[🇧🇩] Forming Election Commission/Conducting Elections

[Saif]

Polls in 6 months unrealistic: Sarjis

Holding elections within the next six months is unrealistic, said Sarjis Alam, chief organiser of Jatiya Nagorik Committee, yesterday at an event in Panchagarh.

www.thedailystar.net

Polls in 6 months unrealistic: Sarjis

Holding elections within the next six months is unrealistic, said Sarjis Alam, chief organiser of Jatiya Nagorik Committee, yesterday at an event in Panchagarh.

"Our demand should not be limited to holding an election after such a big uprising at the cost of so much blood, lives and everything," he said.

"It is simply impossible to update the voter list and reform the judicial system within the six months," he added. However, he said they will not disagree if the next general election is held within a logical time, reports BSS.

Sarjis said the interim government announced that the election would be held by mid-2026, "If they consider holding the election two to four months earlier [early 2026], it would be logical," he said.

Sarjis said the Election Commission, judiciary, and law enforcement agencies need to be reformed to ensure a transparent election.

"We believe that the elections we are hoping for will align with the people's expectations and aspirations, but only after the necessary reforms are implemented," he added.

Sarjis also said groups comprising citizens from every district and upazila will be formed across the country to prevent corruption and irregularities.

He said Rangpur division, including Panchagarh, has faced significant neglect in development over the past 16 years.

"The people of Panchagarh deserve what is rightfully theirs, and we will work to secure that," he said.​

 

[Saif]

UNDP interested in training election agents: EC secretary

The EC secretary met with a UNDP delegation led by UNDP resident representative Stefan Liller at the EC Secretariat

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UNDP interested in training election agents: EC secretary

FILE VISUAL: SALMAN SAKIB SHAHRYAR

The United Nations Development Programme wants to extend support in training the polling agents of all candidates, not political parties, ahead of the next general election, said Election Commission Secretary Akhtar Ahmed today.

"No training for parties. If we can work together [train] with the agents of the parties who will be at the polling stations, we will get better results. They [UN electoral need assessment team] have received such demand from the field," he said.

The EC secretary said this replying to a question from reporters after his meeting with a UNDP delegation led by UNDP resident representative Stefan Liller at the EC Secretariat in the capital's Agargaon area.

Akhtar said the UNDP team sat with the EC after 10 days to inform the electoral need assessment report.

"They came back today after 10 days and gave us feedback. They talked to various political parties and civil society. They saw the situation firsthand. Based on this, they decided to provide us with some assistance," he said.

The EC senior secretary said the UNDP will support the commission over some logistics such as cameras, computers, hardware; and training to develop skills of the officials and also stakeholders.

The UNDP wants to provide assistance over training of agents of all candidates, he added.

Following meetings with the election commissioners and EC officials on January 14, the UNDP started assessing the needs to provide assistance to the EC to hold the next parliamentary elections.

The need assessment was completed within 10 days following talks with the commission and other stakeholders, including civil society, academicians and political parties.

Earlier, the Election Commission sent the United Nations a letter requesting assistance before the UN could provide technical assistances to the commission.​

 

[Saif]

Prof Yunus stresses mechanism for free polls in Bangladesh

Chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has stressed the need for establishing a mechanism so that everyone in Bangladesh can vote freely and fairly, without any interruptions or threats.

www.newagebd.net

Prof Yunus stresses mechanism for free polls in Bangladesh
New Age Desk 24 January, 2025, 15:32

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus joined conversation with the founder of the World Economic Forum Klaus Schwab in Switzerland on Thursday. | BSS photo

CA returns home today

Chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has stressed the need for establishing a mechanism so that everyone in Bangladesh can vote freely and fairly, without any interruptions or threats.

He put the emphasis during a one-on-one conversation with the founder of the World Economic Forum Klaus Schwab at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos of Switzerland on Thursday, said a Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha report.

Yunus is set to depart Davos for Dhaka Friday night (Switzerland time) via Zurich International Airport, concluding his busy four-day schedule at the WEF annual meeting, which included nearly 50 engagements, reported United News of Bangladesh.

Permanent representative of Bangladesh to the UN in Geneva ambassador Tareq Md Ariful Islam would see him off at the Zurich International Airport. Yunus would reach Dhaka Saturday evening, the UNB report said.

According to the BSS report, while sharing the background stories of the July mass uprising with the global audience, the chief adviser said that the students took to the streets in Bangladesh in the July last year with a simple demand-equal opportunity for jobs.

He narrated how the students during their protest painted graffiti on the walls of Dhaka, expressing their desires and dreams.

Yunus said that all the young people who became voters over the last 16 years did not get a chance to vote, which was very unfortunate.

Presenting the reform agendas of the incumbent interim government, the 84-year-old economist and the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner said that unless they knew what kind of election the country’s people wanted, they could not go into polls.

Mentioning that the government was waiting to hold an election, he said that the country’s people had to decide the process then – whether they would go for the short agenda or the long agenda.

The chief adviser said that they had targeted the end of 2025 for the election to take place if people went for a quick reform agenda.

‘If people say, no - we need a longer list of reforms; we need another six months,’ he said.

Terming the present generation as the most powerful generation in human history, the chief adviser said that it was the generation of world having a huge potential.

About the role of students, he stated that technology had transformed them; they were no longer just Bangladeshi youths but they had become part of a global generation.

‘We define that new Bangladesh and we are committed to creating that new Bangladesh,’ professor Yunus said.

