There’s no option to bring any ministry or division under the election commission’s jurisdiction during the polls, says Commissioner Kabita Khanam.
“It will contradict the Constitution,” she told the media on Wednesday before adding that the charter stipulates that the executive branch of the state is the prime minister’s jurisdiction.
Her remarks came in reference Commissioner Mahbub Talukder’s 5-point, which the commission declined to discuss during its meeting on Monday (Oct 15). Talukder walked out of the meeting registering a complaint that he was not allowed exercise his freedom of speech.
He later told the media ‘felt insulted’ for not being allowed to present his proposals even when he had been asked to do so.
The commissioner stayed in his room for the rest of the day when Chief Election Commissioner KM Nurul Huda discussed different issues, including preparations for the general election, with three other commissioners throughout the day.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Commissioner Khanam said, “(Talukdar’s) initial proposal was bringing five ministries under the EC’s jurisdiction, which gradually came down to two. But the Constitution does not allow that, which is clearly stated in Article 55 (2). So there’s no reason to discuss it.”
On Talukdar’s proposal on deploying army for the polls, Khanam said that it was not a priority at this moment. “That can be discussed in the coming days. And it seems that talks with government are not necessary at this moment. With the time left for the election, it’s not possible to hold dialogue with political parties.”
Responding to a query on dissolving Parliament before the polls, she said that the EC operates in with the Constitution. “It’s not the EC’s jurisdiction,” added the commissioner.
A disagreement does not necessarily mean a rift, said Khanam.
“(Talukdar) briefed the media after the boycotting the meeting, which sends a message of cracks opening. But the EC does not it see it that way. Difference of opinion is natural in a five-strong Commission.”

According to Commissioner Khanam, there’s no need for many changes in the existing electoral code of conduct.

On the issue of ministers and lawmakers taking part in campaign, she said, “The existing code bars VIPs cannot use government facilities while campaigning. The definition of VIP, includes the speaker of parliament, prime minister, leader of the opposition, ministers, MPs and mayors.”

Asked whether a level-playing field can be ensured with MPs allowing to campaign, Khanam said the electoral code of conduct is meant to ensure it.

“There will be no issues, if it’s implemented properly as the law applies to everyone. And the EC will take steps in case of violations, “said the election commissioner