Election Reform Commission gets direct presidential election recommendation

The Election Reform Commission on Saturday (23 November) heard several recommendations including direct presidential election without any local government elections, not electing any uncontested candidate, return of no-vote, and ensuring transparency of the source of funds.

Commission Chief Badiul Alam Majumder disclosed the information during a press conference at the Election Bhaban in Agargaon in the capital.

He said there were discussions about conducting the presidential election directly, with many making the recommendation.
He also said there were talks about making local government elections non-partisan and not following the parliamentary system.

Majumder said a recommendation came to appoint the Election Commission based on political consensus.
The use of technology, especially for expatriates, was also encouraged during the meeting.

Questions were also raised about the percentage of votes people would need to be elected.

Meanwhile, another member of the Reform Commission, Dr Tofail Ahmed, suggested holding local government elections before the national elections.

He believes that holding local government elections earlier will increase the capability of the Election Commission.

Tofail Ahmed said the opinion of civil society is that local elections should be held before the national elections, because holding local elections will increase the capacity of the commission.

In addition, the support required at the local level for the national elections will be ensured.