Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah has said there is no cause for concern over the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election.
He made the remarks while speaking to journalists on Tuesday afternoon.
The comments came after an exchange meeting with Chattogram district law enforcement agencies at the Chattogram Circuit House over the election and referendum.
Sanaullah said that if any specific allegations of bias arise, the Electoral Inquiry Committee is in place to investigate them, adding that legal action will be taken if allegations are proven.
Referring to the recent killing in Raozan, he said every incident carries different “undertones” and that in many cases economic or commercial issues emerge first before political factors. Without going into details for the sake of the investigation, he said the incident might involve causes beyond politics and expressed hope that those responsible would be brought under the law swiftly.
Urging political parties and candidates to strictly follow the election code of conduct, the election commissioner said internal conflicts ahead of the polls remain comparatively low. He expressed hope that harmony would increase as the election approaches, leading to voting in a festive atmosphere.
On the role of the media, he stressed the need to present accurate information at the right time, saying proper reporting would help ensure transparency in the election. He also warned against misinformation and rumours, noting that spreading or sharing false information is a punishable offence and calling on people not to be misled.
Regarding candidates’ security, including the provision of gunmen, Sanaullah said clear instructions have been issued by Ministry of Home Affairs and local administration will take necessary steps if applications are made through proper channels.
Speaking on law and order, he said the ‘Devil Hunt Phase-2’ operation began on 13 December. More than 200 weapons have already been recovered. He added that the operation would be intensified further, with joint force operations set to expand from 15 January to accelerate both arms recovery and the arrest of criminals.
Sanaullah said voters are already focused on polling centres and that such developments are being reflected in the media, adding that Bangladesh would not see a repeat of past negative precedents.
On the issue of multiple candidates from the same party contesting the same seat, he said the law clearly addresses the matter, calling it a normal process and noting that the candidate finally endorsed by the party would remain in the race.
