Draft law on EC has shortcomings: former CEC Huda

Former chief election commissioner ATM Shamsul Huda today said it is apparent that the draft law on formation of the Election Commission has shortcomings and gives the impression that it will be enacted only for forming a search committee.

Stressing that there is "no real representation of people in the present parliament", the former CEC called upon the major political parties to be actively involved in the process to enact the law on forming the EC.

Shamsul Huda said this at a shadow parliament event titled "Formation of an acceptable Election Commission depends on the good intentions of political parties" at Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) in the capital, organised by Debate For Democracy.

"The draft law should be finalised taking into account the views of all concerned," he said.

"It is of utmost importance to make sure that this law is acceptable to the people. More time may be invested in order to enact a good law, if necessary. It will not benefit anyone if a flawed law is enacted in a hurry," he also said.

Shamsul Huda also said there should be a clear outline of the eligibility and ineligibility for the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners. Those with allegations against them should not be considered for these roles, he added.

If the CEC and other ECs are found to be involved in any corruption, they should be brought to justice, the former CEC said.

"No one is above the law, so no person holding a particular position can have indemnity for the trial of a crime committed," he said.

Shamsul Huda also opined that the performance of the present Election Commission is not satisfactory and it could have organised better elections if it had good intentions.

"Although the caretaker government is not favourable to the country's existing political system, the elections held under the caretaker governments have been more acceptable," Shamsul Huda added.