Dhaka: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin emphasized the necessity of understanding and cooperation among political parties to establish a culture of free and acceptable elections in the country. He highlighted that achieving this requires more than just one successful election, but a continuous effort from all political entities involved.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the CEC stressed the importance of political parties playing a responsible role, particularly in making local government elections free from violence and more participatory. His remarks were made during the inauguration ceremony of the new committee of the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED) at the Election Training Institute (ETI) in Agargaon.
The CEC articulated that the essence of democracy is not found in unilateral praise or criticism of elections, but rather in acknowledging all perspectives. He assured that the commission had not displayed any political bias and had operated based on law, conscience, and accountability, with the goal of organizing free, fair, and credible elections, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.
He further stated that the interim government had provided full independence and cooperation to the Election Commission, with no interference from the government. The head of the government had explicitly instructed the commission to operate independently.
Discussing local government elections, the CEC noted that despite elections being held without party symbols, political parties have begun announcing candidate nominations, raising new concerns. He recalled past experiences where such elections often resulted in violence and loss of lives, urging political parties to reach a consensus to ensure proper conduct of the elections.
The CEC also discussed the importance of increasing training and awareness among political parties, voters, journalists, and all stakeholders involved. Efforts are being made to amend the code of conduct and operational rules for local government elections, with the election schedule to be announced after consultations with the government.
The event also saw speeches from notable figures including Jatiya Sangsad Whip Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu, Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary General A. H. M. Hamidur Rahman Azad, NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari, National Press Club President Helal Hafiz, DUJ President Shahidul Islam, and Broadcast Journalists Center President Fahim Ahmed, with RFED President Kazi Emad Uddin Jebel presiding.