Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud on Saturday said the upcoming national election will be held without any manipulation, adding that the overall situation is favourable for a free, fair and participatory vote.
He made the remarks while speaking at an exchange of views with local journalists in Rangpur in connection with the 13th Jatiya Sangsad Election and the referendum.
Masud said extensive preparations are underway to ensure a smooth election process. He noted that about 1.8 million officials and personnel have been deployed across the country, including returning and assistant returning officers, members of the police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), the army, and Ansar-VDP.
“All those involved are committed to delivering a credible election for the nation,” he said at the meeting held at the Rangpur Circuit House.
The discussion was attended by members of the district law and order cell, vigilance and observation team, election investigation and judicial committee, as well as executive magistrates overseeing six parliamentary constituencies in Rangpur.
Masud said the Election Commission is working independently and without pressure, but stressed that cooperation from all stakeholders is essential to ensure a peaceful and widely accepted election. He urged citizens and political parties to avoid activities that could disrupt the polling environment.
He said the country has seen noticeable changes in its political climate and voting culture, adding that leaders of the two major political parties have assured the commission of their cooperation to maintain a level playing field.
According to the commissioner, parties opposing certain EC decisions have already removed campaign posters and cancelled planned political tours to help reduce tension.
Referring to political rhetoric, Masud said exchanges between rival parties are part of election strategy, but warned that violence and killings will not be tolerated.
He added that law enforcement agencies have been instructed to conduct an impartial investigation into the recent killing of Sharif Osman Hadi.
The meeting was chaired by Rangpur District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Enamul Ahsan. Regional Election Officer Delwar Hossain, Superintendent of Police Marufat Hussaine, Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Toffael Hossain, and other senior officials were also present.