The Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) makes a 10-point recommendation, including bringing legal reforms, to ensure the government's neutrality during the next parliamentary elections.
A six-member team of the local chapter of the Berlin-based Transparency International placed the proposals as it met chief election commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal on Monday, reads a press release.
TIB executive director Dr Iftekharuzzaman says people have expectations and concern over the formation of a pool-time government and its characteristics.
To this effect, he adds, the election commission (EC) can give thoughtful advice to the government.
The TIB urges the EC to take steps to reform laws to ensure the election-time government's impartial role during the election period.
At the meeting, it also proposes to maintain a level-playing field for candidates.
"Now, lawmakers and cabinet members can participate in polls while continuing to hold their status and many feel it hinders a level-playing field," Dr Zaman cites.
"But it depends on the election commission whether it will propose for changes."
The TIB also proposes no bar to free flow of information so that the media, local and international observers can monitor elections without a hitch.
It suggests that steps be taken to ensure full internet speed or 4G and 3G networks for mobile phones is active and unhindered movement of motorised vehicles.
About electronic voting machine (EVM), Dr Zaman calls for the EC to reach a decision on using the device once it is technically sound and accepted by all stakeholders.
For violation of electoral codes of conduct, the TIB suggests that the EC take stern action against any event of violations in the next elections after a fair investigation.
Seeking steps for easy access of domestic and overseas election observers, it suggests releasing updated information on annual income, expenditure and assets of political parties.
jubairfe1980@gmail.com
