Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin has firmly declared that the country's upcoming local government elections will be as free, fair, and universally acceptable as national elections. He reiterated the Election Commission's unwavering commitment in this regard, stating that only those deemed qualified according to election laws and regulations will have the opportunity to contest the elections. The CEC made it clear that the Election Commission will not issue any unlawful directives, which is essential for conducting an impartial and credible election. He made these remarks to journalists on Wednesday (September 9) after a discussion meeting titled 'Training on Enhancing Police Skills and Capabilities for Professional Execution of Electoral Duties' held at Rajarbagh in the capital.
CEC A M M Nasir Uddin emphasized in his speech that there is no lack of commitment from the Election Commission. He stated that no unreasonable or unlawful orders would be given to the police during elections, and he could provide a complete guarantee in this regard. Concurrently, the police force has also pledged its full cooperation in organizing a fair and credible election. The CEC noted that they are rapidly preparing to hold local government elections, a process that largely depends on the police's capabilities and professionalism. He had requested the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to arrange urgent training for police members who had not previously been trained in election-related activities, and he expressed satisfaction that this program commenced within approximately two weeks. Wednesday's event was the inaugural phase of that extensive training program.
Both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Election Commission are firmly committed to conducting a free, fair, and credible election. The CEC stated, "Just as we successfully and beautifully organized the national elections, we aim to complete the local government elections with the same standards and quality." He added, "We have sought the active cooperation of the police to deliver a credible and acceptable election, and the Ministry of Home Affairs has also given its full commitment to provide all-out support to the Election Commission." The CEC further added that just as the Election Commission has a constitutional and legal responsibility to conduct local government elections fairly, the police force also has a legal obligation to assist them and organize a smooth election. This joint effort and commitment will lay the foundation for a successful election.
Through the results of the national elections, the Election Commission has been able to prove that it can organize an impartial and effective election. The CEC confidently stated that the crisis of public trust in the Election Commission, which had emerged previously, has largely been restored. Not only the Election Commission but also the lack of public trust in the civil service, police, and other law enforcement agencies has been recovered. He said that all government agencies, the Election Commission, and our administration have proven their ability to successfully perform their duties. Similarly, they have promised the CEC that they will make their utmost efforts to ensure that the local government elections are also held to the same standards and quality. This revived trust carries a positive message for future elections.
However, the CEC also mentioned some limitations of the police force. He stated that they have a shortage of vehicles. This shortage becomes more pronounced during election periods due to additional duties. Many of their vehicles were damaged or burned in various acts of violence that occurred in July-August last year, and their full replacement has not yet been possible. They have brought this vehicle shortage to the attention of the Election Commission. Additionally, this training will cost approximately 22 crore Taka, which they will have to bear from their regular training fund. The CEC also mentioned that this is quite difficult for them, and they have applied for some additional funds in this sector. Ensuring a fair election by overcoming these financial and logistical challenges is a significant task.
The CEC further informed that the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Ansar forces would also gradually commence their election-centric training activities. He expressed hope that everyone, working together, would be able to present the nation with a fair local government election. In response to a question about the law and order situation, the CEC said that the current situation is not new. He noted, "You have seen the situation after August of '24. The current situation is not worse than what it was during the national elections; rather, it has improved." He expressed full confidence in his police, stating that if they are committed to fulfilling their promises, they will certainly succeed. The IGP has also confirmed his capabilities in this regard.
The CEC also stated that those who have previously served in local government elections will again carry out these important responsibilities. He believes this will maintain continuity of experience and ensure professionalism in election management. The application of this continuity and experience is crucial for a smooth and effective electoral process. Overall, the CEC expressed hope that the combined efforts and commitment of the Election Commission and all relevant forces would pave the way for organizing a free, fair, and credible local government election.
