AL cannot contest elections unless ban is lifted: EC Masud

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud has stated that the Awami League will not be able to participate in the upcoming election unless the suspension of its registration is withdrawn.

"The government has banned the activities of the Awami League, and the Election Commission has suspended the party’s registration. Unless this suspension is lifted, the party cannot contest the election. There is no alternative," he said.

The commissioner made these remarks on Monday (May 19) around 11:00 AM during a day-long workshop titled “Voter List Update 2025: Subsequent Review and Sustainable Development Planning” held at the Rajshahi Regional Public Administration Center.

When asked whether a credible election could be held without the Awami League, Abdur Rahmanel Masud responded, "It’s premature to comment on that. The Election Commission is fully prepared to conduct the election within the timeline set by the Chief Adviser."

Senior Election Commission Secretary Akhtar Ahmed attended the event as a special guest, alongside high-ranking officials from regional and district administrations, as well as senior police officials.

A total of 70 election officers and data collectors from various districts and sub-districts of the Rajshahi Division took part in the workshop.