks further polarising the political landscape, undermining the very stability the interim government was tasked to foster.

The reform commission tasked with delivering systemic changes in governance and economic management represents a critical opportunity to recalibrate the nation's trajectory. However, its progress has been slow, and the extension of its tenure until January 15 highlights the complexity of the task. Meanwhile, inflationary pressures, high interest rates, and stagnating private investment continue to erode the purchasing power of citizens and discourage economic growth. The business community remains apprehensive, with political instability and law-and-order concerns threatening both trade and investment.

The stakes are high, and the need for leadership is paramount. A transparent and inclusive electoral process is essential to mitigate tensions and pave the way for democratic renewal. Without this, the country risks prolonged instability that could jeopardise both political stability and economic progress. It is not clear to this author why providing a road map has become such a big issue for the interim government, whose main task is to hold a free, fair, credible and participatory election while initiating reforms that, among others, would ensure that we never go back to the dark ages of repressive rule that was unleashed in 2009-2024. Common sense says that they are not mutually exclusive and can be achieved in tandem if the political parties are willing to walk the talk on reform. Unfortunately, their poor history of reform and often misrule make people legitimately apprehensive of their true intent.

As a concerned, conscientious citizen compelled by a sense of responsibility, this author proposes a suggestive electoral road map that hopefully can serve as a good starting point for both the interim government and political parties to come together and provide the general public clarity on where we are heading as a nation in 2025 and beyond. In providing the road map, I have mostly relied on the analysis of historical data from previous credible elections held in 1991, 1996, 2001 and 2008. With the reform commission's tenure extended until January 15, the road map and suggestions will hopefully aid the government in navigating this crucial phase. For the sake of simplicity, the road map is laid out in the diagram, which is then used to walk through the steps in detail.


The proposed 10-step election road map

After the submission of reports by all the reform commissions by January 15, 2025 (except the judiciary reform commission), the proposed road map commences with 10 clearly identified phases between January 15 and October 10, 2025, to complete the journey from initiation of reform measures to transition to democracy.


1. Jan 15-23: Reform commission reports

In this phase, political parties will review the reports and recommendations submitted by the reform commissions. To ensure ownership of the reform process by the political parties, they will send representatives to participate in the consultation process with the commissions. Representation criteria are suggested based on electoral performance in the past credible elections (1991, 1996, 2001 and 2008) and the number of members of parliament (MPs) elected by each party. It is proposed that parties with the largest representation in any of these four parliaments should be invited to send three representatives for consultation with each reform commission, while other smaller parties will send one representative per commission. Since student representatives are already in the reform commissions, their representation has been ensured through existing arrangements, and it is up to the interim government as to what kind of role they would play in this process. Similarly, whether the Awami League and Jatiya Party will be invited is a matter of decision by the interim government.

These recommendations are meant to provide a flexible framework, open to adaptation, to ensure that all stakeholders are effectively represented in the reform process. It is equally important that some criteria be used, as otherwise inviting too many political parties—particularly those with hardly any track record of proven popular support—will make discussion and negotiation between the reform commission and political parties unnecessarily complex and even infructuous.

2. Jan 26-30: Consultation process

Political parties will engage in consultations with the reform commissions to discuss the proposed reform measures. This collaborative approach aims to build national consensus on necessary reforms, ensuring that all stakeholders have a voice in the process. Unless the political parties genuinely subscribe to the reform measures and are willing to make them effective through passing in parliament, all work of these commissions will just be another bundle of paperwork with no practical relevance for the people.

3. Feb 2-6: Reform measures finalisation

During this phase, political parties and the government will finalise the agreed-upon reforms. As an intent of goodwill, the political parties will sign the agreed reforms, which they commit themselves to implementing, if and when they are in power after the elections.

4. Feb 10: Reform process formalisation

The government will complete formalities related to reform proposals, including issuing official gazette notifications that should formalise the agreed-upon changes, setting the stage for implementation.

5. Feb 11 onwards: Reform process initiation

The government will initiate the implementation of institutional and administrative reforms. Due legal processes will be undertaken by the next parliament, ensuring continuity of the reforms that were agreed upon in the February 10 official declaration.

