Rangpur: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin announced that the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections are slated for the first half of February next year, with the schedule expected to be released in early December. This statement was made during a view-exchange meeting with the administration and law enforcement agencies, held at the Divisional Commissioner's conference room, where CEC Nasir Uddin served as the chief guest.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting was presided over by Rangpur Divisional Commissioner Md Shahidul Islam and attended by key officials including Deputy Inspector General of Police, Rangpur Range, Md Aminul Islam, Metropolitan Commissioner Md Majid Ali, and representatives from BGB, Ansar and VDP, RAB-13, Coast Guard, DGFI, NSI, and other local election officers and law enforcement personnel. CEC Nasir Uddin emphasized that no disruptions will be tolerated during the elections and that law enforcement agencies will maintain vigilance. He also mentioned that if any incidents occur, voting may be halted pending investigation to ensure a free and fair election process.
The CEC highlighted the importance of assessing the officials involved in the electoral process to ensure smooth operations. The decision on personnel deployment will be made based on these assessments. During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner and police officials briefed the CEC on their respective organizations' preparations and capabilities for conducting the elections. CEC Nasir Uddin expressed satisfaction with the discussions and the assurances of support from the officials to ensure a transparent electoral process.
Earlier, at another meeting in the Regional Election Officer's conference room, CEC Nasir Uddin acknowledged the main challenge for the government and Election Commission is conducting a free and fair election, aiming to restore public trust in the electoral process. He noted that the current law and order situation is favorable and expressed the desire for further improvements to allow citizens to vote peacefully. The CEC urged journalists to assist in raising awareness and changing public perception about voting, highlighting the role of media in fostering electoral participation.
Moreover, CEC Nasir Uddin pointed out the misuse of artificial intelligence as a significant challenge, stressing the need for cooperation from trained journalists to combat misinformation spread through social media. He noted the issue of untrained individuals publishing misleading content online, which poses challenges to the Election Commission and its officials. The CEC called for journalistic support to address these challenges effectively.