13th National Polls: No PR system, no govt pressure ahead of polls
Staff Reporter :
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin said “If pressure comes, I will resign. I will not remain in this chair.”
While speaking at a views-exchange meeting with election officials from the Rajshahi region at the Regional Public Administration Training Centre on Saturday, the CEC noted that while political parties continue to debate the issue, the Election Commission (EC) has no authority to act beyond the Constitution.
Responding to a question, he stressed that so far there has been no government pressure on the EC.
He said that parliamentary elections under a proportional representation (PR) system cannot be held unless the Constitution is amended.
He confirmed that preparations are underway to hold the next national elections before Ramadan in February. Issuing a stern warning, he said those hoping to capture ballot boxes “will be disappointed.”
“The law and order situation will improve as the polls draw nearer. Anyone attempting to occupy polling centres will face strict action, and if a centre is seized, the entire polling there will be cancelled,” he cautioned.
Nasir also revealed that the EC is working to include the army in law enforcement duties during the election period.
On the political situation, the CEC remarked that the Awami League currently has no active political activities due to ongoing trials. “During the trial proceedings, Awami League leaders cannot participate in elections. Let us see what happens in the verdict,” he said.
He further stated that the Election Commission has around 5,700 officials with previous polling experience. However, those found guilty of irregularities in past elections will not be reappointed.
The CEC also provided detailed instructions to regional officials on preparations for the upcoming polls.