Election Commissioner Mohammad Anwarul Islam has announced that a clear message of conducting a free, fair, and transparent election will be conveyed during the upcoming District Commissioner conference on the evening of the 18th.
Speaking to the media at his office in the Election Commission (EC) building in Agargaon on Sunday afternoon, Anwarul Islam emphasized the crucial role of District Commissioners (DCs) in ensuring a successful election. He stated, “The role of the Election Commission is to conduct elections, and the DCs play an important role in this process. Our message to them will be to stay committed to organizing a free, fair, and transparent election because there is no alternative to holding the election.”
He further stressed, “We are determined to conduct an exemplary election, and we will do whatever it takes to ensure this happens. This message will be communicated clearly.”
Responding to criticism about the field administration not following the commission’s directives, Anwarul reminded that the elections conducted under the caretaker government were managed by the same administration. He reassured that with no political pressure from the government, the commission is optimistic about holding a smooth and fair election. “There are good examples as well as bad ones in the past, but we believe there will be no bad examples this time, and we are committed to making this election a model in Bangladesh’s history,” he said.
On the issue of the Awami League’s demand to ban or revoke its registration, Anwarul said, “It is not the time for us to comment on this matter. We need to wait a little longer; the right time will guide us.”
Regarding DCs’ political biases, the Commissioner stated that all officials are obliged to assist in the electoral process. He added that when the election schedule is announced, the commission will ensure that impartial DCs are appointed to relevant positions. “The commission will remain firm and strict in this regard,” he assured.
Regarding the appointment of Returning Officers from among the commission’s own officials, he mentioned that a final decision has not yet been made.
Liberty News’ political correspondent states that on the matter of boundary redetermination, he revealed that nearly 400 applications have been received, which will be thoroughly examined before the commission makes the appropriate decision.
LND/BAIZID
