Dhaka: BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan today expressed optimism regarding the Election Commission’s (EC) preparedness for the upcoming national elections scheduled for February next year. “After talks with them (EC) what we understood that their preparedness is underway for the polls as needed,” Khan conveyed to reporters following a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission Building.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the BNP delegation, which included Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi and Chairperson’s Adviser Ismail Zabiullah, primarily focused their discussions on the EC’s preparations for the elections, the electoral code of conduct, and constituency demarcations. Khan highlighted that the EC is reportedly taking necessary steps for the elections, although concerns about law and order persist, particularly regarding police efficiency.
Khan elaborated on the current state of the police force, attributing their weaknesses to past governmental influences. He expressed hope that these issues would be addressed in the coming months. The EC informed the delegation that additional military deployment might be considered to ensure order during the elections, with current forces already active. Moreover, the EC plans to request the involvement of the navy and Coast Guard in coastal areas.
Khan reassured that, during the election period, the government is expected to comply with EC requests, minimizing concerns about law and order. He urged political parties to contribute positively to maintaining stability. The BNP leader emphasized the peaceful participation of their party members in elections and encouraged similar attitudes across all political parties.
The EC’s efforts in demarcating constituencies were also noted, aiming to maintain district integrity and geographic proximity while considering voter numbers. Khan informed that under election laws, political parties cannot contest constituency demarcations, but individuals or candidates can. The EC plans to address complaints from BNP candidates starting tomorrow.
Addressing doubts about the elections’ certainty in February, Khan reiterated assurances from officials, including the Chief Adviser, that the elections would proceed on schedule. He conveyed confidence in the BNP’s unified approach to governance if elected, as articulated by the party’s acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.