Ensure transparency in party functioning

Representatives from a number of non-government organisations yesterday asked the Election Commission to increase supervision of political parties registered with it to ensure the parties' accountability and transparency of their activities.
In talks arranged by the commission at the National Economic Council in the capital, they also spoke of strengthening the EC for holding free and fair elections.
"The Election Commission should play a significant role in ensuring good functioning of the political parties," said Rafiqul Islam Khokon, executive director of Khulna-based NGO Rupantar, adding the organisation would cooperate with the EC if it made any move to this effect.
Chief Executive of Light House Harun ur Rashid urged the EC to do what it takes to get the political parties' compliance with the Representation of the People Order (RPO).
CEC Rakibuddin Ahmad did not say anything in response to these suggestions.
He, however, spoke on redrawing boundaries of the parliamentary constituencies.
"We are taking your opinions. We will work in line with the law. On receiving opinions from the political parties, we will publish a draft on redrawing boundaries of the parliamentary constituencies," Rakibuddin said.
Some NGO representatives were of the view that the EC should not increase the number of parliamentary constituencies in the cities, including the capital. Some, however, told the EC to double the number to 600 though the commission has no role in this matter.
Brotee Chief Executive Officer Sharmin Murshid said the EC should not change its stance because of the protest against redrawing boundaries of the parliamentary constituencies. The commission should act according to the law, she said.
More than 50 representatives of different NGOs joined the discussion on issues relating to the next parliamentary elections upon invitation from the Election Commission. Other election commissioners and EC officials were also present.