Election Commission takes charge: Plans own reforms to safeguard independence

The Election Commission (EC) has decided to take matters into its own hands by reviewing election-related laws and proposing necessary reforms.

This comes as the commission aims to address key issues while ensuring its independence remains intact. 

A meeting was held today to discuss these plans. 

The session began around 11:00 AM on Thursday, led by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin. 

All four other commissioners and the EC Secretary were also present. 

The focus of the meeting was to review critical areas such as the Voter List Law, Parliamentary Constituency Delimitation Law, Journalist Code of Conduct, and Election Observer Guidelines. 

Interestingly, these topics have already been addressed by the Election System Reform Commission, which had earlier submitted its recommendations. 

However, the EC is now considering drafting its own set of reform proposals to present to the interim government. 

This step highlights the commission’s desire to take a more proactive role in shaping election laws. 

Earlier, the Chief Election Commissioner had expressed strong objections to at least four recommendations made by the Reform Commission. 

He argued that implementing many of these suggestions could weaken the EC’s independence. 

“If these recommendations are implemented, the EC’s autonomy will be compromised,” he stated. 

This concern has led the EC to explore the possibility of independently reviewing the laws. 

On the other hand, the Reform Commission has clarified its stance, saying, 

“None of our recommendations were designed to undermine the EC’s independence.” 

The development marks a new chapter in the ongoing efforts to improve the election system. 

With the EC taking the lead in proposing reforms, the focus remains on ensuring transparency and fairness while safeguarding its independence. 

As the debate continues, all eyes are now on the interim government to see how it responds to the EC’s upcoming proposals. 

For now, the Election Commission is determined to play a central role in shaping the future of election laws in the country.