Prepare for nat’l election

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin yesterday sought the active involvement of deputy commissioners in the electoral process, and urged them to raise public awareness regarding polls.

Speaking at a session on the final day of the Deputy Commissioners' Conference-2025 at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka, he called on the DCs to maintain neutrality and uphold electoral laws while performing their election duties.

He also reassured the DCs, who typically serve as returning officers during national elections, that there would be no pressure from higher authorities.

Speaking to reporters after the session, he said, "In the past, there was pressure from high-ups…. I've assured them that there will be no unlawful pressure exerted on them this time. We won't impose any unjust pressure, and if there is any, we'll remove it."

He added that the DCs should not wait until election day or just a few days before it to be involved in the electoral process.

"Consider yourselves already actively involved in the process from now. Wherever you speak, whether at meetings or gatherings, a portion of your speech should focus on election."

He said awareness needs to be raised among people regarding the election as many of them have lost faith in the country's electoral system.

"So when you [DCs] speak to the people, make an effort to educate them about their voting rights."

Referring to DCs as "companions of the EC during polls," he stressed that they must proactively enforce the law and perform their duties impartially.

"We've instructed them [DCs] to address election irregularities proactively, not reactively -- meaning they should take action as soon as they learn about a violation instead of waiting until a journalist or anyone else makes a complaint," he told reporters, adding that the EC hopes the DCs perform their duties as per their promise.

Highlighting that poll duties are an obligation for DCs, the CEC further said, "We promised the nation a free and fair election and we want to fulfill this promise. I've requested the DCs and divisional commissioners to play their parts fully."

Asked about discussions regarding local polls before the national election, he said the matter had not been raised.

"They [DCs] are aware of what's happening at the national level. This [question of whether local polls will come before national polls] is an ongoing political debate. From what you can see, we don't want to be a part of that debate. We'll look into the matter once a decision is made."

The session was also attended by four election commissioners and senior EC officials, who briefed the DCs on electoral rules and regulations.