Dhaka, Nov 24 (V7N) – AMM Nasir Uddin, the newly-appointed Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), has expressed that he does not want another one-sided election like those held under the previous government, which he says left the country in a dire state.

Speaking at a views exchange meeting with journalists at the Election Commission headquarters on Sunday, Nasir emphasized that the election date will be set only after necessary electoral reforms are implemented.

"The date of the election will be fixed after the required electoral reforms," he stated, adding that the commission is committed to holding free and fair elections.

"We will work to fulfil the national expectations. We will ensure a free and fair election with all our strength. I have never failed in my life and have faced challenges without failure," Nasir added.

The CEC also called on journalists to cooperate with the Election Commission in restoring voter trust. He explained that people no longer have faith in voting because of previous experiences and the inability to cast their votes.

"You [journalists] have written about this. We will need your help to restore voter confidence and to work with pure intentions," he said.

In response to a question, Nasir acknowledged that holding a free and fair election is the biggest challenge facing the commission.

Earlier, Nasir and four other newly-appointed election commissioners took an oath before the Chief Justice at the Supreme Court. The other commissioners are Md Anwarul Islam Sarker, Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Begum Tahmida Ahmed, and Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah.

Speaking after the ceremony, Nasir expressed his commitment to not violating his oath, unlike previous election commissions. He said, “I consider this role as a great opportunity to serve the nation.”

He assured the public that with the cooperation of the media, people, and political parties, the commission will provide a free, fair, and credible election.

Nasir also addressed the need for electoral reforms, saying, "Reform is an ongoing process. But to conduct an election, certain essential reforms are required. Some are calling for proportional representation elections, while others advocate for the previous method. If the Constitution does not provide a solution to this, how can we conduct the election?"

He further noted that the commission requires a new voter list, including young voters, to engage the younger generation in the democratic process.

Nasir concluded by saying, “There is not much time left. The government has set the deadline for December, which is very close. Please be assured that our intentions are correct.”

END/MSS/AJ