Dhaka, Mar 19 (V7N) – The Election Commission's (EC) recent public notice on the registration of new political parties has sparked controversy, with concerns raised over its contradiction with the Reform Commission’s recommendations.

A member of the Electoral System Reform Commission, Dr. Md. Abdul Alim, stated that the EC issued the notice under existing laws, while the Reform Commission had proposed new conditions for party registration. This discrepancy, he fears, may lead to complications.

  • Parties must have the support of at least 200 voters in each of 100 upazilas.
  • At least one elected MP from any previous national election must be affiliated with the party.
  • 10 pieces of information must be submitted to the EC for registration.

The Reform Commission suggested relaxing registration conditions:

  • 10% districts, 5% upazilas, and a minimum of 5,000 members would be required for registration.
  • Elected members at all levels of the party, from local to national committees.
  • Prohibition of party-affiliated student, teacher, or professional organizations.

However, the EC’s notice follows the existing law, ignoring the proposed reforms, which has drawn criticism.

The High Court has suspended the validity of the EC's public notice, questioning its legality. The court has also issued a rule asking why the notice should not be declared illegal.

Meanwhile, EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed stated that new rules may be added to the notice if necessary, leaving room for possible adjustments.

The issue has now taken a legal and political turn, as stakeholders await a resolution on the future of new party registration criteria.

END/MSS/AJ