AL can contest elections if no legal barriers: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin said on Monday that the Awami League can participate in the upcoming elections if there are no legal barriers. He clarified that the Election Commission has no role in determining whether the party can or cannot participate. "Unless there is an injunction from the court or the government, there is no barrier for the party to participate," he said.

Speaking to reporters before a meeting at the Chattogram Circuit House on Monday (December 30), he added, "The Awami League has been a registered party since 1972." He also emphasised that the Election Commission is now completely independent.

The CEC further stated, "There is no pressure on the Election Commission. Unlike previous elections, external forces will not be able to exert pressure on the Commission."

He assured that the Commission would take all necessary measures to ensure a free and fair election. "We are under the pressure of conscience. Good elections are possible in this country, and bad elections are also possible," he said. "The voter list will be updated in the next six months. This time, the elections will not be like before. After August 5, national unity regarding the elections has been formed. Elections similar to those of 1991 and 1996 will be held."

Regarding the current voter list, the CEC said, "We have found fake voters in the list. Many people have died, but their names have not been removed. The relatives of the deceased do not come forward to remove their names from the list. This was exploited in past elections."

When asked if there were plans to hold the previous Election Commission accountable, the CEC replied, "This is an issue for the Election Reform Commission. We have not yet received their recommendations. However, there are no such considerations or decisions from our Commission."

The meeting with election officials was organized to discuss the updating of the voter list and preparations for the 13th National Parliament election. This was the CEC's first visit to Chattogram since assuming office.