No party symbols in upcoming local govt elections

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin announced on Monday that the upcoming local government elections will be held without political party symbols, though the exact dates are yet to be finalized. 

Speaking at an event in Dhaka, the CEC outlined the commission's efforts to ensure fair and peaceful polls while addressing recent criticisms regarding the electoral process.

Addressing a program of the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy at the Electoral Training Institute in Agargaon, Nasir Uddin stated that the electoral code of conduct and management rules are currently being amended to reflect the removal of party symbols. 

He expressed concern that even without official symbols, political parties are already aligning behind candidates, which could escalate tensions. 

The CEC urged political factions to engage in dialogue to ensure a violence-free environment, noting that past local elections, particularly in rural areas, have been marred by fierce rivalries and casualties.

The CEC emphasized that the Election Commission cannot conduct a successful election alone and requires cooperation from law enforcement, the administration, political parties, journalists, and voters. 

Reaffirming his commitment to transparency, he mentioned that he has maintained strict professional boundaries, requiring political leaders to meet him officially at his office rather than conducting business over the phone. 

He stressed that the commission's sole objective is to create a level playing field for a free, fair, and acceptable election without any hidden agenda.

Touching upon a recent administrative challenge, the CEC highlighted the issue of some female voters who protested against being photographed for their voter IDs, citing religious reasons and a preference to remain in burqas. 

Although the commission offered to have female staff take the photographs to maintain privacy, community leaders rejected the proposal. 

Nasir Uddin requested journalists to help raise public awareness on the matter, noting that such social and religious sensitivities often draw inquiries from international organizations.

Responding to allegations of election engineering during the 13th national parliamentary election raised by Jatiya Nagorik Party leader Nasiruddin Patwari, the CEC remained unfazed. 

He stated that the commission is accustomed to such criticism and respects Patwari's right to free speech, calling it the beauty of democracy. 

Regarding the national election, Nasir Uddin left the final judgment to the citizens, journalists, and the international community. 

He acknowledged that while the commission may not be flawless, it operated without bias and received full, unhindered cooperation from the interim government to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates.