Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has stated that discussions were held with US Chargé d’Affaires Tracy Ann Jacobson regarding preparations for organising elections, the law-and-order situation during elections, rumors, and mob culture. He made these remarks to journalists after a meeting with the acting US Ambassador (Chargé d’Affaires) in Dhaka at the Election Building in Agargaon, the capital, on Monday afternoon.
Regarding the Chargé d’Affaires’ question about “mobs” during the meeting, the CEC said, “She asked what would happen if a mob targeted a party during election time. I replied that the election is still some time away. When elections are held simultaneously across 300 constituencies in one day, the mob will be dispersed across 300 locations. Those who try to create mobs will see that people have returned to their respective constituencies. It will not be possible to gather so many people in one place at the same time; Dhaka city will be empty. Those who intend to create mobs will not be able to gain any advantage.”
Expressing confidence that the law-and-order situation during elections will remain under the Election Commission’s control, the CEC said, “Since the responsibility of conducting elections lies with us, the law-and-order situation is extremely important to us. For this reason, we provide support to the police administration, the army, and all other relevant agencies from our end, and we maintain close communication with them. They are also very cooperative at all times. Everyone wants the election to be held in a participatory and peaceful environment.”
He added, “She also asked whether those conducting the elections would be biased. 95% of the polling officials are government employees, and 5% are from the Election Commission. I informed her that the head of the government has cooperated to ensure the EC can work independently. We have received cooperation without any interference from the government.”
The CEC mentioned that the issue of black money was discussed during the meeting with the US Embassy, stating, “We cannot completely stop it, but we are trying. I also informed her that we have engaged with the Consensus Commission. I am optimistic and will fight with all my strength till the end. I will strive to hold a fair election with the support of the people.”
Expressing hope that a consensus would emerge among political parties before the elections, the CEC said, “My belief is that political parties will prioritise the country’s interests above all else. Parties work in the country’s interests, think about the country, and ultimately, they will reach common ground. I told her that our political parties will eventually come to an understanding.”
