CEC hopes for 'competitive' upazila polls

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) KM Nurul Huda yesterday said it is disappointing for the Election Commission (EC) that some of the major political parties are not taking part in the upcoming upazila election. He was, however, optimistic that the polls would be “competitive” despite non-participation of some major parties.

The CEC was speaking as chief guest at a programme for trainers at the Election Training Institute in Dhaka's Agargaon.

“Many major political parties are not participating in the upazila election. This is of course disappointing for us,” Nurul Huda said.

“Local government election usually sees stiff competition as local people become candidates,” he said.

The CEC urged EC officials to act neutrally while discharging their duties during the election.

“If anyone works for any particular party or individual, the commission will be tough on them,” he said, adding, “None will be spared if found guilty.”  

“You belong to no party. As officials of the state, you are only accountable to the constitution, laws and principles,” the CEC told EC officials.

The first of the five-phase upazila polls will be held in 87 upazilas on March 10. Second phase in 124 upazilas will be held on March 18.