CEC seeks neutrality from election observers

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin advised all election observers to be transparent and unbiased in carrying out their duty during the 13^th Jatiya Sangsad election.

“Those of you working in the field must stay completely neutral and ensure that everybody working under your supervision realises that the Election Commission’s sole goal is to provide a fair and credible election to the nation.  It is our joint national responsibility to maintain the highest level of impartiality, and we shall do so with honesty.”

He spoke with members from 40 observation organisations on Tuesday at the Election Commission Bhaban in Agargaon.

“During the election, the Commission will use its own official supervisory system.  We also want to see the election through your eyes.  Those working on the ground must inform us whether the process is transparent and whether the election code of conduct and other laws are being followed correctly.  You must ensure that the individuals you appoint do not affect any party’s campaign.  Remember, their role is to monitor, not interfere with the electoral process,” said AMM Nasir Uddin.

He stated that they have vowed to the nation that we will hold a fair, credible, and well-conducted election, which the Election Commission cannot do alone.  “This is a national burden that we must all bear together.  We plan to learn from the past and go forward,” he said.

The CEC emphasised that observers will play a role at all stages of the election, saying, “You will report to us on how the campaign is progressing, how polling centres are being managed, how presiding officers and police are performing their duties, and whether voters are being obstructed.”  “This report must be completely truthful; it is your responsibility because so much depends on the accuracy of your observations,” he stated.

He further stated, “If you see any problems in the commission’s management that should be addressed, please notify us.  Your recommendations will direct our future actions.  Our goal is to hold the election in complete openness and in a nice and accessible environment for voters.”

Any suggestions for enhancing election management will help shape future reforms, as the commission strives to organise a transparent and voter-friendly election, he noted.

Brig Gen (Retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah, Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Tahmida Ahmed, Md Anwarul Islam Sarkar, prominent Secretary Akhtar Ahmed, and other prominent officials took part in the dialogue.