Election possible despite challenging law and order situation: CEC to BBC Bangla

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin has said that although the law and order situation in the country remains challenging, it is still possible to hold the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election.

Speaking to BBC Bangla, the CEC admitted that the exact date for the national polls has not yet been finalized. "The government has not informed the Election Commission of any specific date. However, based on the Chief Adviser’s remarks, we anticipate the election could take place either in early February or the first half of April," he said.

Nasir Uddin noted that the EC initially began preparations with December in mind. "We’ve been preparing from the beginning, targeting December. That said, the actual timeline may shift."

The CEC revealed he had a courtesy meeting with Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, initiated on his own accord. Describing it as an "agenda-free" meeting, Nasir Uddin said that while no formal agenda was set, the Chief Adviser was briefed on election preparations and also inquired about the EC’s readiness.

"I requested time and he granted it. I explained in detail what we have done, what we are doing, and what remains."

Amid concerns from political parties about the deteriorating law and order situation, the CEC dismissed claims that elections would be impossible under current conditions.

“Though the situation is challenging, it has improved compared to last year. Political parties are also advocating for free and fair elections. If the people support us, mobs or violence will not be a barrier,” he said.

Law enforcement agencies and relevant government bodies are also preparing accordingly, he added.

Referring to the recent government action against the Awami League, the CEC confirmed that the party's registration with the EC has been suspended following the suspension of its political activities.

“If the court clears them of wrongdoing, the situation will be reconsidered. But as of now, they are not eligible to participate in the election,” he stated.

Reaffirming his commitment to neutrality, the CEC said, "I took an oath on the Supreme Court balcony. Our job is to ensure equal opportunity for all. I consider myself as responsible as a judge."

He acknowledged that parties such as BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami have raised allegations against the EC, calling them politically motivated. “In time, they will see that the EC is functioning impartially,” he said.

On the reinstatement of Jamaat-e-Islami’s previously canceled registration and its traditional symbol 'scales', the CEC said this was an automatic result of a court ruling becoming status quo.

Addressing the dispute over the use of the national flower “Shapla” (water lily) as a party symbol—claimed by parties like the NCP and Nagorik Oikya—the CEC confirmed that the symbol would be removed entirely due to its national significance and associated legal complications.

He also disclosed that around 150 parties have applied for registration. “Many lack even a basic organizational presence. The verification process is underway, and only those fulfilling all legal requirements will be granted registration,” he said. Parties may be given 15 days to submit additional documents, if needed.

The CEC clarified that there are no immediate plans to conduct local government elections, citing the potential for violence and the extensive time required. “Our full focus is now on the national election,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Nasir Uddin reflected on the weight of his role. “I’ve taken this responsibility as a challenge at the final stage of my life. I want to gift the nation a credible and acceptable election during this crisis. Just as I took up this duty with a smile, I want to leave it with the same smile.”