The chief adviser said that demands from the movement reflected a desire to move beyond the old Bangladesh and work towards creating a new one.

He talked about a consensus commission to build national unity, and based on the consensus of all parties and civil society organisations, they would prepare the ‘July Charter’, a document named after the month of July when a mass uprising took place in Bangladesh.

Former US vice-president Al Gore, who has emerged as one of the world’s top climate change activists, praised the global ‘Three Zero’ movement launched by professor Yunus to combat carbon emissions, wealth concentration, poverty and unemployment while he met Yunus on the same day, said another BSS report.

During the meeting, he vowed to support Bangladesh’s reform programmes taken by the Yunus’s interim government, chief adviser’s deputy press secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told media.

They discussed the July uprising, climate change, mitigation of the adverse impacts of global warming, the reform initiatives undertaken by the Bangladesh interim government, and election and geopolitical issues.

The former US vice-president expressed his support for the Bangladesh’s reform programmes and fixing Bangladesh’s institutions and its democratic transition through a free and fair election.

Professor Yunus handed him a copy of ‘The Art of Triumph’, the celebrated art book on graffiti and wall paintings drawn during the July uprising.

Al Gore lauded the ‘amazing’ book and the revolutionary spirit of the Bangladeshi young people. ‘I looked at every page of the book,’ he said.

On Friday, American investor Ray Dalio, founder of Marino Management and Dalio Family Office, Amer Alireza, chairman of the executive committee, Xenel Group (Red Sea Gateway Terminal Company), met Yunus during the summit. They discussed areas of cooperation, according to BSS.

The chief adviser is scheduled to attend seven events on his final day of his visit to Switzerland on the day.​

 

[Saif]

National elections or local elections - which first?

Certain parties aspiring for power feel that the interim government wants to hold the local elections first so that they can stay in power for an extended period

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National elections or local elections - which first?

The mayors and chairmen have been removed. The people cannot avail basic services. If the national election takes place after a year or a year and a half, why should the people be deprived of these services for so long?
Mohiuddin Ahmad
Published: 24 Jan 2025, 15: 24

We are familiar with two types of government. One is the local government and the other is the national or central government. But in general we mean the latter when we refer to the government. Government implies people in Dhaka calling the shots. They are in charge of the secretariat, the parliament and the judiciary. And there is also the jail, the intelligence, the police and the military.

There are three tiers to the local government -- zila parishad at the district level, upazila parishad at the upazila level and union parishad at the union level. In the small towns there is the poursashava (municipality). In the larger cities there are the city corporations. These are ostensibly called government. In our country the local government runs at the behest of the central government. It is a sort of extension of the government, the central government's flunky at a local level. The government officials can dismiss the local government elected representative if they so desire.

All said and done, the local government does have importance. After all, it is at the doorstep of the citizens. Take the union parishad, for instance. If all goes well, the election to the union parishad is held after every five years. This has been in place since the days of the British rule. It was called union board at the time. During the Pakistan rule it was called union council. Its scope of work has increased, in the meantime and so has its expenditure and allocations. The head of the union board had been the president. During the British rule, president meant the president of the union or district board. Now the president means the head of state, sitting in Bangabhaban. At the local level the presidents are now chairmen.

There has been a lot of discussion and debate over which is to come first, reforms or elections. Added to this is the debate over whether national elections are to be held first, or local elections.

The civil society and politicians in this country have long been taking about empowerment of the local government. Self-rule is the basis of empowerment. For example, the union parishad is to be independent. It will earn revenue, draw up a budget, spend accordingly and provide services. That has not happened. Those who sit in the capital and rule, that an insatiable hunger. They want to keep the entire country within their grasp. They do not have the mentality to share power for delegate responsibility. The central government is sovereign. The local government is its subservient agent.

When there is a government in Dhaka, it does all its service-related work through the union parishad or the upazila parishad. If all this is in their control, they feel safe and sound in Dhaka. That is why whoever becomes a member of parliament, wants to see loyal persons of his liking in the local government. In that way he can establishment his ownership over services and resources at a local level.

The union parishad is the basis of a parliament member's power. The local leaders are the sources of the parliament member's muscle and money. During the parliamentary election, they ensure the votes. And by keeping up close ties with the national leaders, the local leaders keep themselves safe and also use this 'political patronage' in their own interests. This has been going on down the decades.

There was a time when the most educated, decent and well-bred person would be the local government leader. In many cases he would spend from his own picket for the people's welfare. Those sound like fairytales now. In most cases it is seen that the worse persons of the village is "elected". He manages this through muscle power and the patronage of the concerned leader.

The local government is considered to be the golden goose for the members of parliament. There are many politicians who cannot sleep at night, concerned about the welfare of the people. They keep this business running in their worldly interests.

Things turned topsy-turvy in the country in August last year. We think we have become independent anew and so things cannot carry on like before. But not everyone is thinking in this manner. Many are changing, while many remain just the same as before. There has been such an upheaval, so many people have died, but that makes no difference to them. One cannot vehemently say that there will be a qualitative change to the politics of power.

There has been a lot of discussion and debate over which is to come first, reforms or elections. Added to this is the debate over whether national elections are to be held first, or local elections. Those who hope to form the government through the national elections, want to see the national elections first. They want the local government elections under the elected government.

For example, the military backed 1/11 caretaker government wanted to hold the upazila election before the national election. The larger parties, BNP and Awami League in particular, were unwilling. And so whatever was to happen, happened.

