Dhaka, Feb 23 (V7N)- The Election Commission (EC) is working with the target of holding elections in December, said Election Commissioner Md. Anwarul Islam Sarkar. He emphasized that the commission operates independently and will not act under any external instructions or pressure.

Speaking to journalists at his office in the Election Building on Sunday, EC Anwarul stated that the commission is aiming to announce the election schedule by December. To meet this goal, all necessary preparations must be completed by July-August.

"The commission will not work under anyone’s instructions. The commission is independent. It will not take anyone’s advantages or disadvantages into consideration. The EC will not bow to any pressure," he reiterated.

Regarding local government elections, he mentioned that the Local Government Commission’s proposal to hold votes by June lacks clarity. He pointed out that amending relevant laws and ensuring proper preparations will take time.

On political party registration, he stated that the EC will act based on a consensus on the proposed party registration reforms. He stressed the necessity of a party registration law, noting that modifications might be made.

The EC is also working to remove a significant number of deceased voters from the electoral roll. Additionally, nearly 400 applications have been submitted for redrawing parliamentary boundaries, and the commission believes that a seat rearrangement is necessary.

With preparations in full swing, the Election Commission remains firm in its commitment to conducting a fair and independent election process.

END/MSS/AJ