Victory must come through votes: EC
Staff Reporter :
Election Commissioner Brigadier General (retd) Abul Fazl Md Sanaullah said that winning the upcoming election is only possible through genuine public support and votes, making it clear that there will be no room for manipulation or unfair means.
He made the remarks on Saturday morning while addressing a coordination meeting with law enforcement cells and vigilance teams at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference room in Bhola.
Sanaullah said the Election Commission has not issued, and will not issue, any partisan or biased instructions.
Warning election-related officials, he said the commission would take “extremely tough” action against anyone who fails to rise above personal preferences and compromises neutrality.
Highlighting the broader significance of the election, the commissioner said it is not merely about restoring democratic processes.
“This election is directly linked to the nation’s image, our position in the international arena, business and trade, foreign investment, employment, social stability, and law and order,” he said, adding that it should not be treated as a routine or ceremonial exercise.
Calling on law enforcement agencies to perform their duties with courage and professionalism, Sanaullah stressed that fear, intimidation, terror, or mob pressure must not deter officials from carrying out their responsibilities.
He urged them to ensure a secure and voter-friendly environment at polling centers.
The meeting was attended by Bhola Deputy Commissioner Dr Shamim Rahman, Superintendent of Police Md Shahidullah Kawsar, assistant returning officers, officers-in-charge of various police stations, and other senior district-level officials.
In separate coordination meetings held in Jhalokathi, the election commissioner reiterated that the 13th parliamentary election and referendum are crucial for maintaining national stability and credibility.
He emphasised that the Election Commission is working relentlessly to ensure a transparent, free, fair, and credible election and warned that no allegations regarding bias or misconduct would be tolerated.
Officials present at the Jhalokathi meeting included senior members of the local administration, law enforcement agencies, and representatives of vigilance and observation teams, where special emphasis was placed on polling center security, vigilance operations, and swift decision-making in any situation.