No more ‘stage-managed’ election
Staff Reporter :
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin on Thursday reiterated that no manipulated or “stage-managed” election would be held in Bangladesh, stressing that there was “no reason to take to the streets.”
“There will be no stage-managed election, so there is no need for street agitation. Insha’Allah, no orchestrated polls will ever be held in this country,” the CEC told reporters during a visit to the appeal filing centre at the Election Commission Bhaban in Agargaon, Dhaka.
His remarks coincided with the start of the appeal process against decisions by returning officers on the acceptance and rejection of nomination papers for the 13th national parliamentary election.
Nasir Uddin said the commission, acting as the appellate authority, would ensure the “highest level of justice” in hearing the appeals. “If a returning officer rejects or accepts any nomination paper, the aggrieved person has the right to file an appeal in both cases,” he added.
Emphasising the commission’s role, the CEC said: “We believe in justice and we will deliver justice. After the hearings, you will see that justice has been ensured in accordance with the law and rules. The law is equal for all, and everyone is bound to abide by it.”
Responding to questions about the pre-election environment, Nasir Uddin noted that previous nomination periods were often marred by violence and bomb attacks. “This time, nomination papers were submitted in a very congenial environment, and no incidents of violence were reported anywhere,” he said, describing it as a positive development for the electoral process.
He also highlighted that the legal framework allows candidates to seek remedies through the appeal process, enabling them to challenge returning officers’ decisions before the commission.
Describing the Election Commission as a focal point of public interest, the CEC said the large number of people arriving to file appeals reflected growing engagement with the electoral process. “People are coming from far-flung areas to submit appeals, which proves their interest in the election,” he added.
The appeal hearings are expected to play a crucial role in finalising the list of candidates at a time when the political climate remains under close scrutiny. The commission has repeatedly stated that it aims to conduct the polls in accordance with the constitution and electoral laws, ensuring equal treatment for all candidates.
Thursday’s remarks come amid heightened debate over electoral credibility, with the CEC seeking to reassure political parties and voters that disputes over nominations would be resolved transparently through legal channels and that no manipulated process would be tolerated.