Chandpur: Election Commissioner Brig. Gen. Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah (retd.) assured today that no disruptions will be tolerated at polling centers, emphasizing the Election Commission's commitment to a free and fair electoral process.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sanaullah spoke as the chief guest at a views-exchange meeting with the district law and order committee in the Chandpur Deputy Commissioner's Office conference room. He reassured political parties, candidates, and voters that the election would be conducted safely, with strict adherence to the code of conduct. "There will be no scope for exerting influence at the centers, creating unnecessary crowds, or violating the code of conduct," he stated.
Sanaullah highlighted the EC's primary objective of ensuring a free, fair, and credible election, focusing on creating an environment where voters can cast their votes without fear or obstruction. He emphasized, "A festive atmosphere will be created at polling centers so that those who attempt to intimidate others are deterred."
Assistance to voters with disabilities was also prioritized, with Sanaullah noting that around 10 executive magistrates and judicial magistrates would be deployed in each constituency to maintain order. "These teams will work in three phases," he explained, emphasizing the need for transparency, neutrality, and firmness in election duties.
He assured that there would be no biased directives from the Election Commission and mentioned that officials are working on several new ideas and campaigns for this election. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that postal votes are cast personally by voters to avoid any misuse.
Sanaullah connected the significance of fair elections to Bangladesh's international standing and its implications for trade, investment, and employment. He expressed a desire to see a new Bangladesh emerge through the upcoming election, learning from past democratic deficits.
The meeting, chaired by Chandpur Deputy Commissioner Md. Nazmul Islam Sarker, also included inputs from District Election Officer Ziaur Rahman Khalifa and was moderated by Additional Deputy Commissioner Md. Ershad Uddin. Information about Chandpur district's five parliamentary constituencies was presented, highlighting that Chandpur ranks fifth nationwide with 46,436 registered postal voters.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha