Dhaka: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin emphasized the urgent need to formulate a clear law for conducting referendums in the country. "The law on how the referendum will be held needs to be made first. Once the law is made, then we will have a responsibility," Nasir Uddin stated during the second session of the dialogue with political parties, marking the 13th parliamentary elections at the Nirbachan Bhaban in Agargaon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the CEC addressed concerns about the absence of a legal framework for referendums, highlighting that without legislation, determining the referendum method, including the ballot and necessary structures, remains impossible. He referenced past enactments by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and Hussain Muhammad Ershad, underscoring the need for a new referendum law. Once established, the Election Commission (EC) will begin preparations and practice for implementing the law.
Nasir Uddin, drawing from his extensive experience with elections since the Pakistan era, remarked on the importance of considering the political and social realities of the country. He expressed the commission's commitment to a "less talk, more action" approach, focusing on transparency and accountability.
The CEC highlighted the significance of CCTV and media presence in ensuring transparent elections. "If there are good observers, transparency will increase. I don't want to conduct elections secretly," he affirmed, advocating for the presence of cameras to promote transparency.
Nasir Uddin reiterated the EC's dedication to upholding justice, laws, and rules impartially, emphasizing the need for cooperation from political parties, law enforcement agencies, and voters.
The dialogue involved discussions with several political entities, including BNP, Gana Adhikar Parishad (GOP), Nagorik Oikya, Bangladesh Republican Party (BRP), and BSP Marxist (New Party) in the afternoon session. Earlier, the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Bangladesh Minority Janata Party, Insaniat Biplob Bangladesh, National Citizens Party (NCP), Gana Sanghati Andolan, Jatiyatabadi Ganatantrik Andolan (NDM), and Bangladesh Labor Party participated in the morning session.
Previously, the Election Commission completed dialogues with a total of 36 political parties across sessions held on November 13, 16, and 17.