DHAKA: Members of the civil society at a roundtable discussion have said that the Election Commission (EC) has to be made strong for a free election and fair election in coming days. Otherwise the election will not be credible, they said.

Sushasoner Jonno Nagorik (SUJON) organized the roundtable discussion on ‘Responsibilities for Fair Election’ at the National Press Club in the city on Saturday (September 16).

SUJON president M Hafiz Uddin Ahmed chaired the function, while different civil society members took part in the discussion.

Speaking at the seminar, Abul Hasan Chowdhury, former state minister of foreign affairs, said that democracy has huge strength. “We need a democratic election as our victory is dependent upon democracy. Therefore, the EC has to be made strong to make the democracy winner. That is why election is very crucial,” he said.    

Former Cabinet Secretary Ali Imam Majumder said that 26 percent of the women were not included in the voter list of 2015-16. It is unexpected.

Noted journalist and columnist Syed Abul Moksud said, “Skilled EC required for the fair election.”

Former Election Commissioner Bri General (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain said that security is of first concern; because 70% of the EC budget is spent upon security.

Dhaka University professor Saifur Rahman and former EC official Lutfur Rahman also addressed the roundtable, among others.

BDST: 1655 HRS, SEP 16, 2017
AH/EHJ