Election Commissioner Rashida Sultana emphasized on Thursday that the integrity of the electoral system is crucial for maintaining democracy, warning that its destruction would lead to the end of democratic governance in the country.

“The EC has made concerted efforts to ensure that all elections are conducted in a manner that is free, fair, participatory, and acceptable to all parties involved,” she stated.

She affirmed the Commission's commitment to fostering a secure and peaceful environment for voters, ensuring they can cast their ballots without fear or violence.

Rashida made these remarks during a view exchange program with returning officers, assistant returning officers, law enforcement officials, election-related personnel, and chairman candidates ahead of the third and fourth phases of the upazila parishad elections at the Naogaon DC office auditorium.

She reiterated that the Election Commission is striving to create a conducive environment for voters to participate in elections without intimidation and in a violence-free setting.

Referring to the first and second phases of the sixth upazila parishad elections, Rashida noted that they concluded peacefully. She expressed hope that the upcoming third and fourth phases would be even more peaceful and free of violence, enhancing public confidence in the EC’s ability to conduct fair elections.

“The EC does not work with the objective of making anyone a winner which is being reflected in the EC’s order issued for administration and law enforcement agencies,” she stated.

EC Rashida urged candidates to adhere strictly to the electoral code of conduct during their campaigns, particularly in avoiding hate speech. She encouraged them to foster a voter-friendly atmosphere to boost voter turnout.

She assured that any complaints submitted to the Commission by candidates would be promptly addressed through proper investigation. She also called on election-related officials to perform their duties impartially to prevent any allegations of bias.

The view exchange program was chaired by Naogaon Deputy Commissioner Md Golam Maola, and attended by Rajshahi Divisional Additional Commissioner Imtiaz Hossain, Rajshahi Range Additional DIG Bijoy Basak, Naogaon Superintendent of Police (SP) Md Rashidul Haque, and Rajshahi Regional Election Officer Delwar Hossain, among others.