Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has called upon the people of Bangladesh to cast their votes for their preferred candidates and urged all participants to accept the results as a natural outcome of the democratic process.
Addressing the nation at 7pm on Wednesday, ahead of the 13th parliamentary election and referendum, the CEC greeted the citizens ahead of what he described as one of the most significant elections in the country’s history.
During his speech, the CEC paid deep respect to the martyrs of the Great Liberation War and those of the July Uprising, stating that their sacrifices have brought the nation to the threshold of a democratic transition.
He also offered prayers for the eternal peace of the departed souls and the quick recovery of the “July warriors” who were injured during the mass uprising.
Voting as a national duty
Nasir Uddin emphasised that participating in the election is not merely a civic right but a fundamental responsibility for every citizen.
He urged political parties, candidates, and voters to act with diligence and responsibility to maintain a peaceful and harmonious environment throughout the polling process.
Noting that differing opinions are a natural part of any democratic system, the CEC encouraged voters to arrive at polling stations in a festive spirit.
He reiterated that the essence of democracy lies in the ability of all parties to accept victory or defeat gracefully once the results are announced.
Collective effort for peaceful elections
The CEC requested the cooperation of all stakeholders, including voters, candidates, election officials, law enforcement agencies, journalists, observers, and service providers. He urged them to set aside personal hardships and work together to ensure the success of this grand national arrangement.
To prevent any untoward incidents, Nasir Uddin called for full support for the election officials, field-level judicial and executive magistrates, and security forces.
He expressed his firm expectation that through collective efforts, the nation would witness a fair, beautiful, and peaceful election. The CEC concluded his address by seeking the spontaneous participation of all citizens and invoking the blessings of the almighty.
