EC confident in free, fair election as nationwide preparations intensify

Bangladesh’s Election Commission (EC) has affirmed that the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad election will be conducted transparently, emphasising robust administrative arrangements and widespread institutional support.

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud, speaking to local journalists at Rangpur Circuit House on Saturday, said the environment for the polls is sufficiently supportive and there are no indications of “election engineering.”

He highlighted the extensive preparations being undertaken to ensure a credible voting process.

“Approximately 1.8 million officials and employees, including returning officers, assistant returning officers, police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), army, and Ansar-VDP, are engaged in election work. All are committed to conducting a smooth and fair election,” he noted.

Masud stressed the importance of cooperation from political parties and citizens alike.

“Our message is clear: any activity that undermines the election will not be tolerated. People must contribute to maintaining a fair and transparent environment,” he added.

Addressing the changing political and electoral landscape, he said that major parties have shown adherence to the EC’s guidelines, removing campaign posters and cancelling activities that could disrupt the polls.

“Statements made by party leaders against each other are part of election strategy, but any form of violence or killings is condemned,” he clarified.

The commissioner also emphasised that law enforcement agencies have been tasked with investigating the murder of activist Sharif Osman Hadi in a fair and timely manner, underscoring the commitment to uphold law and order during the electoral period.

The briefing included members of the District Law and Order Cell, the Vigilance and Observation Team, the Election Investigation and Judicial Committee, and executive magistrates overseeing six Rangpur constituencies.

Rangpur District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Enamul Ahsan presided over the meeting, with senior officials including Regional Election Officer Delwar Hossain and District Police Superintendent Marufat Hussaine present.

Masud concluded by reaffirming the EC’s readiness to oversee election conducted according to established procedures, ensuring transparency, accountability and the trust of the electorate.