Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Thursday said the Election Commission is currently carrying out election-related preparations that are both necessary and within its jurisdiction.
"We're working on those things that we think are within our authority and necessary or possible before the election," he said, responding to a question on whether the commission would wait for the National Consensus Commission’s decisions regarding electoral reform recommendations.
The CEC made the remarks while speaking to reporters after a meeting with Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Susan Ryle at his office in Dhaka, reports UNB.
Nasir Uddin noted that the consensus commission would address political issues and matters involving politics. "They would know the decisions of the consensus commission later, but now the Election Commission is working on the issues that are emergency and possible right now," he added.
Regarding the meeting, the CEC said the Australian High Commissioner assured him of all necessary support ahead of the next general election.
"They said that they are ready to support us and the Election Commission as per our request... She assured us all possible necessary supports to the Election Commission," he said.
Nasir Uddin also mentioned that the envoy inquired about the Election Commission’s preparations for the upcoming parliamentary election and overall reform activities. "I informed her details," he added.
The Australian high commissioner reaffirmed her country’s support for the Election Commission’s efforts to ensure free and fair elections.
"Bangladesh is going through as a way towards open, free and fair elections stadia...We continue to work with you as specific hand to support your efforts," she said.
Susan Ryle described her discussion with the CEC as a “very productive meeting.”
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
