CEC vow to ensure fair Upazila polls at any cost

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal has given a message to make the elections fair at any cost. He said, if the upazila elections fail, the democratic continuity may be undermined.

Speaking at a law and order meeting with field administration officials ahead of the upazila parishad election, held at Agargaon in the capital on Thursday, the CEC underscored the critical role of smooth voting processes in upholding democracy.

Addressing the gathering, CEC Habibul Awal stressed the necessity of meticulous arrangements to facilitate seamless voting for citizens.

He cautioned that failure in conducting the elections with integrity could jeopardize the democratic progress achieved during the previous parliamentary elections, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating Bangladesh‍‍`s commitment to democracy through transparent and equitable electoral processes. Additionally, he urged vigilance in preventing any form of violence during the electoral period.

The meeting, attended by Election Commissioner, Secretary of Election Commission Secretariat, and other pertinent officials, saw the participation of Deputy Commissioners, Superintendents of Police, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Administration.

Notably, the upcoming Sixth Upazila Parishad election is scheduled to be held in four phases, with voting to commence on 8 May in 148 upazilas in the first phase, followed by subsequent phases on 21 May, 29 May, and 5 June, respectively. Polling will take place continuously from 8 am to 4 pm on the designated days.