Dhaka, Jan 21 (V7N) — Dr. Badiul Alam Majumder, head of the Electoral Reform Commission, has stated that the majority of the population does not want those involved in disappearances, murders, and extrajudicial killings to return to power. He emphasised that mass murderers should be barred from participating in elections.

Speaking at the RFED Talk program organised by the Reporters Forum for Elections and Democracy (RFED) at the Election Commission Bhaban on Tuesday, Dr. Majumder called for an investigation commission to hold accountable the election commissions that failed in their duties during the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections.

"Those responsible for election rigging and dereliction of duty should face justice," Dr. Majumder said, adding that the people of the country do not want a repeat of the irregularities and violence seen in past elections.

The remarks come amid allegations of widespread violence and extrajudicial killings over the past 16 years, particularly under the Awami League's rule. More than 1,500 people were reportedly killed during the July-August protests last year, with thousands injured and numerous cases of disappearances and murders. These events have raised questions about the participation of implicated individuals in upcoming elections.

Dr. Majumder noted that the commission's aim is not to exclude anyone unfairly but to ensure accountability. "Our intention is not to keep anyone away from the elections. We want those who committed wrongdoing to be brought to justice," he said.

Recommendations for Electoral Reforms

The Electoral Reform Commission has also proposed significant changes to improve the fairness of future elections:

Non-partisan local government elections.

Banning political activities of student and teacher organisations abroad.

Promoting internal democracy within political parties.

Prohibiting the use of campaign posters and ensuring equal access to state media for all candidates.

The commission has urged authorities to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the violence and irregularities of the past. "We don't want the rigging of the past to be repeated in this election," Dr. Majumder stressed, reflecting the public's desire for free and fair elections.

The recommendations and comments from the Electoral Reform Commission are seen as a crucial step toward restoring trust in the democratic process and preventing future abuses of power.

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