EC pledges transparent nat'l polls, rules out manipulation

Election Commissioner (EC) Abdur Rahmanel Masud on Saturday assured voters that the upcoming national election will be conducted without any form of manipulation, saying the overall environment is favourable for a credible and participatory vote.

Speaking at an exchange of views with local journalists in Rangpur, Masud said extensive preparations are underway to ensure a smooth electoral process. 

He noted that around 1.8 million officials and personnel, including returning and assistant returning officers, members of the police, Border Guard Bangladesh, the army, and Ansar-VDP, have been deployed nationwide to support election operations.

“All those involved are committed to delivering a credible election for the nation,” he said at the meeting held at the Rangpur Circuit House in connection with the 13th Jatiya Sangsad Election and the referendum.

The session was attended by members of the district law and order cell, vigilance and observation team, election investigation and judicial committee, as well as executive magistrates overseeing six parliamentary constituencies in Rangpur.

Masud said the Election Commission is operating without undue pressure, although cooperation from all stakeholders remains essential to ensure an orderly and widely accepted election. He urged citizens and political actors to refrain from activities that could undermine the polling environment.

“There have been significant changes in the country’s political climate and voting culture,” he said, adding that leaders of the two major political parties have assured the commission of their support in maintaining a level playing field. 

He noted that parties opposing certain commission decisions have already removed campaign posters and cancelled planned tours as part of efforts to reduce tensions.

Commenting on political rhetoric, Masud described exchanges between rival parties as part of electoral strategy, but reiterated a firm stance against violence and killings. 

He said law enforcement agencies have been instructed to carry out an impartial investigation into the recent killing of Sharif Osman Hadi.

The meeting was chaired by Rangpur District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Enamul Ahsan, with Regional Election Officer Delwar Hossain, Superintendent of Police Marufat Hussaine, Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Toffael Hossain and other senior officials in attendance.

LY/SA