Dhaka, 15 October 2023: Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has voiced growing concerns over the repeated ‘contradictory’ statements made by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal. TIB has suggested that these statements have cast doubt on the anticipated levels of acceptance, inclusiveness and participation in the upcoming national election.
The organisation has criticised what it perceives as a "give-up" mindset on the part of the CEC regarding conducting a fair, free and impartial election, involving all political parties.
TIB has expressed disappointment with the CEC's remarks made on 14 October 2023, where he implied that a fair election is possible even without the participation of all political parties. However, just two days earlier, the CEC had told the international press that the election could remain incomplete without the involvement of the main political opposition, BNP.
TIB's Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman stated that these inconsistencies in the CEC's position are ‘suspicious’.
He said, “We find the contradictory statements about the election deeply unsatisfactory, as they contribute to growing confusion among people. When the head of an independent organisation expresses such inconsistencies, it raises concerns that the expectation of a fair, free, impartial and participatory election may not be met. Any potential yielding to external pressure and changes in position would be a negligence of duty.”
Dr. Zaman also remarked, “Given the experiences of the previous national elections, it is very important that the upcoming election be participatory and inclusive. It is our belief, as well as the understanding of the CEC, that simply meeting legal obligations will not align with the people's expectations. Given this context, the CEC's statements on Saturday have raised concerns that a more proactive approach may be needed. We eagerly anticipate additional initiatives from the commission to fulfil its constitutional responsibility in organising elections that are participatory, fair, free and impartial, aligning with the nation’s expectations.”
