TDS Desk

The Electoral Reform Commission has received a proposal to bring former election commissioners under trial for allegedly violating constitutional obligations and oath of office by conducting controversial elections, said Badiul Alam Majumdar, head of the reform commission.

“The previous election commissions have conducted controversial and disgraceful elections. They violated their oath and breached the constitution. Many have proposed prosecuting them for their actions,” he told reporters on November 24 following a meeting with academics and civil society members on electoral system reform.

Majumdar said the participants of today’s meeting unanimously supported the reinstatement of a caretaker government system to ensure free and fair elections.

“Today’s participants were highly experienced educators who shared their valuable insights. Everyone agreed on the need for a caretaker government. There was no dissent on this matter. Suggestions also included making the Election Commission independent, stronger, and financially autonomous.

He said the Election Commission must function as an independent entity under the government.

During the meeting, Actor Ilias Kanchan proposed three key electoral system reforms, including introducing a “no vote” option.

“If voters dislike any candidate, they should have the option to cast a ‘no vote.’ Additionally, if a candidate faces injustice during elections and files a case, the resolution often extends beyond the election term, leaving them without justice. The Election Commission should have a mechanism to resolve such disputes promptly so that victims can reclaim their rights,” he suggested.

Badiul Alam Majumdar said everyone at the meeting agreed on reinstating the ‘no vote’ option.

“Additionally, it was stressed that democracy must be established within political parties. Without internal democracy, expecting democracy at the national level is a fantasy,” he added.

Several participants suggested directly electing the president and strengthening the office.

Proposals were also made to reserve specific constituencies for women to ensure their direct election to the parliament.

Criticising previous governments for alleged financial irregularities in purchasing electronic voting machines (EVMs) and other equipment, Actor Ilius Kanchan said, “The Election Commission squandered a lot of money on EVMs, eroding public trust.

“Measures must be taken to ensure transparency in the Election Commission. Otherwise, people will think they are no different from their predecessors,” he added.

Professor Nasim Akhtar Hossain of the government and politics department at Jahangirnagar University said, “Reserved seats do not ensure true representation for women. They lack a sense of accountability or ownership of a constituency. Women should be allocated 100 seats and elected directly.

“Similarly, representation must be ensured for other underrepresented groups, including minorities, ethnic communities, labourers, farmers, and students. Institutional strengthening of the Election Commission is also critical to maintain its authority during elections,” he added.

Professor Dr Abdul Latif Masum of Jahangirnagar University said, “We aim to create a secure future for the entire nation. Elections are the cornerstone of democracy. Ensuring they are conducted efficiently and sustainably is essential.”

Professor Al Masud Hasanuzzaman of Jahangirnagar University’s government and politics department noted differing opinions among participants on proportional representation.