Competent commission key to fair elections, no need for system change: Former CEC Abu Hena

Former chief election commissioner (CEC) Mohammad Abu Hena said that while a competent Election Commission is essential for fair elections, there is no need to reform the electoral system. 

"Personally, I do not think a new system is necessary," Abu Hena told journalists today after a meeting with the Election Reforms Commission in Dhaka.

"We need to make our existing system, which people are familiar with, effective. Countries with proportional representation systems are not necessarily performing better. Our focus should be on strengthening the current system," he said.

Highlighting the role of strong institutions, the former CEC added, "No matter how good the laws are, they will not yield positive results if not implemented properly. And for fair elections, we need a competent Election Commission."

Abu Hena noted that he was invited by the Election Reforms Commission to discuss his experiences, including insights from conducting the 1996 general elections.

"I have shared my recommendations for the upcoming elections, and I hope they will consider them. My greatest wish, as a senior citizen, is that all future elections contribute to the nation's welfare and remain fair and peaceful."

To improve political culture, Abu Hena stressed the importance of fair candidate selection, recommending a grassroots approach.

"Candidates should not be imposed from above but should come from below. Local-level elections with competent candidates would benefit the country," he said.

On the topic of electoral laws, he added, "It is not enough to amend laws; we must implement them with competent and honest individuals. A commitment to free and fair elections can make this possible." 

Meanwhile, Badiul Alam Majumder, head of the Election Reforms Commission, expressed appreciation for Abu Hena's insights, saying, "We are encouraged by what he has said. He affirmed that we are on the right track according to his experience."

Badiul Alam further mentioned that the commission has made significant progress, having reviewed electoral laws in depth across 17-18 meetings, including receiving opinions from various political parties.

"We are satisfied with our progress. We will also engage with the media," he said. In response to questions on broader reforms, he noted that implementing some of the suggestions would require constitutional amendments, which will be further explored with relevant bodies.