Staff Reporter:
The Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) said the upcoming national election is unlikely to be participatory, and it is impossible to ensure public confidence in such election.
The TIB placed 76 recommendations under “Political Commitments for Democracy, Good Governance and Integrity” for fostering democracy, institutionalizing democratic values and practices, establishing an effective parliament, promoting good governance, and upholding integrity in the activities of political parties, according to a press release.
The TIB shared the recommendations in a press conference in the city yesterday.
TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, Adviser – Executive Management Dr. Sumaiya Khair, Outreach & Communication Division Director Sheikh Manjur-E-Alam, and Research and Policy Divi-sion Director Muhammad Badiuzzaman attended the press conference, among others.
TIB Research Associate Kawsher Ahamed presented the recommendations.
The TIB suggested changing the Article 91(A) of the Representation of the People Order (Amendment) Act 2023, which reduced the Election Commission’s power by eliminating its authority to nullify the entire result of a specific parliamentary seat.
Besides, the pre-election codes of conduct for ministers and MPs should be precisely defined to ensure equal opportunities for all parties and candidates in their campaigns, ensuring a fair playing field in the national election, it noted. Additionally, the TIB suggested reintroduction of “No” vote in both national and local elections.
The TIB executive director also suggested amending Article 70 of the Constitution to create opportuni-ties of allowing the parliament members to oppose any party decision, engage in discussions, and vote against their respective parties in all other areas except motion of no-confidence and in case of budget making.
