The Jamaat-e-Islami has formally proposed that a referendum on electoral reforms be held separately in November prior to the upcoming Jatiya Sangsad elections.
The party submitted a written proposal to the Election Commission (EC) to this effect.
A Jamaat delegation, led by Nayeb-e-Amir Syed Md Abdullah Taher, met with the EC at its Agargaon office on Monday, October 13, shortly after noon.
Chief Election Commissioner MM Nasir Uddin chaired the meeting, attended by all four election commissioners and the EC secretary.
The Jamaat team also included AHM Hamidur Rahman Azad, Advocate Jasim Uddin Sarkar, and Matiur Rahman Akand.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Taher stressed the need for a distinct referendum process, separate from the general elections. “We have clearly stated that the referendum must be held independently,” he said. “Electoral reform is a fundamental and permanent issue for the nation, it transcends the timing or mechanics of any particular election.”
He argued that combining the referendum with the national polls could dilute focus on reform. “Political parties will naturally prioritise winning electoral symbols and seats, potentially overshadowing the broader reform agenda,” Taher explained. “If both processes are held together, one may compromise the other. Moreover, any delay or disruption to the election could also stall the referendum, leaving a critical national issue unresolved.”
Taher iterated that the two processes differ in nature: while general elections are about choosing representatives, the referendum concerns structural democratic reform that affects all stakeholders.
“We have conveyed this clearly to both the government and the Election Commission,” he added, noting that the EC has previously acknowledged the rationale for keeping the two processes separate.