No unlawful instructions in polls: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has said no unlawful instructions will be issued during the upcoming 13th national parliamentary elections. He also directed election officials not to work in favour of any party.

He made the remarks as chief guest at a conference organised by the Bangladesh Election Commission Officers’ Association at the Election Building on Saturday, September 27.

“I work with a sense of duty, as head of a family,” Nasir Uddin said. “In a country like Bangladesh, the work is very challenging — with many visible and invisible obstacles. But I am an optimistic person. I always see a glass half full, not half empty.”

The CEC said: “The Chief Adviser has repeatedly stressed holding a historic election because he trusts us. We will work according to the law, not under bias or prejudice. We will not give any unlawful orders, nor direct anyone to act in favour of a particular side. We will only give instructions to do the right thing, in the right way.”

At the event, he asked officials to raise their hands and swear before Allah to remain neutral. The officials took the oath accordingly.

“You must not work for anyone’s interest or any party’s interest,” he said. “This election is being held in a special context and requires special arrangements. The integrity of our oath depends on your role.”

Election Commission Secretary, commissioners and officials were also present.