Dhaka, Dec 23 (V7N) — The Electoral Reforms Commission (ERC) has proposed not using electronic voting machines (EVMs) in the upcoming elections and recommended introducing a provision for no-votes. This was revealed by ERC chief Badiul Alam Majumder at a roundtable discussion on voter awareness and civic activism organized by Citizens for Good Governance (SUJON) on Monday.

Although the final report is yet to be submitted, the internal recommendations have already been presented to the interim government. Majumder emphasized the need for justice against those who committed crimes during the July-August movement, stating, “Exemplary punishment is necessary to ensure justice and prevent dictatorship from returning. Public opinion must be built nationwide to support this.”

During the roundtable, Sujan Sadaktar highlighted the High Court's ruling that reinstated the non-partisan caretaker government system, adding that the upcoming national election will be conducted under an interim government. He raised questions about whether national or local elections should be prioritized.

Majumder also called for:

Direct participation of women in elections.

Increasing the number of seats for women.

Implementing a rotation system in elections to promote inclusivity.

Dr. Tofail Ahmed, head of the Local Government Reform Commission, proposed aligning local government elections with the parliamentary schedule to streamline governance. He stressed the need for legally defining the responsibilities of MPs, councilors, and local government members to prevent interference.

“Ward councilors and members should not be tasked with waste control; their roles must be more clearly defined. Additionally, we are considering separate wards for women in local elections to enhance representation,” Ahmed stated.

The roundtable provided a platform for civic leaders and experts to discuss reforms aimed at strengthening democracy, enhancing voter engagement, and improving governance. Further deliberations are expected as the ERC prepares to submit its final report.

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