Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has said that the party symbol will not be used in the local government elections. However, the possible election schedule is yet to be finalised.
The CEC spoke at the reception of the new committee of Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED) at the Election Training Institute in the capital’s Agargaon on Monday (May 18th).
He said that even though there is no party symbol, various political parties are already taking an active stance on behalf of their backed candidates. This will lead to local elections. The Election Commission wants a positive and acceptable electoral culture in the country to create a peaceful and democratic competition instead of violence and conflict.
The CEC also said that in the past, there have been violence, clashes and loss of life in different areas around the local government elections. Competitions, in particular in rural areas, often take a sharp turn and disputes are also created among the candidates of the same family or area. Political parties have a responsible role to play in order to get out of this situation.
He urged the political parties to ensure a bloodless election environment through dialogue and understanding.
AMM Nasir Uddin said it is not possible for the Election Commission to hold a fair election alone. In this regard, the administration, law enforcement, political parties, candidates, media and voters need collective cooperation. He said the Election Commission is also focusing on raising public awareness ahead of the local government elections.