Final election results to be announced by Feb 13: EC Anawarul

The final results of the 13th National Parliament election and national referendum can likely be announced by the afternoon of Friday, February 13, the day after voting, according to Election Commissioner Md Anawarul Islam Sarkar.

He shared this information while speaking with journalists at the Election Building in the capital. EC Anawarul Islam stated that although the parliamentary election and referendum are being held on the same day, the use of modern automation systems and multiple digital devices will make it possible to collect information and prepare results in the shortest possible time.

He informed that there might be a slight delay in receiving results from some remote areas due to transportation issues. However, under no circumstances will there be a need to wait for up to three days. He also claimed that the electoral environment this time is much more peaceful and orderly compared to any past election.

Noting that the apprehension in the public mind regarding the election has largely dissipated, Anawarul Islam Sarkar said the Election Commission is fully prepared to deliver an acceptable, free, and transparent election this Thursday, February 12.

He stated that to keep the law and order situation under control, approximately 11 to 12 lakh members from all forces combined are being deployed for this election. These forces will perform their duties under the leadership of the Returning Officers and the direct supervision of the Election Commission.

He further said that multiple monitoring teams will work in each constituency to ensure election security. Instructions have been given to send information to the central cell every two hours regarding the situation at the centres.

Regarding technological surveillance, the Election Commissioner said CCTV cameras have been installed at polling centres with electricity connections. Additionally, security personnel have been instructed to use body-worn cameras to ensure transparency at every moment.

He also said a special fact-finding cell under the commission will work round the clock to prevent rumours and propaganda on social media. He reminded voters once again that mobile phones cannot be taken inside the polling centre under any circumstances.

EC Anawarul Islam Sarkar said the aspirations of August 5 will be realised through the cooperation of political parties and the spontaneous participation of the people. Due to the massive presence of law enforcement agencies and increased use of technology, there is almost no opportunity for vote rigging or disorder this time.

Assuring the nation, he said the people of the country will be able to exercise their voting rights in a peaceful environment on February 12, and the final results will be presented to the nation in the shortest possible time after voting concludes.