The Jatiya Sangsad (national parliament) election was held in December 2008. Awami League formed the government in 2009 and called for the upazila election. The Awami League-backed candidates forcefully won in almost all the upazilas. The election commission watched helplessly. The head of the commission ATM Shamsul Huda remarked that fair elections were not possible under a partisan government.

During the rule of Sheikh Hasina, the provision was put in place to contest in the local government election under party symbol. Hasina's sycophants reasoned that, this system exists in so-and-so countries, so what not here? And so, the local government system was ruined by holding the local elections on a party basis. Politicisation seeped down to every hearth and home. Who will explain to that them politics and politicisation are not one and the same thing?

Politicians have come up with a new contention nowadays, that a process of depoliticisation has been put in place. What election can there be by leaving out political parties? They do not take into consideration that the local government is a government for all, above party interests, where everyone can have access to services, and so there is really no question about party power there. Party means cronies, oligarchy. They want their cronies on control everywhere.

A local government free of political influence is problematic for politicians. Given the way they plot and plan their power graph, they feel they will be in a problem without control on the local government. That is why they are vehemently against the union parishad or upazila parishad election being held before the parliamentary election. How will they be able to collect votes for the national election if the local elections are held first, they ponder. There is the matter of funds too.

Certain parties aspiring for power feel that the interim government wants to hold the local elections first so that they can stay in power for an extended period. This is a conspiracy. General Ayub Khan and General Ershad stayed in power for long in this manner. That, of course, is a matter of apprehension. The interim government needs to make it clear that they have no political ambitions. It must be seen that in holding the local government elections, focus must not be shifted away from the national election.

Hasina's plots and plans were all disrupted with the fall of her government. Many of those supported and patronised by her government have now fled. The mayors and chairmen have been removed. The people cannot avail basic services. If the national election takes place after a year or a year and a half, why should the people be deprived of these services for so long? In that sense, the local government polls should be held as soon as possible. These elections should be held within April or May this year. Then the monsoons will arrive. At the same time, a date for the parliamentary polls can be fixed too.

• Mohiuddin Ahmad is a writer and researcher
• This column appeared in the print and online edition of Prothom Alo and has been rewritten for the English edition by Ayesha Kabir

 

[Saif]

AL won’t be allowed to run in nat’l polls

Calling the party fascist and anti-state, Mahfuj Alam, adviser to the interim government, yesterday said the Awami League would not be allowed to take part in the general election.

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AL won’t be allowed to run in nat’l polls
Says Adviser Mahfuj

Photo: Alam Palash

Calling the party fascist and anti-state, Mahfuj Alam, adviser to the interim government, yesterday said the Awami League would not be allowed to take part in the general election.

"The elections will be contested among pro-Bangladesh groups only. All political parties, whether BNP-Jamaat or others, along with student organisations, workers, women, and scholars who are pro-Bangladesh, will establish future governance through a fair electoral process."

He made these remarks while exchanging greetings with students and locals at Hajiganj Bazar in Chandpur, reports a correspondent in Chandpur.

"We're working to establish a stable democratic Bangladesh, free from Awami fascism. If the Awami League returns, fascism will return with it," said Mahfuj.

He claimed that the people of the country do not want to see the era of Sheikh Mujib or Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh anymore.

"The new Bangladesh rejects the fascist system. We want Bangladesh to remain in the hands of true patriots. There will be no place for pro-Delhi elements in Bangladesh," added Mahfuj.

The adviser further said they would soon start talks with political parties and stakeholders and hold elections to facilitate democratic transformation, after carrying out minimum reforms based on the report of reform commissions.

"It is our commitment to ensure justice to the killings during the July uprising and to carry out reform of the institutions that were destroyed by fascist Hasina. We are also committed to holding free and fair elections for the sake of democratic transition."

Mahfuj, however, said that if the election is held without minimum reforms to the institutions that Hasina used to perpetrate genocide and oppress people, those same institutions will remain in place.

Hajiganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Tapas Shil, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Hajiganj Police Station Mohiuddin Farooq, leaders of Students Against Discrimination and Jatiya Nagorik Committee were present.

Later in the day in Ramganj Government College in Lakshmipur, Mahfuj said there is no probability of military rule in Bangladesh, reports our Noakhali correspondent.

"We did not overthrow Hasina with the support of any state this time. We overthrew Hasina with the blood of the students and the people. We no longer need to obey anyone. We have brought independence in exchange for our own blood ... We will not bow to anyone again."​

 

[Saif]

Hold election soon to return country’s ownership to people: BNP

Bangladesh Nationalist Party standing committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Sunday called for the holding of general elections soon, emphasising the need for returning the country’s ownership to the people.

www.newagebd.net

Hold election soon to return country’s ownership to people: BNP
Staff Correspondent 27 January, 2025, 00:13

Bangladesh Nationalist Party standing committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Sunday called for the holding of general elections soon, emphasising the need for returning the country’s ownership to the people.

Besides, the party’s standing committee member, Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, urged students to avoid forming ‘King’s parties’ and instead establish political organisations independently, free from government influence.

Amir Khosru observed that democracy in Bangladesh cannot thrive without ensuring that the country’s ownership lies in the hands of its people.

He made these remarks at a discussion titled ‘The role of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in establishing multi-party democracy and a sovereign independent country’, organised by the National People’s Party at the National Press Club in the capital Dhaka on Sunday.

He cautioned that delaying the election could create confusion among the public, jeopardising the democratic process.

