Dhaka, Dec 15 (V7N)— After years of controversial elections, an Election System Reform Commission has been established under the interim government following the ousting of the Awami League government in a mass uprising. The commission, headed by Dr. Badiul Alam Majumder, aims to overhaul the electoral process to ensure transparency, fairness, and public trust in future elections.

The commission has been tasked with closing the door to interference by political parties, the administration, and law enforcement agencies during elections. To achieve this, the commission plans to recommend changes to electoral laws and processes.

Dr. Badiul Alam Majumder highlighted several key areas under review:

1. Voting Rights of Expatriates: Ensuring that overseas citizens can participate in elections.

2. Government During Elections: Introducing measures to establish a neutral caretaker government to oversee elections.

3. Bicameral Parliament: Considering the possibility of a two-chamber parliamentary system to enhance democratic representation.

The commission is expected to propose the following:

Search Committee for Election Commissioners: Formation of a politically inclusive search committee comprising representatives from the government, opposition, civil society, and media.

Transparency in Appointments: Oral tests and rationale-based recommendations for commissioner appointments to ensure competence and impartiality.

Caretaker Government: Introduction of legislation to reinstate a neutral caretaker government during elections, a move Dr. Majumder described as critical for ensuring fair polls.

The commission is committed to building a robust electoral system that fosters democratic values. Dr. Majumder expressed optimism that these reforms would restore public confidence in elections, making them a true festival of democracy for the people.

The recommendations, once finalized, will be presented to parliament, with the hope that political consensus will pave the way for their implementation. The interim government and the commission aim to create a solid foundation for fair and transparent elections, ensuring a democratic future for the nation.

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