[🇧🇩] Forming Election Commission/Conducting Elections

[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."​

 

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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...

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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.’​

 

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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

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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."​

 

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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.

www.newagebd.net

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.​