Dhaka, Feb 3 (V7N) –Election Commissioner (EC) Brigadier General (Retd) Abul Fazl Md Sanaullah on Monday said that the Election Commission has taken responsibility with the aim of conducting a truly free, fair, festive, and neutral election.
"One of the key reasons behind the discussions in July-August was the loss of voting rights. The current commission has assumed duty amid a fragile electoral system. On the other side lies the blood of our children. Therefore, this commission is committed to ensuring a free, fair, and neutral election," he said while responding to questions from journalists after a discussion meeting organized by the Election Commission in Rajshahi.
He further said: "As per the announcement of the chief adviser of the interim government, the Election Commission is preparing for the 13th National Parliamentary Election."
The commissioner added: "Those who have reached voting age but were unable to vote until now are also eagerly waiting for a fair election. Hence, officials must ensure that no eligible citizen is deprived of becoming a voter due to optional paperwork or minor complications."
Regarding the organization of local government elections, Sanaullah said: "The Election Commission does not decide on local elections. The constitutional responsibility of the Election Commission is to conduct the parliamentary elections and presidential elections. As an additional duty, when the Local Government Ministry decides to hold local elections, we conduct them. Therefore, whether local elections will be held, and when, is a decision for the government. We will be informed once a decision is made."
When asked about officials responsible during previous controversial elections, he said: "No one involved in election management is above the law. Those of us currently in charge are also not above the law. If anyone has deliberately committed any wrongdoing, they may have to face a court of law. This is not a matter for the Election Commission but for the legal system."
END/MSS/AJ
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