Thursday, 26 December, 2024
Newly-appointed Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin emphasized that parliamentary elections cannot be held without implementing critical reforms.
Speaking to the media for the first time after assuming office, CEC Nasir, alongside four new election commissioners, addressed reporters at the Election Commission (EC) headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Sunday.
When asked about the election timeline, Nasir said, "I cannot provide a specific date at this moment. Preparations will begin immediately, but holding the election without essential reforms is not feasible."
He highlighted several unresolved issues, including the presence of fake voters and divergent opinions among political parties. "Some parties propose a bicameral parliamentary system, while others want to maintain the current structure. There's also debate over adopting proportional representation versus retaining the First Past the Post (FPTP) system. These matters must be reviewed before proceeding," he stated.
Nasir noted that the ongoing Electoral Reform Commission, led by Badiul Alam Majumdar, is expected to deliver recommendations based on stakeholder consultations. "A free and fair election will be held by incorporating input from all parties," he assured.
The CEC called for nationwide cooperation: "We need the support of the people and all political parties. With everyone’s collaboration, we will ensure a free, fair, and credible election."
Earlier in the day, Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed administered the oath to the new election officials at the Supreme Court Judge’s Lounge. Following the ceremony, the CEC and his team assumed office at the EC building.
When asked about the participation of the Awami League and its affiliated groups, Nasir refrained from speculation. "This is a national issue. Any decisions will depend on the reform commission's findings," he said.
The Electoral Reform Commission, established during the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, has been gathering feedback from various stakeholders. A final report is expected soon, which will guide the EC's preparations.
"Let’s evaluate their recommendations and identify which are feasible for implementation," Nasir said, adding that the commission is expected to conclude its work before the government-imposed December deadline.
The newly-formed EC team includes retired additional secretary Md Anwarul Islam Sarker, district and sessions judge Abdur Rahmanel Masud, retired joint secretary Tahmida Ahmad, and retired brigadier general Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah.
Nasir expressed optimism about the team's ability to deliver on public expectations, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring a transparent and inclusive electoral process.
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Newly-appointed Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin emphasized that parliamentary elections cannot be held without implementing critical reforms.
Speaking to the media for the first time after assuming office, CEC Nasir, alongside four new election commissioners, addressed reporters at the Election Commission (EC) headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Sunday.
When asked about the election timeline, Nasir said, "I cannot provide a specific date at this moment. Preparations will begin immediately, but holding the election without essential reforms is not feasible."
He highlighted several unresolved issues, including the presence of fake voters and divergent opinions among political parties. "Some parties propose a bicameral parliamentary system, while others want to maintain the current structure. There's also debate over adopting proportional representation versus retaining the First Past the Post (FPTP) system. These matters must be reviewed before proceeding," he stated.
Nasir noted that the ongoing Electoral Reform Commission, led by Badiul Alam Majumdar, is expected to deliver recommendations based on stakeholder consultations. "A free and fair election will be held by incorporating input from all parties," he assured.
The CEC called for nationwide cooperation: "We need the support of the people and all political parties. With everyone’s collaboration, we will ensure a free, fair, and credible election."
Earlier in the day, Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed administered the oath to the new election officials at the Supreme Court Judge’s Lounge. Following the ceremony, the CEC and his team assumed office at the EC building.
When asked about the participation of the Awami League and its affiliated groups, Nasir refrained from speculation. "This is a national issue. Any decisions will depend on the reform commission's findings," he said.
The Electoral Reform Commission, established during the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, has been gathering feedback from various stakeholders. A final report is expected soon, which will guide the EC's preparations.
"Let’s evaluate their recommendations and identify which are feasible for implementation," Nasir said, adding that the commission is expected to conclude its work before the government-imposed December deadline.
The newly-formed EC team includes retired additional secretary Md Anwarul Islam Sarker, district and sessions judge Abdur Rahmanel Masud, retired joint secretary Tahmida Ahmad, and retired brigadier general Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah.
Nasir expressed optimism about the team's ability to deliver on public expectations, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring a transparent and inclusive electoral process.
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