Fair polls will depend on ground’s situation: EC Anisur

Staff Reporter :
The Election Commissioner (EC) Md Anisur Rahman has said the commission’s decision on the upcoming 12th parliamentary election will largely depend on overall environment and political situation on the ground.

EC Anisur also expressed the apprehension that it will be a quite difficult task to hold a participatory and peaceful election if the rival political parties do not sit for a dialogue to resolve the political standoff centering polls.

That political parties’ compromise to each other is the main requirement to hold a participatory and peaceful election.

He, however, expressed the optimism that the 12th parliamentary election will not face major obstacles. “We have not seen any conditions or obstacles that would hinder us so far.

We understand that the political situation may or may not involve compromise, depending on the circumstances.

Our decisions will be based on the prevailing environment and conditions,” he made the statement during a discussion with reporters at the Nirbachan Bhaban in Agargaon on Wednesday.

He said: “Many political parties are coming together in different ways, and there are signs of protests and strategies. I can not predict the exact political situation or whether there will be an agreement.

I am hoping for a favourable environment. Our role will be shaped by the circumstances at that time, whether they are positive or negative.

If there’s a compromise, things will go in one way, but if not, the situation will be different. It all will depend on the situation.”

The election commissioner mentioned: “If things are going well, we will need to make specific plans to ensure voters, election materials, and poll workers’ safety.

Currently, I think that finding a compromise can solve issues. If not, we will evaluate the situation and make necessary plans based on the conditions.”

He suggested that discussions with political parties should have taken place by now, and stressed the importance of these parties considering the welfare of the people and the nation to find a solution.

Anisur Rahman emphasized: “Now is not the time for discussions. In my view, we should focus on finding a compromise that benefits the nation and its people.

We want everyone to move forward together; it’s a shared responsibility to create a conducive environment for progress.

Political parties, especially, need to prioritize the interests of the people and the country because they directly interact with the voters.”

Anisur Rahman added: “All our preparations for announcing the schedule in November are proceeding as planned, and I do not see any major obstacles ahead.

There is ample time for the details. We will provide the details in due time. I hope that at some point in November, we will present the details.”

“We are actively working on all election-related tasks, beginning with the distribution of election materials. According to the constitution, there is no room for deviation from the election process.

We can address any obstacles as they arise during the election. For now, there’s nothing more to say,” he further said.