Staff Correspondent
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin has announced that preparations are in full swing to hold the upcoming national election in February, before the month of Ramadan. The final voter list will be published within two weeks, while hearings on constituency demarcations will continue until next week. Work is also ongoing to select polling centers.
Speaking at a views-exchange meeting with election officials of the Rajshahi region on Saturday (23 August) at the Regional Public Administration Training Center, the CEC issued a stern warning against attempts to capture polling stations. “Those dreaming of capturing polling centers will see their dreams turn into nightmares. Any attempt to seize a center will result in the cancellation of the entire polling at that center,” he said.
Nasir Uddin further stated that election officials previously accused of involvement in vote rigging will not be engaged in the upcoming polls. He also mentioned that the ruling Awami League will not be allowed to participate in the election until ongoing judicial proceedings are completed.
He added that law and order has improved and will further improve as the election approaches. Special drives will be conducted to recover illegal arms before voting, ensuring that no one can win through intimidation or violence.
The CEC also noted that there is no provision for a Proportional Representation (PR) system in the Constitution, though political discussions are ongoing about it.