Chief Election Commissioner KM Nurul Huda yesterday urged judicial magistrates to perform their duties neutrally to gain people's confidence and ensure a fair election.
"You are independent, neutral. You are judges. You'll have to apply your judicious minds," he said during a briefing at the Nirbachan Bhaban in the capital's Agargaon.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. The CEC asked the magistrates to carry out their duties as per the law and constitution and to use their merit for a fair election.
“The Election Commission is accountable to the nation, constitution, political parties and public for a fair election,” he said, adding, “The commission wants an atmosphere of trust, not panic.”
Some 640 magistrates will be on-duty from December 29 to January 1 during the polls, he further said.
Election Commissioner Mahbub Talukder said their aim was to make sure no candidate goes to the Jatiya Sangsad without confirming a win through votes.
He added that action would be taken against those who show reluctance or partiality.
Mahbub then urged the judicial magistrates to take necessary measures so that voters can reach their homes safely after voting.
Election Commissioners Rafiqul Islam, Kabita Khanam, Brigadier (retd) Shahadat Hossain and EC Secretary Helaluddin Ahmed also spoke at the briefing.
SHAH MOAZZEM SEEKS LEVEL PLAYING FIELD
Meanwhile, Shah Moazzem Hossain, BNP candidate from Munshiganj -2, sought necessary actions to ensure a level playing field in the upcoming polls.
Moazzem made the request to the Election Commission yesterday, claiming his motorcade came under attack in his locality on Saturday and the attackers damaged five vehicles, fired shots and injured several supporters.
He alleged that the attackers left the scene chanting slogans for “boat” (Awami League's electoral symbol) and his supporters went into a panic after the incident.
Leave your comments