CEC

Photo: Collected CEC Kazi Habibul Awal

Showing strength on streets will not lead to democratic elections: CEC

He made this comment to the reporters at the Agargaon election building on Thursday (November 24).

CEC said, "If our statements reach them (political parties) through the media, they have political wisdom and will think a little. I do not believe that a fair election will be made by showing strength on the streets. Now all the parties want to say, we will meet on the streets, and there will be a test of strength on the streets. As CEC, I will say that a truly democratic election will not be done by showing strength on the streets. You have to come to the polls. Elections must be contested according to the rules."

CEC said, "What I will emphasize is that democratic elections are not possible without effective competition in elections. Because I will not create a balance with the police. Each centre will create a balance through the rivalry of the parties. If they do not create a balance, it will not be possible to conduct the elections in a fair and credible manner with the police, military, and all the time."

He said, three senior leaders said a few days ago, I will not name names, of major parties, they said dialogue between political parties is essential. In order to make the elections fair, if there is no consensus among the political parties, a fair election cannot be held. Of course, the parties will need support, a compromise will be needed and an environment should be created to hold fair elections and the election will be acceptable only if the procedure is transparent.

Regarding the ministry's non-response regarding the reform of the law, he said, "It is not yet right. But I am not saying that it will not come. We wait a little. We have sent it, I believe the government will examine it. By doing what is logical, we think we have sent the logical thing, I don't think the government will ignore it. We see some more days. Then I will talk about the matter with the government."