Barishal: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin announced that the schedule for the upcoming Jatiya Sangsad election is expected to be released in the first half of December, provided the election is conducted in the first half of February. “If we have to hold the election in the first half of February next, we will have to announce the polls schedule in the first half of December. We are proceeding with that goal,” he stated during a briefing with journalists at the Circuit House auditorium after meeting with divisional and district-level officials.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the CEC emphasized the commitment to a free and fair election, reassuring that both the Election Commission and local administration are determined to work collaboratively towards this objective. He expressed confidence that the forthcoming election would not resemble the last two or three elections, acknowledging potential challenges but affirming a positive approach to overcoming them.
Nasir underscored the critical role of journalists in the upcoming election, warning against spreading unverified rumors that could lead to serious incidents. The Election Commission, he noted, has enacted laws to address misinformation and established a special cell to combat such issues.
Regarding the NCP’s request for the ‘Shapla (Water Lily)’ symbol, the CEC clarified that political parties must select symbols from the official list maintained by the Election Commission, and the requested symbol is not included in that list. On the topic of Proportional Representation, he acknowledged the ongoing political debate but reiterated the Commission’s commitment to adhering strictly to legal frameworks without engaging in political controversies.
The CEC also mentioned that arrangements are being made to allow Bangladeshi expatriates to vote, with registration conducted digitally and voting occurring manually. He assured that those involved in election duties would also be able to cast their votes.
Regarding the Awami League’s participation in the electoral race, Nasir noted that the party’s activities are currently banned by the government, preventing its participation until the issue is resolved. He stressed that the Election Commission operates independently, free from external influence.
The meeting was attended by the Divisional Commissioner of Barishal, Deputy Commissioners of six districts, and senior officials from the administration and law enforcement agencies.