Cumilla: Election Commissioner Md Anwarul Islam Sarker today emphasized the necessity of conducting fair, free, and credible elections to overcome the negative perceptions associated with past electoral processes. He made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at the inaugural session of a daylong workshop focused on electoral challenges.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the workshop, titled 'Challenges of Polling Officials in the Election Process and Way Forward,' was organized by the Election Commission Secretariat and held at the Bangladesh Rural Development Academy (BARD) in Cumilla. Anwarul highlighted the significance of the upcoming 13th national election in shaping the country's democratic future and leadership. He stressed the importance of impartiality, courage, and professionalism from all involved, including administration, police, and field-level officials.
Anwarul reiterated that successful elections are a collective effort, saying, "No one can conduct a successful election alone - it requires the collective efforts of all." He urged the presiding officers to ensure fair voting, emphasizing that they must not succumb to any form of pressure, fear, or influence. He described election management as a national responsibility and a matter of honor, urging the officials to perform their duties with honesty and integrity.
The event also featured speeches from Joint Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat Abdul Halim Khan, Cumilla Deputy Commissioner Amirul Kaiser, District Police Superintendent Nazir Ahmed Khan, Regional Election Officer Mohammad Azizul Islam, and District Senior Election Officer Sheikh Mohammad Habibur Rahman. The workshop was attended by Executive Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, Presiding Officers, and other officials from various Upazilas of Cumilla.