He said that it was the people, particularly students, had forced the fascist Awami League government to relinquish power.

‘There is no alternative to holding the election quickly. If delayed, it could lead to chaos, and democracy could collapse,’ he said, asserting that it is the people who will decide the future of governance in the country.

‘If anyone tries to seize the state power like Sheikh Hasina or Sheikh Mujibur Rahman did, they will be met with resistance,’ he added.

At a separate event organised by the Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal to mark the 89th birth anniversary of former president Ziaur Rahman at the Dhaka Reporters Unity, Hafiz urged for the political unity across various segments of society, including political leaders, students and the ordinary people, for greater national interests.

Hafiz highlighted the urgent need for electoral reforms, asserting that a free and fair election must be held without any further delay.

He observed that the necessary reforms could be completed within three months.

‘In 1971, we fought for an elected government. Why are we still debating the need for an elected government today?’ he questioned.

Hafiz also paid tribute to Ziaur Rahman, praising his leadership during the Liberation War of 1971, and reiterated the call for reforms to restore democracy in Bangladesh.

BNP joint secretary general Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie said that his party’s secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir’s demand for holding the next general elections under a neutral government was very much logical.

‘The country’s people want the same thing, for which the common people are fighting, struggling and waging movements. It will not be wise to counter the demand as it may create another critical time for the nation,’ he said.

He was addressing an annual sports competition programme at the Collegiate High School ground in Laxmipur.​

 

[Saif]

Take opportunity of improved business climate, urges CA Press Secy amid business leaders’ call for quick polls

Business leaders should concentrate on seizing the opportunity of the improved business climate created by the present government, said Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, on Sunday. He made these remarks during a press briefing when asked to comment on business leaders’ ple

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Take opportunity of improved business climate, urges CA Press Secy amid business leaders’ call for quick polls
FE Online Report
Published :
Jan 26, 2025 21:09
Updated :
Jan 26, 2025 21:21

Business leaders should concentrate on seizing the opportunity of the improved business climate created by the present government, said Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, on Sunday.

He made these remarks during a press briefing when asked to comment on business leaders’ plea to hold general elections as soon as possible.

In response to another question, Mr Alam said that the closure of ready-made garment units has not hampered export growth, and most of the closed factories are owned by the oligarchs of the previous regime, who are either in jail or have fled the country.

They plundered banks and siphoned off millions of dollars, leaving workers unpaid, he noted.

Mr Alam also criticised Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, the home minister of the Sheikh Hasina regime, calling him a “butcher” for ordering an indiscriminate killing of students, children, workers and innocent people during the July Revolution.

“Providing shelter to such a butcher is not at all acceptable,” he remarked.

Regarding the Chief Advisor’s recent visit to Davos, his press secretary mentioned that the Chief Adviser held meetings with top global business firms on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, where they showed huge interest in investing in Bangladesh.

He added that the government is serious about improving port management to lure more foreign investors and enhance the business climate.

Replying to a question about rumours on social media claiming that the advisers of the interim government, including the Chief Adviser, fled the country, Mr Alam said these rumours are being spread by elements of the previous regime who have already fled the country.

He informed that the government is planning to hold an international conference on the Rohingya issue in Dhaka in September next.

The Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary said the Chief Adviser, during his meetings with top world leaders, sought their assistance in repatriating the laundered money.

However, he noted that it would be a “lengthy procedure.”​

 

[Saif]

Election Commission has no favourites: EC Sanaullah

The Election Commission has no favourites, nor it is on anyone's side, said Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Mohammad Sanaullah today

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Election Commission has no favourites: EC Sanaullah

Photo: Star

The Election Commission has no favourites, nor it is on anyone's side, said Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Mohammad Sanaullah today.

"We stand for fairness and justice... we want to return people their voting rights," he said at a meeting with data collectors, supervisors, and new voters on the occasion of the voter list update programme.

The event was held at the Panchagarh deputy commissioner's conference room.

He said, "The people will decide who their representatives will be -- not anyone else. This will not happen in the Election Commission office, the district commissioner's veranda, the superintendent of police's porch, or in any intelligence agency office."

He said they are committed to hold a free and fair election. However, he said this was a significant task and could not be achieved by the EC alone.

"The Election Commission will lead from the front and coordinate, but the implementation of this work will be carried out by everyone at the grassroots level," he added.​

 

[Saif]

EC preparing to hold polls with year-end on mind

The Election Commission is preparing with an aim to hold the next national election in December, said Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah, an election commissioner, yesterday.

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EC preparing to hold polls with year-end on mind
Says Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah

The Election Commission is preparing with an aim to hold the next national election in December, said Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah, an election commissioner, yesterday.

"The chief adviser in his speech has already indicated that it might be possible to conduct the national election at the end of this year or the first half of 2026. So, we are taking preparation targeting to hold the polls in December," he said.

"But it's a matter of [political] consensus as to when the election will be held," the election commissioner said while talking to reporters after a meeting on updating the voter list at the Thakurgaon Road Degree College.

When the polls will be held lies with the government, not the EC, Sanaullah said.

"But we will ensure that those performing election duties at the grassroots level act professionally and impartially," he said, adding, "Our aim is to hold a free, fair, and credible election."

The election commissioner also hoped that the task of updating the voter list would be completed in March.

At another event in Dinajpur, Sanaullah urged the EC officials to make sure that Rohingyas do not get in the voter list.

Meanwhile, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin yesterday said they do not want the EC's independence enshrined in the constitution to be compromised.

