Restoring People’s Voting Rights: The Role of the Electoral System Reform Commission
The Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) recently convened a pivotal Policy Café titled “Restoring People’s Voting Rights: The Role of the Electoral System Reform Commission” at The Westin Dhaka. This significant event brought together a diverse group of esteemed policymakers, leading academics, and dedicated civil society representatives to engage in critical discussions about the urgent need for comprehensive electoral reforms in our nation.
In his opening remarks, Major General ANM Muniruzzaman (Retd), President of BIPSS, underscored the essential role that free and fair elections play as the bedrock of a thriving democracy. He powerfully stated, “Without credible elections, governance loses legitimacy.” This sentiment resonated throughout the gathering, highlighting the collective recognition that the integrity of our electoral process is fundamental to the sovereignty and rights of every citizen.
In this opening remarks, Mr. Shafqat Munir, Senior Research Fellow at BIPSS underscored the fact that the Bangladeshi electorate have not been able to vote properly in 3 consecutive elections. He also underscored the need for restoring people’s voting rights and ensuring that the next election will be free, fair, transparent and genuine reflecting the will of the people of the country.
Prof. Badiul Alam Majumder, Head of the Electoral System Reform Commission, shared an in-depth analysis of the commission’s objectives and ongoing efforts. He articulated actionable strategies to ensure transparent and inclusive elections, stressing that the integrity of the Election Commission and its ability to function independently is critical to regaining public confidence. Prof. Majumder also highlighted the need for technological integration and the significance of engaging marginalized communities, thereby ensuring that our electoral process reflects the rich diversity of our nation.
The discussions at the Policy Café also delved into the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to electoral reform. Participants explored how collaboration among government bodies, political parties, civil society organizations, and the international community is vital for creating a robust framework for electoral integrity. It was clear that restoring public trust in our electoral system requires concerted efforts from all sectors of society.
General Muniruzzaman concluded with a call to action stating, “Restoring voting rights is not merely about procedural reform; it is about rebuilding trust in the democratic process. The Policy Cafe was attended by Ambassadors, senior officials, diplomats from various missions, academics, editors, members of the civil society, representatives of major political parties and student coordinators, among others.
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