On Wednesday, Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin articulated the necessity of establishing a definitive legal framework for the execution of the referendum.
“It is imperative that the legislation governing the conduct of the referendum be established prior to its execution.” "Once the law is established, we shall then bear a responsibility," he articulated during the second session on the fourth day of the dialogue with political parties, commemorating the 13th parliamentary elections at Nirbachan Bhaban in Agargaon, a locality in the city.
Nasir Uddin articulated that numerous enquiries were posed regarding the referendum. However, in the absence of legislation, it becomes infeasible to determine the methodology for the referendum, including aspects such as the ballot, ballot box, or any associated structures, he remarked.
He noted that the referendum law was previously established by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and Hussain Muhammad Ershad, and it is now imperative to legislate anew. Following the enactment of the law, the EC will commence its practice and preparation for this, he noted.
Reflecting on his extensive experience observing elections since the era of Pakistan, the Chief Election Commissioner remarked, “We must progress while considering the political and social realities of the nation.” I must engage with the fervent currents of political reality. The social reality manifests in a similar manner.
“Thus, we shall proceed with the policy of ‘less discourse, more implementation’,” he articulated.
He articulated that the existence of CCTV and journalists plays a crucial role in facilitating an election characterised by transparency.
He stated, “If there are astute observers, transparency will be enhanced.” I prefer not to carry out elections in a clandestine manner. The journalists will be equipped with cameras, while we shall utilise CCTV cameras. We seek clarity.
Nasir Uddin asserted that the Election Commission will uphold the principles of justice, legality, and adherence to established regulations without compromise. The commission shall persist in executing its responsibilities with unwavering impartiality. To achieve this, the collaboration of political parties, law enforcement agencies, and the electorate is essential, he noted.
The European Commission engaged in a discourse with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Gana Adhikar Parishad, Nagorik Oikya, Bangladesh Republican Party, and BSP Marxist during the afternoon session on Wednesday.
In the morning, participation was observed from Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Bangladesh Minority Janata Party, Insaniat Biplob Bangladesh, National Citizens Party (NCP), Gana Sanghati Andolan, Jatiyatabadi Ganatantrik Andolan (NDM), and Bangladesh Labour Party.
Previously, the Election Commission engaged in discussions with a total of 36 political parties, conducting two sessions with 12 parties each on November 13, 16, and 17.
.jpg "Bangladesh records 4 more measles-related deaths in past 24 hours")
