Those who introduced EVMs should face probe: Badiul Alam Majumdar
'We have clearly said no to EVMs,' he says
An investigation should be launched against those responsible for introducing and implementing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the country, Badiul Alam Majumdar, head of the Electoral Reform Commission, said today (23 December).
Speaking at a roundtable discussion on "Voter awareness and civic activism" held at the Dhaka Reporters Unity, Majumdar emphasised the need for accountability.
"There will be no use of EVMs in the upcoming elections. We have clearly said no to EVMs, and there should be an investigation into those who promoted and utilised them," he added.
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Highlighting the importance of addressing systemic issues, Majumdar said, "There was a reason behind this mass uprising. Exemplary punishment is necessary for those who committed crimes, including crimes against humanity, economic offenses, and other criminal acts. Justice must prevail."
He stressed that the ultimate goal of the reform commission is to restore public confidence in the democratic process.
"Since 1950, our nation has faced persistent challenges in maintaining a truly democratic system. Our electoral processes have been compromised, hindering the fair representation of the people. However, we are now actively engaged in substantial reforms to address these obstacles," Majumdar said.
When asked whether reforms or elections should come first, he responded, "Elections could have been held sooner, however, implementing necessary reforms is crucial to guarantee their fairness and impartiality.
"Conducting credible elections within a chaotic system is simply not feasible. Reforms are indispensable for establishing a foundation for fair and transparent elections."