He told reporters after a meeting with European Union Ambassador Michael Miller at the EC office.

The EU ambassador also opined that the EC should remain independent. Otherwise, the nation's expectations cannot be fulfilled, the CEC said.

While speaking at a programme on Sunday, Nasir said that there is no doubt that the EC's independence will be curtailed if some of the Electoral Reform Commission's recommendations are implemented.

On January 15, the reform commission submitted its report to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.

During yesterday's meeting, the EU enquired about the EC's preparation for the democratic transition through the upcoming election. It also wanted to know the EC's overall preparations for the next election, including the process of voter registration, the CEC said.

"They [EU] expressed their willingness to assist in every way possible for Bangladesh's progress. They want the democratic transition to take place. They assured us of their full support in this journey."

Nasir added that the EU would send personnel, conduct a needs assessment, and deploy a mission to evaluate the situation before informing the EC about what kind of assistance they will provide.

The EU also expressed its desire to send observers during the polls, the CEC said adding, "We have assured them of a free and fair election. We have dedicated all our efforts to ensure a transparent, impartial, and acceptable election."

Michael Miller told reporters, "And I have come with a message of support for the reform ambitions of the interim government for holding an election transparent manner in line with international standards."

[Our correspondents in Dinajpur and Thakurgaon contributed to this report.]​

 

[Saif]

Don't enrol Rohingyas as voters, EC Sanaullah tells officials in Dinajpur

"Ensure that no foreign nationals, particularly Rohingyas, are included in the voter list," he said

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Don't enrol Rohingyas as voters, EC Sanaullah tells officials in Dinajpur

Election Commissioner Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah today urged Election Commission officials in Dinajpur to not enrol Rohingyas as voters.

"Ensure that no foreign nationals, particularly Rohingyas, are included in the voter list," he said.

Urging the officials to remove fake enrolment, duplicates, and foreign nationals from the voter rolls, he stressed that a transparent and accurate voter list is crucial for a fair election.

He made the remarks while speaking about various issues centring the next elections during separate meetings in Shilpakala Academy and Birganj upazila in Dinajpur. He was visiting Dinajpur today during his three-day tour of seven districts under the Rangpur division.

Stressing the need for encouraging female participation in the voter registration process, EC Sanaullah emphasised importance of preparing an accurate voter list and rebuilding public trust in the electoral process under the interim government.

He said, "The Election Commission is strongly committed to conducting a fair and credible election."

He reiterated the need to include the new generation in the voter list, aligning with the chief adviser's vision to ensure their active participation in the national elections.

However, the election commissioner raised concerns about the disparity between male and female voters, noting that the number of female voters currently is 30 lakh less than male voters.

"No eligible voter should be excluded due to technical issues," he stressed.

"We are determined to restore the credibility of all institutions, including the Election Commission, which has been questioned in the past due to controversial elections," he stated.

The meetings were attended by senior election officials, including Dinajpur Senior District Election Officer Md Kamrul Islam and Additional District Election Officer Md Aftabuzzaman.​

 

[Saif]

Election likely to be earlier than later

Scenarios point towards a December-January election

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Election likely to be earlier than later
Scenarios point towards a December-January election

File photo

As speculation swirls around the timing of the next general election, remarks from election commissioners, along with historical precedents, suggest that the much-anticipated 13th national election will likely be held in December or January.

Sources within the Election Commission said that they were considering December for the elections because going to the ballots between February and June might not be feasible on account of the Ramadan, HSC exams and the monsoon.

Usually, national elections do not take place during Ramadan, the month of fasting for Muslims. Also, election date is scheduled in such manner that the preceding three weeks of campaigning do not coincide with Ramadan days either. Electioneering during this time is typically avoided, as it seriously limits campaigning. Elections during Ramadan would mean low voters' participation and challenging campaign logistics.

Candidates get at least 21 days to campaign, and the Ramadan is set to begin on February 17 or 18 in 2026.

"If we follow the usual practice, we will not be able to hold the elections until mid-April. But that is not feasible as Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent public examinations usually begin in April. These exams take about a month," said a top election official.

Top election officials explained that it is customary to avoid dates that conflict with public board exams, religious festivals and weather conditions. Even the typical cyclone season is also avoided for holding elections.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Sunday noted that Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus said the next general election could be held at the end of this year or in the first half of next year, depending on the reforms political parties agree to.

If the election is to be held in December, all preparations, laws, and regulations must be finalised, and necessary arrangements must be made by October, he said, adding, "May–June is the rainy season, and elections have not been held during this time in the past."

Election Commissioner Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah on Tuesday was more precise when he said preparations for the national election are underway targeting December.

Senior election officials further mentioned that would be tight for the commission to hold elections before December, as there is a long 'to do list'. The commission will have to update electoral rolls, complete delimitation of constituencies, register new political parties, set up voting stations, organise a panel of polling officials, and, if necessary, amend electoral laws.

Adding to the complications, the EC must await outcomes of the reforms proposed by the commissions to determine the extent of changes required to electoral laws and logistics if any. Until these reforms are finalised, the EC cannot proceed with full-scale preparations.

The election chief on Sunday said that tasks like demarcation of parliamentary constituencies and political party registration take time. The commission has received numerous applications for delimitation, but it is unable to start working due to legal issues, he said.

"Still, we are confident. We have to overcome these challenges. We are doing our preliminary work and homework so that as soon as the rules of the game are fixed, we can jump into action," he said, adding that the EC has started the new voter registration process as well.

