Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin has said that Bangladesh’s constitution does not allow voting through Proportional Representation (PR) system. He also explained that the Election Commission cannot go beyond the constitution. The CEC confirmed that the election is being prepared for February before Ramadan, and strong measures will be taken to prevent irregularities. He also made it clear that the Awami League’s activities remain banned until a final court verdict is given.
No PR System Outside the Constitution
Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin said,
“Proportional Representation (PR) system is not in the constitution. Since it is not there, we cannot go beyond the constitution. If the law is changed, only then this system can be used.”
He added that political debates on this issue are not the Election Commission’s responsibility.
Awami League’s Situation
Talking about Awami League, the CEC mentioned,
“The activities of Awami League are banned. There has been no final verdict yet, and the judicial process is not complete. If a verdict comes, then the Commission will decide about the party.”
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Election Preparations Underway
The CEC confirmed that preparations are ongoing after receiving the letter from the Chief Adviser.
“We are working to hold the election in February, before Ramadan. The voter list has been updated, and necessary arrangements are being made. A draft of the electoral boundaries has been published. From Sunday to Thursday, hearings on the boundaries will be held.”
Strict Action Against Vote Rigging
The Election Commission warned against vote rigging and violence.
“Those who once captured polling centres and created irregularities will not succeed this time. If any canter is captured, the entire vote will be cancelled. Those who try to win using weapons will face bad news.”
The CEC also confirmed that the army will be included to maintain law and order, instead of relying only on striking forces.
Officials and Accountability
The CEC explained that around 5,700 officials under the Election Commission will be assigned duties.
“Those who were involved in irregularities in past elections will not be included.”
No Government Pressure
Finally, the CEC clarified,
“The current government has not put any pressure on the Election Commission regarding the election. If they do, I will resign and will not remain in the chair.”
Source: Jamuna TV
