Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has stated that the interim government has provided two possible timelines for the forthcoming national election—by December or, if substantial reforms take place, by June.
"The interim government has set two possible deadlines—December or June, should major reforms be implemented. This will result in an increase in both deceased and newly registered voters on the list. The final voter list for the upcoming election will be available by June," he said while addressing journalists after a discussion session in Cox’s Bazar on Sunday (23 February).
EC aims to conduct an election inclusive of all parties, akin to those of 1991, 1996, and 2001, said the CEC, he added.
"We do not wish to engage in the debate over whether the national election should precede the local government elections. Our primary objective at this stage is to update an accurate voter list. At present, the list contains 16 lakh deceased voters who need to be removed," he added.
The CEC emphasised the commission’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent election, stating, "We want to present a well-conducted election, which requires the participation and cooperation of all stakeholders."
Referring to the current administration, he noted that many officials have previously overseen elections in 1991, 1996, and 2001, and reaffirmed that the Election Commission will not impose any undue pressure or make any unjust decisions.
He further instructed election officials to strictly adhere to legal protocols and assured them of the commission’s full support in executing their duties.
The discussion session was attended by the Superintendent of Police, the Regional Election Officer of the Chattogram Division, the Deputy Director of the Local Government Division in Cox’s Bazar, additional district administrators, and district election officers.
