A 19-member delegation team of ruling Awami League (AL) lead by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina talked to President Abdul Hamid at Bangabhaban for as part of his move to take opinion of registered political parties over formation of a new Election Commission (EC).

Awami League President Sheikh Hasina along with the party’s 19-members reached the Darbal Hall of Bangabhaban at about 4:00pm. The meeting that started at 4:05 pm ended at 5:36 pm at the Darbar Hall of Bangabhaban.

AL submitted a four-point EC reformation proposal to the president.

The points are as follows:

A) The president will appoint chief election commissioner (EC) and other election commissioners according to the article 118 of Bangladesh constitution.

B) The President can choose and elect EC and other commissioners at his will.

C) If possible, an appropriate law can be introduced or an ordinance can be issued for the appointment of EC and other commissioners. If it is not possible to form a law or issue an ordinance for the up and coming commission formation due to lack of time, necessary measures should be taken without any delay — for the next formation — in accordance with the rules and regulation of the constitution.

D) Introducing e-voting in the next general election to affirm free, fair and impartial polls.   

Abdul Hamid initiated formal talks with political parties for formation of the new EC as the tenure of the current Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad-led EC expires in February.