Past Elections

Bangladesh has witnessed 12 national elections since independence of which only two—the ones in 1986 and 1996—were not held in the typically dry months between October and March. Since the restoration of democracy in 1991, six of the seven national polls have been held during winter.

The first national election in independent Bangladesh was held on March 7, 1973. The next election was held on February 28, 1979, and the third election took place on May 7, 1986.

The fourth parliamentary elections were held on March 3, 1988, and the fifth general elections were held on February 27, 1991, under an interim government.

The sixth parliamentary election was held on February 15, 1996, and the seventh on June 12, 1996, under a caretaker government.

The election to the eighth parliament was held on October 1, 2001, the ninth parliamentary election was held on December 29, 2008, and the tenth election was held on January 5, 2014.

The eleventh parliamentary polls were held on December 30, 2018, and the 12th on January 7, 2024.

The seventh general election was held on June 12, 1996, barely four months after the sixth election as the Awami League and other opposition parties forced the ruling BNP-led government to step down and hand over to a caretaker government for conducting elections. The opposition parties had boycotted the February 1996 elections.

A caretaker government headed by former Chief Justice Mohammad Habibur Rahman was sworn in on April 3.

As Bangladesh inches closer to the election season and political quarters become more vocal for an election, scenarios point towards an increasing likelihood of the nation going to the ballots earlier, rather than later.​

 

[Saif]

Election date depends on reform progress, says press secretary

The timing of the 13th general election depends on the extent of reforms made by the interim government, Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said. Speaking at a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Wednesday, he presented the possibility of a one to one-a

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Election date depends on reform progress, says press secretary
bdnews24.com
Published :
Jan 29, 2025 22:11
Updated :
Jan 29, 2025 22:11

The timing of the 13th general election depends on the extent of reforms made by the interim government, Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said.

Speaking at a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Wednesday, he presented the possibility of a one to one-and-a-half-years wait for the forthcoming polls.

“We have repeatedly made our position clear. If fewer reforms are needed, the election can take place by December this year,” Shafiqul said.

“If the parties feel more reforms are necessary under this government, the process could extend by another six months, meaning the election may be held by June next year.

“The chief advisor and other advisors have reiterated this repeatedly.”

Journalists at the briefing questioned him about the election timeline, the government’s decision on seven government colleges, and the Awami League’s protest programmes.

Following the fall of the Awami League government in the face of a mass uprising, the Muhammad Yunus-led interim administration took charge with a pledge to implement reforms.

Over the past five months, the government has undertaken initiatives to reform the police, administration, judiciary, economy, and Constitution.

Throughout this period, the election date and the tenure of the caretaker administration have remained a pressing issue.

Political parties have repeatedly urged the government to complete the reforms swiftly and proceed with the election.

The BNP leaders have also intensified their calls for an early election.

In response to a question, the press secretary said: “The Election Commission is an independent body, and it has its own stance. There will be further discussions on the issue, but what is most crucial right now is the reform process.”

The reform commissions are expected to submit their reports by mid-February.

“Once the reports are received, the consensus commission will begin its work. The exact election date will be determined based on these reforms,” he concluded.​

 

[Saif]

Reforms vs election: A distracting debate

Those who place the election above reforms undervalue the vital need for the latter.

www.thedailystar.net

Reforms vs election: A distracting debate
We need and can have both by the year-end

VISUAL: SALMAN SAKIB SHAHRYAR

Recently, a debate in our political arena has been clouding our thinking. "No election before reforms" vs "No reforms if it delays the election" has our political players' attention engaged, distracting them from urgent actions. Exchanges between the respective proponents are now getting shriller and acrimonious. The truth is, we need both and can have both within the time frame of December 2025 or January 2026. People are firm and clear about not missing this unique opportunity to institute vital reforms, but they are also conscious about the complexity of the current situation and would prefer a more stable political and legal scenario.

Those who place the election above reforms undervalue the vital need for the latter. They tend to forget that the introduction of BAKSAL, two military interventions, the binary nature of our politics since the restoration of democracy in 1991, and the authoritarian rule for more than 15 years not only prevented reforms in areas like the judiciary, administration, police, etc, but reversed the process of making governance a public service and not a weapon in the ruler's hand. All our vital institutions need fundamental reforms—and urgently so. Let there be no doubt about it.

Contrarily, those who place reforms above the election do not truly understand the significance of a free and fair election and the absolute necessity of holding it as soon as possible as voters have been cheated of their right in the last three. It is also vital to put the country back on the track of having an elected government and parliament. The national election will restore people's right to choose who should and who should not rule them.It is a citizen's inalienable right to select which party and/or individual will be given the power to lead the country, govern it, spend our tax money, and introduce new policies and plans. Only a free and fair election can ensure it. How can we forget that, from the mountain of misgovernance by Sheikh Hasina, what triggered public anger the most was her fraudulent elections. Now, due to the students' popularity and Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus's wide acceptance, people have decided to wait to exercise their right to elect. But that wait is time-bound.

What elections also do is bring about the accountability of those who are placed in power and positions of decision-making. "Accountability" is perhaps the most ignored and undervalued word in our country's governance. Our government officials, who get all their perks and facilities and, most importantly, salary from our tax money, face no accountability. Our police, intelligence agencies and security apparatus have all the power to oppress the public, but the public has no right to ask if they are even remotely performing their tasks honestly and in line with the law. In every profession and sector, there are honourable exceptions whom we praise for being honest in spite of the system. But the overall system is rotten to the core.

