Election, reforms must proceed simultaneously

Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, August 17th 2025 at 17:01 GMT by The Daily Star
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Zonayed Saki, chief coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolon, has emphasised that reforms and the upcoming national election must move forward hand in hand.

Election Reforms Must Proceed Simultaneously: A Call for Comprehensive Overhaul in Bangladesh

In the wake of ongoing political discourse surrounding Bangladesh's electoral processes, experts and stakeholders are emphasizing the urgent need for simultaneous reforms across multiple facets of the election system. The core argument revolves around the idea that piecemeal changes will not suffice; instead, a holistic approach is essential to ensure fair, transparent, and credible elections. This perspective stems from historical challenges faced during past polls, including allegations of voter suppression, irregularities in vote counting, and institutional biases that have undermined public trust in democratic institutions.

At the heart of these discussions is the role of the Election Commission (EC), the body responsible for overseeing elections in Bangladesh. Critics argue that while the EC has made some strides in recent years, such as digitizing voter lists and introducing biometric verification, these efforts remain isolated and insufficient without broader systemic changes. For instance, reforming the EC's structure to enhance its independence is seen as a prerequisite. This includes appointing commissioners through a more transparent and bipartisan process, rather than one dominated by the ruling government, which has often led to perceptions of partiality. Proponents of reform suggest drawing inspiration from international models, like India's Election Commission, which operates with greater autonomy and has successfully managed massive electoral exercises.

Simultaneously, electoral laws require urgent revision. The Representation of the People Order (RPO) of 1972, which governs elections, is outdated and does not adequately address modern challenges such as cyber threats, fake news dissemination, and the influence of money in politics. Reforms must include stricter regulations on campaign financing, with mandatory disclosure of funding sources and expenditure limits to prevent undue influence from wealthy donors or corporate entities. Additionally, there is a push for amendments to allow for greater inclusivity, such as lowering the voting age or simplifying registration for marginalized groups, including women, ethnic minorities, and overseas Bangladeshis. These changes are not just procedural; they aim to broaden participation and reflect the diverse demographic makeup of the nation.

Another critical area is the enhancement of voter education and awareness programs. Many citizens, particularly in rural areas, lack understanding of their rights and the electoral process, leading to low turnout or manipulated voting. Simultaneous reforms should integrate nationwide campaigns using digital platforms, community workshops, and school curricula to foster a culture of informed voting. This ties into the need for technological upgrades, such as electronic voting machines (EVMs), which have been piloted but face skepticism due to concerns over tampering and lack of transparency. Experts recommend phased implementation with rigorous testing and international oversight to build confidence.

The judiciary's role in electoral disputes also demands parallel attention. Currently, election-related cases often languish in courts, delaying justice and eroding faith in the system. Reforms propose establishing dedicated election tribunals with expedited procedures and specialized judges trained in electoral law. This would ensure swift resolution of complaints, from nomination disputes to post-election challenges, thereby deterring malpractices.

Political parties themselves are not exempt from this reform agenda. Internal democracy within parties is often lacking, with leadership decisions made opaquely and without member input. Mandating intra-party elections and gender quotas for candidate selection could promote fairness and diversity. Moreover, the contentious issue of the caretaker government system, which was abolished in 2011, continues to spark debate. While some advocate for its revival to neutralize government influence during polls, others suggest alternative mechanisms like a neutral advisory council to oversee transitions.

Civil society organizations and international observers play a pivotal role in advocating for these simultaneous reforms. Groups like the Bangladesh Election Working Group have highlighted how fragmented changes in the past led to uneven implementation, allowing loopholes to persist. They call for a national dialogue involving all stakeholders—government, opposition, EC, and NGOs—to draft a comprehensive reform blueprint. This collaborative approach could mitigate polarization and foster consensus, essential in a politically divided landscape.

Economically, the stakes are high. Flawed elections can lead to instability, deterring foreign investment and hampering growth in sectors like garments and remittances, which form the backbone of Bangladesh's economy. Socially, credible polls are vital for maintaining peace and addressing grievances in regions like the Chittagong Hill Tracts or urban slums, where disenfranchisement fuels unrest.

In conclusion, the push for simultaneous election reforms in Bangladesh is not merely about fixing technical glitches but about restoring the foundational principles of democracy. By addressing the EC's independence, legal frameworks, voter engagement, judicial efficiency, party internals, and oversight mechanisms in tandem, the country can pave the way for elections that truly reflect the people's will. Delaying or isolating these efforts risks perpetuating cycles of distrust and division. As Bangladesh approaches future electoral milestones, the time for bold, integrated action is now, ensuring that democracy evolves to meet the aspirations of its over 160 million citizens. This comprehensive strategy, if implemented, could serve as a model for other developing nations grappling with similar challenges, underscoring the importance of synchronization in reform processes.

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