Dhaka: Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman today said the Election Commission (EC) can hold fair elections if it wants. He made the remark while speaking at the inaugural session of an election news reporting training workshop, organised by the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED) at the TIB office here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Iftekharuzzaman emphasized the central role of the EC as the most important factor, while also highlighting the responsibility of journalists. “We want fair polls. We want neutral elections. We want to back the people to exercise their franchise,” the TIB chief stated.
He further noted that it is not feasible to change the entire administration overnight, advocating for gradual establishment of stability and professionalism. Dr Iftekharuzzaman pointed out that the recommendations of the reform commissions have not been fully implemented, and even if there has been some progress, it is not sufficient.
The TIB executive director stressed the importance of journalists’ access to polling centers during elections, observing that the obligation for journalists to inform concerned authorities before entering polling centers can be misused as a tool for harassment.
He also remarked on the longstanding destruction of the governance system of Bangladesh through politicisation and weakening of institutions, which has eroded professionalism and impartiality within the administration. However, he acknowledged that there are still officials striving to work professionally and impartially.
Dr Iftekharuzzaman urged journalists to work with these weaknesses in mind and to focus on highlighting where the law is implemented, voters’ rights are ensured, and failures occur. “If we prepare reports impartially, based on the truth and continue to demand transparency, then it is possible to create opportunities for fair and impartial polls,” he concluded.
The event also featured former EC additional secretary Jasmine Tuli as a speaker, with RFED President Kazi Jebel and General Secretary Golam Rabbani in attendance.