How can we forget that, from the mountain of misgovernance by Sheikh Hasina, what triggered public anger the most was her fraudulent elections. Now, due to the students' popularity and Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus's wide acceptance, people have decided to wait to exercise their right to elect. But that wait is time-bound.

Free and fair elections are the only effective mechanism to make our political leaders accountable. It can be said that it did not work effectively in the past. With the proposed reforms instituted, it will be different in the future.

The interim government deserves kudos for setting up reform commissions in the most vital areas well in time. Four of them have already delivered their recommendations, while two others are expected soon. Some important committees have also shared their findings. What awaits us is the dialogue with political parties that the chief adviser has already planned. Recommendations on vital issues like the constitution, Election Commission, police and Anti-Corruption Commission are already in the public domain. All of them now await widespread discussion, which we think should start immediately.

However, when a national dialogue should be starting in earnest, the "reforms vs election" controversy has reemerged, and this time, unfortunately, in a tone that we should and need to avoid. The BNP's latest decision to launch a movement may lead to counter-movements, which may bring many factions to the streets. When things seem to be falling into place, such actions seem unnecessary.

The recent remark by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakrul Islam Alamgir about the interim government—that if it loses its neutrality, we must have a new one to conduct the election—took us all by surprise. The reasons he cited need to be examined, but we think the conclusion he made was a bit premature.

Mirza Fakrul's comments took a dramatic turn when Adviser Nahid Islam speculated as to whether or not BNP was making an indirect call for bringing back an army-backed government to hold the election, modelled after 1/11.

This comment, we think, took the discussion towards a confrontational direction. Instead of a greater understanding, attributing motives to the BNP, which was neither fair nor justified, has now led to a distance between the students and the BNP, which is, as Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul observed, "undesirable." If anybody, it was the BNP that suffered the most during 1/11. Given its experience, BNP would be the last political party to want the return of an army-backed caretaker government.

Vital and urgently necessary reform proposals are now in place. We urge all to begin serious discussions on them. Let's start with the one that has a built-in consensus: police reform. We want the police to be permanently changed from being an extension of the ruling party's oppressive mechanism to an institution that upholds law and order for the benefit of the people. As a public institution, the police must represent justice, not oppression. Many of the reform suggestions are timely, useful, and urgently needed. The reform process can easily start with the police and can be seen as an example for the other reforms to follow.

As for the judiciary (what we have been able to learn from media reports; the formal presentation of its report is yet to come) the idea of decentralising the High Court benches is a most timely one. The dictum "Justice delayed is justice denied" is a painful reality for most citizens who live outside Dhaka. Travel, stay, food and the high cost of lawyers put the higher judiciary literally out of reach for most people. Even when they make the effort, the procedural maze and the avoidable but casually imposed delays make our ordinary citizens puppets in the hands of the law, which is well exemplified by the 5.77 lakh cases pending at the court. Reported suggestions about appointments, work accountability, financial transparency of the judges and separate administration, supervision, etc will make the proposals most relevant. If there is a place where anti-discrimination needs implementation, it is here.

Public administration reforms are also an urgent need for us. Our administration never served the people but the ruling party of the day, and of course themselves. There are honest officials, but they are a small minority. Most are corrupt, inefficient and totally without accountability and monitoring. Reforms here would be most resisted, and hence must be pursued with determination.

Election reforms are of immediate concern and must be implemented fastest, compared to others.

The above examples—only a small part of the whole process—show how important the reform proposals are and how seriously and diligently we must pursue them.

As we pointed out earlier, we have almost a year in hand. If we use this time with efficiency, dedication, and seriousness, and refrain from getting embroiled in unnecessary issues, we can have both reforms and the election within the desired time frame, about which there is a widespread agreement.

We are aware that some sections will gain with an early election and others will not. It cannot be counted out that arguments of both the sides could also be based on these perceived benefits. But we have to put public interest above everything else. We cannot lose this opportunity and the momentum to reshape our future on the basis of democracy, equality, tolerance, and general prosperity.

We strongly urge all concerned not to further dig into this debate and concentrate fully on achieving both the reforms and the election, which will serve our national interest most effectively. We should set aside our differences and assist the interim government to move forward with speed and clarity to implement this duel agenda.

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

 

[Saif]

For stability, holding the national election should be prioritised

The interim government is not mandated to oversee local elections. Its primary responsibility is to conduct parliamentary elections.

www.thedailystar.net

For stability, holding the national election should be prioritised

The competitive nature of local politics, often driven by major political parties, frequently turns local elections into battlegrounds. FILE PHOTO: STAR

The debate surrounding the timing of local government elections in Bangladesh has intensified in recent weeks, with some advocating for holding them before the national election. Doing so, however, may not lead to more harm than good, as organising and completing local elections could delay the national election, which may further deteriorate the country's already fragile law and order situation and its political instability.

One of the most pressing concerns is the time and logistical complexity of conducting local elections. With over 4,500 union parishads, municipalities and city corporations across the country, the process would take approximately one and a half years to complete. That would inevitably push back the national elections, leaving citizens waiting even longer to elect a new government. Considering Bangladesh's current situation, such a delay could be dangerous: it risks disillusioning voters, prolonging an already tense political situation, and extending the period during which the unelected interim government remains in power.

