Complete Election Preparations by Oct for Dec Polls: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin. File Photo

“We must finalize the election schedule by October and complete all necessary preparations, including reforms to the legal framework and regulations,” the CEC said. He emphasized key tasks such as the registration of new political parties and the delimitation of electoral boundaries.

Nasir Uddin made the remarks at an event organized by the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED) at the Nirbachon Bhaban in Agargaon this morning. RFED President Ekramul Huq Sayem presided over the function, with General Secretary M Humayun Kabir moderating.

The CEC expressed optimism that the elections would be held in a festive atmosphere, as the chief adviser has confirmed that the 13th national parliamentary elections will take place within the next one and a half years. He noted that preparations are underway, taking into account the rainy season in June.

He also mentioned that the voter list update has already begun and necessary electoral law reforms are in progress.

Addressing concerns over proposed reforms from the Electoral Reform Commission, Nasir Uddin expressed opposition to any changes that would reduce the Election Commission's (EC) powers. Specifically, he rejected proposals to place EC activities under the oversight of a parliamentary standing committee, warning that such changes would limit the EC’s independence.

“We do not want to become dependent on the parliamentary standing committee. Any proposal that diminishes the EC’s powers should be canceled,” he asserted, emphasizing the EC's sole authority over voter list updates and electoral boundary delimitation.

The CEC also commented on proposals to reform the electoral system, stating that while many suggestions exist, some are difficult to implement. He disagreed with the recommendation to strip the EC of its authority over electoral boundary delimitation, affirming that it remains under the EC’s jurisdiction.

Nasir Uddin acknowledged the logistical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which has enabled early progress on voter list updates. However, he reiterated the need for legal amendments to facilitate election-related activities, citing restrictions on political party registration and boundary delimitation.