CEC assures diplomats of fair polls amid boycott concerns

The Chief Election Commissioner of Bangladesh Kazi Habibul Awal has assured foreign diplomats of the commission's commitment to holding free and fair elections, while expressing concerns about potential pressure from those boycotting the polls. 

Addressing reporters after a meeting with foreign diplomats at Hotel Sonargaon in the capital today, Kazi Habibul Awal said that the diplomats inquired about whether voters were facing any pressure. 

He said, "We clarified that there is no rationale for us to exert any form of pressure from our end. We are encouraging people to go to the polling stations and cast their votes without any fear. It's not about pressure; it's about creating awareness."

However, the CEC acknowledged the potential for pressure from the boycotting political parties. "If the boycott remains, and voters are told not to go, then there may be pressure later. We have explained this to them (foreign diplomats)," he added.

The foreign envoys also sought information on complaints received by the Election Commission regarding the polls. The CEC informed them that around 600 complaints had been received, and approximately 400 of them had been addressed. The diplomats underscored the importance of holding the upcoming general election in a free and fair manner.

After the meeting, EU Ambassador Charles Whiteley, while acknowledging the EC's preparations for the elections, refrained from commenting on their satisfaction with the arrangements. Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen expressed hope for a successful election, calling it a significant milestone for Bangladesh's democratic process.

In a written speech delivered during the meeting, the CEC addressed the boycott by certain opposition political parties, emphasising that the EC does not have the authority to intervene in this matter. He said, "That lies in the collective wish, wisdom, and decision of the overall political leadership."

The CEC regretted the absence of certain parties from the election, noting, "Had they contested, the election might have been more inclusive and peaceful." He also pledged to thwart any attempts at unfair practices and assured that measures were in place to prevent rigging, malpractices, and the use of muscle power inside polling stations.

Highlighting transparency in the electoral process, the CEC informed the diplomats that media workers and observers would have the liberty to observe and assess the polling process. 

A media centre has been inaugurated at Hotel Sonargoan to assist local and foreign media workers in covering the 12th national election on 7 January.

The CEC also introduced a Smart Election Management App, allowing access to information from each polling station during the polling period. 

He called upon the envoys to objectively assess the election outcomes and expressed confidence that the election and results would be credible to all. The CEC concluded, "We will make all-out efforts to make the upcoming election free, fair, peaceful, and participatory."