Election Commission Overhaul: Aligning with Public Aspirations Through Reform

Recently, a significant and troubling event occurred in Bangladesh's history. The previous government systematically dismantled the electoral system to ensure its continued grip on power, effectively dismantling every state institution in the process. This destruction of democratic norms meant that citizens were deprived of their ability to express their opinions through elections, eradicating the fundamental process of government change based on public sentiment.

Had the process of democratic elections been intact, the government would have been more attuned to the people's demands, grievances, and dissatisfaction. This would have provided the government with an opportunity to address its mistakes and make necessary corrections. In a functioning democracy, the public’s participation in forming and managing the government is crucial, allowing for responsive and responsible governance.

Instead, driven by an insatiable desire for power, the government undermined the electoral system and established a regime where public opinion was wholly disregarded. This egregious neglect of democratic principles ultimately led to their downfall.

During the tenure of the previous government, there was a marked indifference to public demands, often met with suppression rather than dialogue. One notable instance was the student movement advocating for quota reforms in government jobs. While the students' demands did not call for the government's resignation, the government, including the top leader and high-ranking officials, dismissed and ridiculed them. This dismissive attitude fueled student frustration, and rather than engaging in constructive discussions, the government resorted to violent repression. Tragically, many students and even children lost their lives as a result. This heavy-handed approach effectively transformed what began as a reform movement into a widespread and contentious issue.

The outgoing government consistently believed that force could quell any dissent. This pattern was further evidenced last December when police violence resulted in the deaths of workers protesting for wage increases.

Moreover, none of the national elections conducted under the outgoing government received genuine acceptance, either domestically or internationally. The election held on January 7 was no exception. During this period, a select group, backed by the government, engaged in rampant financial corruption, including laundering money and siphoning off billions of dollars through dubious loans. Inflation soared to unprecedented levels, making essential goods increasingly unaffordable for the average citizen. Despite these severe economic challenges, the government failed to implement effective solutions. Instead, their actions often exacerbated the situation, further alienating the public and deepening the crisis.

The common people, although not initially visible on the streets, harbored deep-seated anger. When students began their agitation for quota reforms and the government responded with forceful suppression, public sentiment shifted dramatically. Ordinary citizens, alongside the students, took to the streets in solidarity. This growing movement saw the involvement of teachers, workers, and parents, all of whom supported the cause and aided the protesting students in various ways.

The government’s brutal crackdown during the quota reform movement resulted in a staggering loss of life among both students and ordinary people. No previous dictatorial regime had resorted to such extreme measures to quell dissent. The scale of violence and the attack on innocent students were beyond imagination.

Despite the government’s attempts to crush the movement through repression and violence, the public’s resolve only strengthened. The more severe the government’s actions became, the more determined the people were to protest. The movement saw instances of mothers bringing their children to join the demonstrations, highlighting the widespread and deep-rooted dissatisfaction with the regime. Neither the threat of death nor any other form of intimidation could deter them from standing up for their cause.

The first objective of the student movement has been achieved: the previously unshakeable head of the government has been forced to resign and flee the country. This significant change marks a crucial milestone. However, the next critical step is to ensure that the electoral system and the entire political framework are reformed so that future governments must come to power through genuine popular support.

Without comprehensive political reforms, there is a risk that future leaders may adopt the same undemocratic practices as their predecessors. Recent history shows that those who attain power often exhibit a troubling desire to cling to it, disregarding public support and employing any means necessary to maintain control. This tendency has led to persistent political conflict and instability.

To prevent a recurrence of such issues, it is essential to establish a robust and permanent political system that empowers the people to elect their representatives freely and fairly. If elections are conducted without significant reform of the electoral process, there is a danger that the same corrupt factions could return to power, or new figures might engage in similar misconduct. Political culture must be overhauled to ensure that no one dares to engage in anti-social activities, such as extortion or violence.

Reforming the political system is not merely about changing the players but also about altering the fundamental dynamics that allow for such abuses of power. Only through such systemic changes can we build a political environment where genuine democratic principles prevail and public trust is restored.

The previous government severely compromised the integrity of the country’s educational institutions, where loyalty to the ruling party was prioritized over merit in appointments to key positions. This has transformed these institutions into centers of corruption and mismanagement, with universities becoming breeding grounds for political appointees rather than centers of academic excellence. The pervasive partisanship has led to a decline in the quality of education and brought many institutions to the brink of collapse.

There is now a pressing need for urgent reforms to establish a system where merit, rather than political affiliation, governs recruitment and appointments. The interim government faces high expectations from the public, and while it will undoubtedly face challenges and pressures, it must not shy away from implementing necessary reform programs.
A new political and social system should be built to ensure that injustice cannot go unpunished. While some reforms will require an elected government to complete, the interim government can and should initiate both short-term and long-term reforms. Short-term reforms can address immediate issues, while long-term reforms can be planned and prepared for implementation by the future elected government.

One critical area in need of reform is the Election Commission, which has recently become irrelevant and ineffective, operating as a mere extension of the government rather than an independent body. Restoring public trust in the Election Commission is crucial. It must be reformed to reflect the hopes and aspirations of the people and be made accountable to them. This includes creating a transparent, accurate, and controversy-free voter list. Ensuring the independence and credibility of the Election Commission is essential for restoring confidence in the electoral process and the democratic system as a whole.

Various state agencies, such as the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Human Rights Commission, need comprehensive reform to enable them to effectively carry out their responsibilities. The press must be granted full freedom to operate without fear, ensuring that it can report the truth and hold power to account. The Cyber Act should be revised or repealed to prevent its misuse for harassing individuals.
Addressing the legacy of corruption from the past 16 years is crucial. This includes investigating major corruption cases, recovering laundered wealth, and holding those responsible accountable. For instance, as noted by the Governor of Bangladesh Bank, S Alam Group's debt is to be adjusted by selling its assets. Similar measures should be applied to all individuals and entities that have illicitly obtained loans and laundered money. Those involved must face appropriate legal consequences.

Agreements and memorandums of understanding made with various countries and companies that undermine national interests during the previous government should be reviewed and, if necessary, cancelled. Moving forward, it is essential to ensure that public opinion is considered before entering into any significant agreements. Major development projects should not be undertaken without public consent, as these projects are funded by taxpayers' money. Citizens have the right to be informed about and have a say in such projects.

Additionally, efforts must be made to recover assets that have been smuggled abroad and to identify and prosecute those involved in past money laundering. Restoring transparency, accountability, and public trust requires decisive action on these fronts.

Universities are pivotal institutions for imparting knowledge and developing skilled professionals. Therefore, appointments to university management positions must prioritize merit over party loyalty. Only individuals who can rise above political affiliations and work responsibly should be selected.

The history of violence and abuse in university halls must be eradicated permanently. Universities should be safe havens for learning, free from any form of mistreatment or intimidation. Faculty members should uphold their professional integrity, refusing to support or condone any form of injustice, regardless of political affiliations.

Regular elections for university student councils are essential for maintaining a democratic and fair academic environment. These elections should be conducted consistently to ensure that student representation is legitimate and reflective of the student body’s needs and concerns. Accountability must be a core principle in university governance. Those in positions of responsibility must fulfill their duties with dedication and integrity.

Anu Muhammad: Economist and Emeritus Professor, Department of Economics, Jahangirnagar University.

Transcribe: M A Khaleque