Editorial
Election Commission's action
A praiseworthy step
We commend the Election Commission (EC) for its prompt action against the Chittagong Metropolitan Police Commissioner, following the allegations against him by the Nagorik Committee of harassment of the opposition activists and of favouring the ruling alliance candidate. The directive of the Election Commission (EC) for his removal 'for his failure to discharge his duties impartially' was not only an appropriate step, it is also a laudable one. It clearly shows that the EC is capable of taking such actions; and can actually take such actions when it wants to. We are also glad to see the expeditious steps taken by the authorities after the verdict was announced in that it was quickly followed up by the ministry concerned, which attached the official to the headquarters. Such prompt action by the administration will reflect positively on the public perception of the relationship between the government and the EC. Especially since the two did not see eye to eye on certain issues in the past. We, at The Daily Star, have always been protagonists for an independent and effective EC. We want an EC that would be objective and fair, and which would not only not give in to any extraneous influence, it should be also seen to be as such. And, needless to say, the latest action by the EC is a prime example of that. If the EC were not allowed to function according to its mandate we are afraid the debate over unfairness on its part in holding elections would continue. That's why, in keeping with our demand for electoral reforms, we want to take this opportunity to categorically state that the EC should not only be allowed to act independently, it must also be vested with more powers to do so effectively. It's high time the authorities amended the relevant laws to this effect. The EC is one of the most important adjuncts of our political institution whose credibility in holding fair and free elections will add to the credibility of our political system.
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