Election officials involved in the referendum scheduled for 12 February may encourage voters to participate but must not take sides, Election Commissioner Anwarul Islam Sarker said on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters at his office in the Election Building, Anwarul Islam said returning officers, assistant returning officers and other election officials have a legal obligation to remain neutral.
“They can motivate people to vote. But they cannot campaign for or against any side,” he said.
Replying to a question on the Election Commission’s stance, he said the commission was actively encouraging voter participation in the referendum.
However, officials on election duty could not legally work in favour of any position.
“They may carry out referendum awareness activities. But they must not support either side,” he added.
On the overall election environment, Anwarul Islam said the commission saw no cause for concern. He said political leaders were regularly visiting the commission and sharing their observations and suggestions. “We are taking immediate steps based on those inputs,” he said.
He added that issues raised in the media and on social media were promptly brought to the attention of returning officers and law enforcement agencies.
“Legal action is being taken swiftly,” he said, adding that 50 to 60 cases were being filed daily, alongside fines and show cause notices.
Asked about complaints from NCP and Jamaat alleging attacks by rival groups, including claims that female activists were being targeted, Anwarul Islam said the commission had listened to every complaint carefully.
“Necessary steps have already been taken,” he mentioned.
On allegations of a lack of a level playing field, he said political parties had submitted specific complaints.
“We are concerned about each of them,” he said. The commission has forwarded the issues to returning officers and electoral inquiry committees, who will act in accordance with the law.
The election commissioner said the commission believed people were participating in the election with full confidence.
“Political parties are taking part. Campaigning is continuing in a festive atmosphere. This reflects public trust,” he added.