6. Feb 15-Aug 30: Election Commission

For the Election Commission (EC), the following steps are crucial for ensuring a transparent and inclusive electoral process.

* Voter list update: The EC will create an accurate voter list by verifying data through biometric IDs and adding newly eligible voters. It will also remove duplicates and deceased individuals to prevent fraud. Drawing lessons from 2008, when a complete voter list overhaul led to the registration of more than eight crore voters, the modernised systems in place today are expected to make this process more streamlined and less time-consuming.

* Resource mobilisation: The EC will allocate essential resources and polling logistics, with a focus on ensuring accessibility, particularly in underserved areas, to effectively accommodate participation of all voters.

* Field-level appointment: Trained field officials will be appointed to manage voter registration and oversee polling logistics and administration.

* Consultation with political parties: The EC will engage with political parties to build consensus on key election-related matters, fostering trust and collaboration.

* Announcement of election schedule: After completing preparations, the EC will announce the election schedule, allowing political parties to undertake campaigns and inform voters of their political manifesto.

7. Apr 1: Armed forces

The armed forces are to return to barracks but remain available as a strike force, with selective deployment, if necessary, particularly during elections. The prolonged presence of armed forces in public life goes against the spirit of both their service code of conduct and the democratic values of a country heading towards a credible election.

8. Oct 1: Parliamentary election

The parliamentary election will be conducted to establish a representative government. Marking a long-overdue step in addressing the Bangladeshi people's right to a fair and democratic electoral process. Between now and then, there are almost 10 months, which is three times more than the average life of the caretaker government that was mandated under the constitution for holding elections until it was revoked by the Awami League.

9. Oct 3-9: Declaration of results

Within this time frame, election results will be tabulated and officially announced through gazette notifications by the EC.

10. Oct 10: Convening of 13th parliament

The newly elected parliament will convene, signifying the restoration of democratic governance and the beginning of a new legislative term focused on implementing the agreed-upon reforms.

The road ahead

An elected government is indispensable for safeguarding Bangladesh's democratic identity, ensuring accountable leadership, and meeting people's socioeconomic aspirations. It is vital to restore stability, addressing critical national challenges, and rebuilding public confidence. The proposed road map outlines a structured approach to achieving a credible electoral process and underscores the urgency of collaborative action to secure a sustainable democratic future.

Delay and deferral without a legitimate reason cannot bode well for the country. Nor would it be wise for the political parties not to finally rise to the occasion and irrevocably commit themselves to the much-needed reforms, without which the supreme sacrifice made by students and people in July-August risks going in vain. We lost one such opportunity in 1991 and can't repeat the same mistake in 2025.

Prof Syed Munir Khasru is chairman of the Institute for Policy, Advocacy, and Governance (IPAG), an international think tank.​

 

[Saif]

Is rift between BNP and Jamaat deepening amid looming election?

With the Awami League absent from the political stage following the August 5 (2024) political changeover, the two long-standing allies, BNP and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, appear to be drifting apart as they vie for dominance ahead of the upcoming elections, according to political analysts. &n

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Is rift between BNP and Jamaat deepening amid looming election?
UNB
Published :
Jan 11, 2025 17:23
Updated :
Jan 11, 2025 17:23

With the Awami League absent from the political stage following the August 5 (2024) political changeover, the two long-standing allies, BNP and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, appear to be drifting apart as they vie for dominance ahead of the upcoming elections, according to political analysts.

They said a deepening rift between the BNP and Jamaat is taking centre stage, with their leaders trading sharp criticisms, signalling a new polarisation in the country's political landscape.

Political analysts also observed that while BNP and Jamaat have had conflicts in the past, the level of hostility between them this time is unprecedented in recent years as both parties seek to assert their political power.

They also predicted that Jamaat may try to forge an alliance with Islamist parties to emerge as a strong opposition in the 13th parliament if Awami League fails to stage a comeback in politics ahead of the election.

However, they are not ruling out the possibility of Jamaat contesting the polls under BNP's alliance if the Awami League can engage in politics and join the election race.

Despite the current strain, senior leaders from both BNP and Jamaat told UNB that they do not want to damage their unity since they believe any division could ease the Awami League's return to politics.

