Most parties back Electoral College for presidential election

In a significant development, the majority of political parties participating in the National Consensus Commission's second round of discussions have expressed support for changing the current presidential election process to an Electoral College-based system.

The discussions were held today (19 June) at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital, where representatives from various parties deliberated on three different models — all within the framework of the Electoral College system.

Abdullah Mohammad Taher, nayeb-e-ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, told journalists that one proposed model suggests a bicameral legislature, with 100 reserved seats for women, making up a total of 500 votes for the presidential election through both upper and lower houses.

He mentioned that several participants proposed the inclusion of 76 additional votes from zila parishads and city corporations.

"Regardless of the exact process, we support the extended Electoral College system," said Taher, adding, "We have also recommended that the presidential election be conducted through secret ballots. All internal elections of Jamaat are held through secret ballots; the presidential election of the country should follow the same principle."

Speaking on behalf of the Gono Adhikar Parishad, president Nurul Haque Nur said, "The method of election is still under discussion. Some have suggested incorporating union parishads into the Electoral College, which would add another 70,000 votes beyond the existing 576."

Nur also raised concerns regarding the impartiality of the Commission, noting, "Bias towards one or two parties is still evident. This must be addressed. Additionally, several allies of the 14-party alliance led by the Awami League have been invited by the Commission. We will not support any party that aligns with fascist elements."

Jonayed Saki, chief coordinator of the Ganosamhati Andolon, echoed support for the Electoral College system, saying, "We agree on the need for a presidential election through an Electoral College, and we are even willing to compromise to reach a decision on this matter."

Political parties involved in the dialogue agreed that the process would be significantly more effective if Article 70 of the Constitution were amended and voting conducted through secret ballots.

They also emphasised the need for establishing a more balanced distribution of power between the president and the prime minister.