Furthermore, local elections in Bangladesh have historically been plagued by violence and unrest. The competitive nature of local politics, often driven by major political parties, frequently turns these elections into battlegrounds, where violence is more of an expectation than an exception. Party-backed candidates, eager to assert control over local resources and power, often resort to muscle power, intimidation, and financial influence to secure victory. Given the current volatile political environment, it seems unlikely that this trend will change.

Therefore, holding local elections now, before the national election, would place additional strain on the already overburdened law enforcement agencies who are struggling to improve the law and order situation across the country. Bangladesh is already in the midst of a prolonged political crisis. Citizens have been deprived of their right to vote for over a decade, with elections in 2014, 2018 and 2024 either boycotted or contested by the opposition amid accusations of voter suppression and unfair practices. If local elections are allowed to take precedence, it would be a dereliction of duty to the people who have waited far too long for a fair and transparent national election.

Moreover, the interim government is not mandated to oversee local elections. Its primary responsibility is to conduct parliamentary elections, which are the only legitimate way for the people to restore democratic legitimacy. Prioritising local elections before national elections risks undermining the role of the interim government and further delaying the democratic process.

The deep structural issues facing Bangladesh's local government system must also be addressed. The country's local governance framework is dysfunctional at best and entirely ineffectual at worst. Bangladesh has a multi-tier system of local government—comprising district, upazila, and union councils, along with municipalilties and city corporations—which theoretically should allow for robust local governance. In reality, however, these institutions have been reduced to ceremonial bodies with little real power. Local governments should ideally be self-governing, capable of managing resources, delivering services, and addressing the needs of their communities. Instead, they are often rendered powerless due to the centralisation of authority in Dhaka.

This centralisation, where bureaucrats frequently control local councils, has stunted the development of local governments and their capacity to serve citizens effectively. Essential services that should be delivered at the community level, such as healthcare, education and infrastructure, are often delayed, disrupted or simply remain unavailable. Although elections are held every five years, the imposition of unelected officials and the central government's pervasive control over local councils frequently lead to a breakdown in local governance.

The root cause of this dysfunction lies in the vested interests of major political parties, who fear that empowering local governments would erode their control over the population. Over time, local governments have become tools for political patronage, used to secure votes and political support for national elections. This manipulation of local government, coupled with entrenched corruption and weak institutions, has made the prospect of free and fair local elections an anathema to the political establishment.

There is no doubt that local governments must be empowered and freed from political interference. However, just holding local elections is not enough. It must be ensured that local governance bodies have the autonomy, resources, and authority to serve their communities effectively. Empowering local governments is not only necessary for improving governance but also for upholding the moral obligation enshrined in Bangladesh's constitution, which mandates elected representatives with local governance. The continuation of centralised power is a violation of this principle and undermines the democratic foundations of the nation.

Given that the major political parties in Bangladesh have promised to focus on national governance and reconciliation, it may be more judicious to hold local government elections after the parliamentary election is concluded. This would allow the formation of a stable national government, thereby reducing tensions related to local elections. The priority should be to stabilise the national political environment. Besides, the people of Bangladesh have waited long enough to vote, and the longer they are deprived of this right, the greater the risk of deepening social and political discontent.

While local governance is critical for ensuring effective and accountable government, holding local elections before national elections would only delay the democratic process and worsen political instability. Bangladesh cannot afford to sacrifice the national election process for the sake of local elections. The national election must be held first, followed by the empowerment of local governments in a manner that ensures peace and stability.

Mohammad Al-Masum Molla is a political commentator.​

 

[Saif]

Election schedule depends on July charter: CA’s press secretary

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said it depends on the July charter whether the next national election will be held at the year-end or by June next year

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Election schedule depends on July charter: CA’s press secretary

Photo: PID

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said it depends on the July charter whether the next national election will be held at the year-end or by June next year.

He shared the key recommendations from the Judicial and Public Administration Reform Commissions at a press briefing today at the state guest house Jamuna after their reports were submitted to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.

Shafiqul Alam mentioned that the chief adviser said the six major reform commissions' recommendations would be reviewed by a consensus commission.

The chief adviser himself will head this commission, Prof Dr Ali Riaz will be vice chairman and the heads of the six commissions and its members, he said.

"After reviewing all reports, the consensus commission will hold discussions with political parties and civil society. A decision will then be made on which reforms need immediate action and which require constitutional amendments," he said.

"Political parties will sign on the mutually agreed recommendations, forming the July Charter. Some recommendations will be implemented by the current government while others by the next. The election date-whether in December this year or by June next year-will depend on its implementation," the press secretary added.

The reform commission has recommended full independence for the judiciary, he said.

"Previous governments claimed the judiciary was independent, but in reality, it never was. The new report suggested comprehensive measures to ensure its full and effective independence," he said.

The 351-page report also suggested constitutional amendments to ensure transparency in appointments in the judiciary, he added.

The recommendations include a new framework for appointing judges.

The Judiciary Reform Commission has also proposed establishing a permanent attorney service.

"This is a crucial reform. Many countries have permanent attorney services whereas in Bangladesh, nearly 4,000 public prosecutors are politically appointed. The new system would eliminate this practice," he said.

Another key recommendation is the formation of an independent investigation agency, said the press secretary.

"In Bangladesh, police investigate most crimes, but political interference often affects the outcomes. Many high-profile cases have been manipulated due to this. The new agency would ensure impartial investigations," he added.

He said the report also recommended setting up permanent Supreme Court benches in divisional cities to address the growing case backlog.

The report suggested extending magistrate courts to all upazilas and increasing legal aid for underprivileged people, said Shafiqul Alam.​