Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has said that understanding and cooperation among political parties are necessary to establish a continuous culture of free and acceptable elections in the country, not just a single successful election.

He said political parties must first play a responsible role in making local government elections free from violence and more participatory.

The CEC was speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the new committee of the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED) at the Election Training Institute (ETI) in the capital’s Agargaon here today. 

The CEC said the beauty of democracy lies not in one-sided praise or criticism of elections, but in giving importance to all perspectives.

He said the commission did not show any political bias while carrying out its responsibilities. The commission worked based on law, conscience, and accountability, he said, adding, “Our intention was to organize a free, fair, and credible election and ensure equal opportunities for all candidates.
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The CEC said the interim government had given full independence and cooperation to the Election Commission. 

He stated that there had been no interference from the government. Rather, the head of the government instructed the commission to work independently, he said.

About local government elections, he said that although elections are being held without party symbols, different political parties have already begun announcing candidate nominations, creating fresh concerns. 

Mentioning past experiences, he said local government elections often witness violence and loss of lives. The CEC urged the political parties to sit together and reach an understanding among themselves as the local government elections are held in a proper manner.

He emphasized increasing training and awareness among political parties, voters, journalists, and all concerned stakeholders.

The CEC said work is underway to amend the code of conduct and operational rules for local government elections. 

After completing these preparations and consulting with the government, the election schedule will be announced, he said.

Jatiya Sangsad Whip Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu, Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary General A. H. M. Hamidur Rahman Azad, NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari, National Press Club President Helal Hafiz, DUJ President Shahidul Islam, and Broadcast Journalists Center President Fahim Ahmed also spoke with RFED President Kazi Emad Uddin Jebel in the chair.