CEC asks political parties again
The chief election commissioner has once again urged all political parties to reach a consensus over polls-time government for the sake of the country’s progress, peace and democracy.
Giving an outline of the roadmap to the 10th parliamentary election in a televised address yesterday, Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad said the commission would deploy army alongside police, Rab and BGB to ensure that the January 5 polls are held peacefully.
The CEC said the commission would be very strict in enforcing the electoral code of conduct, and warned of stern action against violators of the code.
“I hope all political parties will come forward to fulfil people’s expectations. And people will be able to see the reflection of their verdict in a free, peaceful and neutral election with the participation of all through a political consensus,” he said.
“I requested all political parties time and again to come to a consensus by giving priority to people’s aspirations.”
The commission waited for reconciliation between the political parties over polls-time government, but it couldn’t wait any further for the constitutional stipulation to hold the election by January 24 next year, said Rakibuddin.
He said the EC decided to deploy army along with VDP, ansar, police, Rab, BGB and coastguard across the country to assist the commission in holding a fair and credible national election as in the past.
“We are to hold polls in 300 constituencies across the country on a single day. The number of voters is also huge. It is really tough to hold such a big event maintaining law and order.”
“I hope we will be able to present a peaceful, fair and neutral election to the nation with everyone’s help.”
He asked the voters to choose on their own their representatives for the next parliament. “It is not just your constitutional right; it is your duty and responsibility.”
On the enforcement of the electoral code of conduct, the CEC said, “I want to say categorically that no leniency will be shown in terms of applying the electoral code of conduct.”
“It will not matter who holds what post. Stern action will be taken against the violator.”
Source: The Daily Star
