Disqualify those convicted by ICT

Individuals accused and convicted by the International Crimes Tribunal, as well as those involved in enforced disappearances, should be disqualified from contesting elections, said Electoral Reform Commission Chairman Badiul Alam Majumdar yesterday.

Speaking at a discussion organised by the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED) at the Election Commission (EC) Bhaban yesterday, he said, "The intention is not to keep anyone away from the elections. However, those who committed serious crimes like killing students and the public during movements, fugitive defendants, and those who played a major role in subverting the electoral system should be barred from contesting polls." 

"No one is above responsibility in a democratic state. If the Election Commission makes a mistake, violates the constitution, or breaks its oath, they will be held accountable," he said.

 Criticising previous governments, he said, "The government [in the past] has done whatever it wanted, without paying attention to the Election Commission. We have established the authority so that the Election Commission cannot act arbitrarily." 

Badiul also called for a "neutral investigation commission" to probe the elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024, ensuring those involved in electoral fraud face justice.

"If the election commissions at that time committed wrongdoing, they too should face justice. No one wants to return to the past, and we do not want a repetition of fraudulent elections. The electoral process must be freed from criminalisation," he added. 

He further stressed the need for political parties to ensure transparency, practise democracy, and remain accountable to their members for free and fair elections. 

Referring to the recommendation to ban the use of posters, he said that posters harm the environment. Campaigning can take place through digital platforms. It has also been recommended that all candidates should be given equal opportunities to campaign through government media.

When asked whether national and all local elections could be conducted within a four-month caretaker government period, Badiul said this proposal is not for the present but for the future. Additionally, the suggestion of holding local government elections before the national parliamentary elections has also been made for the future.

Badiul proposed reinstating the "no-vote" provision to ensure credible elections.

Besides, he added, "We have proposed verifying affidavits, and if there are allegations of falsehoods, concealment of information, or incorrect information, their nomination and election will be cancelled."