TIB questions EC's role, says code violations going unchecked

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) says it has found signs of inactivity among government employees, particularly in the administration and law enforcement agencies, in ensuring an election free from influence.

Political parties and candidates are also showing an attitude of non-cooperation with the Election Commission in following the electoral code of conduct, it says.

TIB presented its research findings, titled “Pre-election and referendum situation: TIB’s observation”, at its office in Dhaka today.

Addressing the event, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said, “Conducts going against the values of a level playing field in the election are increasingly visible among many political parties and candidates.”

The Election Commission, possibly due to its incapability, is avoiding or ignoring violations of the electoral code by political parties and candidates during their campaigns, both online and offline, he said.

Iftekharuzzaman called on the Election Commission and political parties to take all measures to ensure the security of minorities, women, and children on election day.

“Political parties have a big role to play. We have seen in the past that political parties have become victims due to the lack of free and fair elections,” he said.