Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A.M.M. Nasir Uddin has said he will not remain in office if the interim government attempts to dictate the Election Commission’s activities.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday morning at the Regional Public Administration Training Center in Rajshahi, he stressed the Commission’s commitment to neutrality and transparency.
Responding to a question about whether officials previously accused of vote rigging would be deployed in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, the CEC said, “I have 5,700 officials. Where will I send them all? But those who deliberately engaged in malpractice will certainly not be assigned duties.”
Nasir Uddin assured journalists that the Commission is more vigilant than people may think.
“Our officers know that this Commission will not show bias. They will work neutrally, as per the law. In the past, officials acted under pressure from previous commissions or governments, but we have no such problem,” he said.
When asked about the current government’s stance, the CEC declared: “So far, the government has not made any such demand. But the day they try, I will not remain in this chair. If the government wants to impose orders, you will not see me here.”
Issuing a stern warning against attempts to seize polling stations or ballot boxes, he said: “Those who dream of capturing polling centers must abandon this notion. We will act very strictly this time, with the help of law enforcement and the people.”
The CEC also announced intensified operations against illegal weapons ahead of the election, warning that anyone planning to use arms to influence results would face severe consequences.
He further revealed that the Election Commission is working to formally include the armed forces within the definition of law enforcement agencies during the election, ensuring the involvement of the army, navy, air force, and coast guard.
Highlighting stricter measures, Nasir Uddin stated that if chaos or irregularities are reported in any constituency, voting in the entire seat may be canceled. “We are determined to ensure a free, fair, and acceptable election. Our instructions to officials are clear: act strictly according to the law, with no unlawful orders or partisan influence.”
On the broader political climate, he expressed optimism that law and order will remain stable before polling day, noting that the chief adviser has instructed all agencies to complete election preparations by December.
Addressing questions on political participation, the CEC said, “Whether all parties join the election will be determined in time. I believe all political parties want the country’s welfare. Ultimately, they will reach an understanding. As for the Awami League, their political activities remain suspended until the conclusion of ongoing trials.”
Following his remarks, the CEC attended a views-exchange meeting with election officials from the Rajshahi region, organized by the Regional Election Office and chaired by Regional Election Officer Delwar Hossain.
