Election Duty: Stay away from political bias

Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal yesterday directed the field level administration officials and law enforcers to perform their election duties staying away from political bias.

Speaking at the inauguration of a training session for the officials, the CEC also asked them to remain neutral while carrying out their duties during the upcoming 12th parliamentary polls.

The Election Commission yesterday started phase-wise training for divisional commissioners, district deputy commissioners, deputy inspectors general, superintendents of police and regional election officers at the Electoral Training Institute.

Usually, divisional commissioners and district DCs perform duties as returning officers during the polls while DIGs and SPs maintain law and order.

Habibul said it should be showed to the people that the election has been fair, voters have been able to enter the polling stations unhindered and exercise their franchise.

"If we can show this much to the people, and the voters can exercise their voting rights, it would be a great success ... not matter who takes part in it or not."

The CEC said that the election, likely to be held in January next year, should be free, fair and acceptable.

"With your help, law and order will be maintained properly during the polls. I hope no untoward incident and violence would occur, and a peaceful election will be held," he added.

Speaking at the event, Election Commissioner Ahsan Habib Khan said he does not like to dwell in the past. "But let's learn from the past, let us all work together to set an example of a free and fair election."

Another Election Commissioner Anisur Rahman said they want a free, fair, and participatory election as people from around the world are observing the election situation.