EC must continue in its prudent role

The Election Commission (EC) has disposed of the appeal petitions regarding nominations in a satisfactory manner. Its prudence was also displayed in withdrawing the Khulna metropolitan police commissioner. A continuity of such attempts would prove the EC’s will to ensure a level playing field for the next parliamentary elections. The imminent challenge is to continue in this role.

Prior to this, the irresponsible and biased role of certain returning officers in rejecting nomination papers gave rise to concern. However, the EC took timely action to abate the anxiety. Also, the commission’s disposal of Khaleda Zia’s appeal with a 4:1 vote leaves the option to resolve the issue in court and we hope the issue does not create further contention among the concerned quarters.

A total of 543 appeal petitions were submitted. Over the last three days, 204 got back their candidature, most of whom were from the opposition. Several of these candidates will be strong opponents for the ruling party candidates.

The EC has ample scope to level the field before 30 December. With the onset of the election campaign, the principal challenge is to prevent violation of the electoral code of conduct. Such violations are prevalent. It must be seen as to whether equal action is being taken in each case. It is clear that the ruling party may have a higher tendency to override the rules.

The chief election commissioner has already expressed dissatisfaction over the silence of the judicial inquiry committee. Incidents of breaching the electoral code of conduct are being exposed by the media, but no preventive measures have been taken so far. Over a thousand people, including the judicial and executive magistrates, have been appointed in 300 constituencies. The EC can render the judicial probe committees more effective by setting up administrative links with the Supreme Court. The EC must now use all available means to strengthen itself.

We hope the EC pays special attending to the incorrect information given in the statements provided by the aspirant candidates. The EC have been taking the appeals into consideration only. They should properly use their manpower to verify the statements, bank records, election expenditure, assets, debts and loans.

Acceptance of nomination papers does not automatically fulfill all the conditions of candidacy. Serious faults may remain in the statements and these should be exposed impartially. According to the law, all the nomination related documents are to be available on the website as soon as the nomination papers are submitted. But, this has not been followed so far. The EC must remember it is bound to ensure its transparency regarding each and every task.

The electoral candidates must also be reminded the legitimacy of the nomination papers is not time bound. Acceptance of a nomination paper does not mean it cannot be cancelled. According to the law, one can win in the election but can still disqualify from becoming a parliament member if one has provided false information. Thus, continued accountability can effectively contribute to a level playing field.