CEC hopes to reach consensus with parties on reform

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Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) ATM Shamsul Huda Monday expressed the hope that they would reach a consensus with political parties on reforms when they sit together, reports UNB.
"When we sit to discuss the draft, they will suggest something. We need to reach a consensus," he told reporters when asked about the reaction of political parties on the draft reforms.
The CEC hoped that they would come to a consensus with the political parties.
Asked about the meeting with a delegation of NGO federation in the afternoon, Huda said they talked NGO-related issues in the draft proposal. The delegation was asked to submit their proposals in writing.
After the 90-minute meeting, 7-member NGO delegation leader Ibrahim told reporters that they asked the EC to reconsider the proposed ban on taking part in election by officials of foreign funded NGOs even in three years of retirement.
He said NGO officials should not be treated in line with government officials. "We do not have much to influence the masses." Besides, NGO activities are closely monitored by the government.
The CEC reaffirmed that the draft reforms would be finalised after discussion with the political parties.
About the voters' list pilot project in Gazipur, he hinted at that the duration of the project might be extended if not completed on schedule. Time extension would not hamper the project, he added.