The conflict between the two parties intensified after the mass uprising, primarily surrounding the Islamic bank takeover and the dispute over taking credit for the uprising.

Following this, Jamaat leaders accused the BNP of "grabbing and extortion" across the country.

BNP initially refrained from commenting, but on December 29, BNP senior leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi alleged that not only India but also several political parties, including those opposed to the 1971 Liberation War, were trying to exploit the political turmoil for their own gain.

Rizvi also accused Jamaat of being involved in taking over various institutions, including banks, and engaging in tender manipulation. In response, Jamaat issued a statement refuting these allegations.

The discord continued as Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman at an event in Rangpur on December 23 said there are only two tested patriotic forces in the country-- one is the army, the other is Jamaat-e-Islami.

Later, Rizvi termed the Jamaat chief's comment ridiculous and raised questions about the role of the "Islamist party" in the 1971 Liberation War.

At a programme on Thursday, BNP senior leader Maj (Retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed slammed Jamaat for trying to justify its role in 1971 instead of offering an apology.

Supporters of both parties have been particularly active on social media, exchanging harsh words and fueling the growing hostility between them.

The BNP and Jamaat have had an enduring relationship, especially during the 1991 national election, and their formal coalition was formed in 1999. They remained politically aligned until the dissolution of their 20-party alliance before the 12th national election.

For quite some time, there has been a noticeable gap between the two parties, especially since the BNP dissolved the 20-party alliance in December 2022, to carry out a simultaneous movement with many other parties, including some left-leaning ones.

BNP-Jamaat relations also got strained in 2018, as BNP formed Jatiya Oikyafront with Dr Kamal Hossain-led Gonoforum and some other parties, ignoring Jamaat.

Jamaat also harboured resentment towards BNP due to its silence over the arrest and execution of Jamaat's top leaders for crimes against humanity during the 1971 Liberation War. However, the differences were later resolved following a high-level meeting, but now, tensions have resurfaced.

Some BNP leaders said that Jamaat Amir first attacked the BNP with his comments shortly after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, stating that although one oppressor had left, another should not take the nation's reins.

They said the Jamaat chief also criticised the BNP in September when the party demanded an early election, prompting BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir to respond, saying that those with no public support do not want the election.

BNP leaders said though they are actively vocal about the election roadmap and early election, Jamaat wants the election to be delayed with their evil intention.

They said Jamaat is also now seeking local body elections before the national election, which goes against the stance of the BNP.

Contacted, BNP Standing Committee member Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku said it is natural for BNP leaders and workers to feel resentment over the negative remarks made by Jamaat leaders.

"Jamaat has not been a rival of BNP in electoral calculations in the last 50 years, but it seems the party has started considering BNP as a rival," he observed.

Tuku said Jamaat leaders should be more cautious with their political statements as the BNP is focused on uniting pro-democratic forces for the nation's greater good.

Talking to UNB Jamaat-e-Islami Publicity Affairs Secretary Adv Motiur Rahman Akand said some BNP leaders are making derogatory comments against Jamaat by using outdated words and terms.

"The people of the country have not accepted such old narratives about Jamaat. Had they accepted these outdated statements, Jamaat's popularity and organisational expansion would not have increased," Akand said.

He said some BNP leaders are attacking Jamaat out of jealousy and envy, as it is increasingly gaining popularity.

Akand, however, claimed that although some leaders are engaging in verbal exchanges, both parties remain united in the greater interest of the nation.

"There is no rift between the top leaders of the two parties. I also believe the relationship between the two parties has not deteriorated. Some leaders are making comments out of frustration and ego. This is a temporary stance. The original unity remains intact," the Jamaat leader said.

Dr Shamsul Alam, a professor of government and politics at Jahangirnagar University, said Jamaat is trying to stimulate its grassroots and expand its organisation by making negative comments against the BNP in the absence of the Awami League.

He said the pro-Jamaat student body Chhatra Shibir is also trying to establish its supremacy on all educational campuses, challenging BNP's student wing Chhatra Dal.

"I think there is a rift at the grassroots level of the two parties, not at the centres, in the changed situation. But before the election, either both parties will reunite, or there will be a new polarisation," he said.​