Commission working within constitution, voters have nothing to fear: CEC

Bangladesh’s Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Wednesday reaffirmed that the Election Commission is carrying out its duties in line with constitutional obligations and commitments to ensure a free, fair and credible election, saying there is “nothing to fear.”

He made the remarks while addressing journalists and foreign election observers at a briefing organised by the EC Secretariat in the capital on Wednesday.

Asked whether the fate of his predecessors - two former CECs currently in jail for failing to discharge their duties - was a concern, Nasir Uddin said the commission is working strictly within the framework of the Constitution and existing laws.

“We are focused on fulfilling our commitments to the nation. Since we are acting within constitutional and legal bounds, there is no reason for fear,” he said.

The CEC said all preparations for Thursday’s 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum have been completed. Nationwide voter awareness activities are being conducted in coordination with government departments to encourage participation.

Voting and counting will take place at polling centres under the supervision of presiding officers, candidates’ agents, accredited observers and journalists. Ballots will be counted immediately after voting ends, with results first announced locally before being consolidated and officially declared by returning officers.

Nasir Uddin stressed that transparency has been the foundation of the election process.

He said representatives from 45 countries and international organisations, including over 330 observers - around 220 from the European Union - and more than 160 international journalists are monitoring the election. Domestically, over 45,000 observers from 81 registered organisations and 60,000 journalists have been accredited through proper scrutiny.

“Coordination with government officials and institutions has been ensured to facilitate smooth election management. Journalists and observers are welcome, and voter privacy will be maintained,” he said.

“Professional and impartial reporting will enhance public trust and strengthen democratic confidence,” the CEC added.