Bangladesh’s Commitment to Democratic Continuity: CEC Affirms Elections On Schedule
President Md Sahabuddin said that to continue the development of Bangladesh, the country's democratic trend must be continued
Dhaka: In a resolute statement, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal declared that Bangladesh’s national elections will proceed as scheduled, emphasizing the obligation to uphold the democratic process at any cost. The announcement came following a meeting with President Mohammad Shahabuddin, who echoed the importance of sustaining the country’s democratic trend for continued development.
“We have an obligation to hold elections within the specified time. We will announce the schedule very soon,” stated CEC Kazi Habibul Awal during a press briefing after the meeting at Bangabhaban earlier today.
The CEC informed President Shahabuddin of the Election Commission’s comprehensive preparations for the upcoming 12th National elections. Dialogues with political parties have already taken place to ensure the elections are free and fair, and instructions have been issued to the executive department to facilitate a smooth electoral process.
President Shahabuddin expressed hope that the Election Commission would play a responsible role, emphasizing the need for courage and sincerity to ensure fairness in the next general election, adhering to constitutional rules and norms. Acknowledging the collective responsibility for a fair election, the president urged the active cooperation of the people, including the executive department and political parties.
Highlighting the significance of elections in the democratic process, President Shahabuddin underscored that fair and participatory elections strengthen democracy, aligning it with development. He stressed the continuation of Bangladesh’s democratic trend for sustained development and urged the Election Commission to fulfill its role responsibly.
Present at the meeting were election commissioners, secretaries, and officials of the president’s office.
However, amidst the political deadlock exacerbated by consecutive blockades called by opposition parties, the ruling Awami League and the opposition BNP remain entrenched in their positions. Expected to be held between January 6 and 9, the upcoming national elections face challenges amid claims of arrests and violence from both sides.
BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi reported alleged casualties and arrests, stating that the political stalemate persists. Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami claimed arrests and casualties among its activists, accusing the ruling Awami League of disregarding international concerns.
As the political landscape remains tense, the commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring a fair electoral process takes center stage in Bangladesh’s evolving narrative.
