Dhaka: The Election Commission (EC) has submitted a seven-point set of recommendations to the government aimed at empowering presiding officers, strengthening their role, and enhancing security measures at polling centres ahead of the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, in addition to forwarding the proposals to the government, the EC has also disseminated copies to district and upazila election officers. This move seeks further suggestions to boost the capacity of electoral officials and ensure uninterrupted communication through mobile apps.
A letter signed by Md Monir Hossain, Deputy Secretary of the EC’s election conducting wing, outlined that under Section 9 (Kha) of the Representation of the People Order, 1972, returning officers appoint presiding officers and assistant presiding officers to conduct polling activities.
The commission has highlighted the urgent need to enhance the powers, responsibilities, and security of presiding officers. These officers serve as the chief authority at polling centres and their empowerment is deemed essential to ensure free, fair, and impartial elections.
The proposed recommendations include providing necessary transportation for election officials and voting equipment to polling centres. Additionally, an Ansar or police personnel is to be assigned as a bodyguard for each presiding officer from the time of receiving election materials to the submission of results. The appointment of an office assistant for each presiding officer to manage administrative tasks is also suggested. Furthermore, the recommendations stress the importance of ensuring continuous communication between presiding officers, returning officers, law enforcement agencies, and the EC control room.