Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin mentioned today that objections typically arise post-elections when the process goes smoothly. He stated that objections are common during elections, but historical trends indicate that complaints tend to emerge after successful voting, considering it a cultural norm.
These comments were made by the CEC during an event held at the Election Commission auditorium in Dhaka this afternoon. The program, organized jointly by the Election Commission of Bangladesh and the United Nations Development Programme, commemorated International Women’s Day under the theme “Ensuring equality, building the future together.”
Reflecting on previous elections, Nasir Uddin cited instances in 1991 and 1996 where allegations of manipulation and irregularities surfaced only after the voting concluded. He emphasized that objections are less persistent when elections are conducted effectively.
Expressing gratitude to the UNDP and the media, the CEC acknowledged the collaborative effort that ensured a fair election, fulfilling the commitment made to the nation. He also commended everyone for their contributions to achieving a fair electoral process.
During the event, the CEC shared his satisfaction in fulfilling his pledge to the nation and praised the support received from all involved parties. He highlighted the visible indelible ink on his hand as a testament to ensuring voters’ rights, mentioning that no instances of voters being denied the opportunity to cast their ballots were reported.
Nasir Uddin affirmed that women faced no obstacles in voting, based on his interactions with them at polling stations. He also mentioned that members of minority communities, including women, experienced no obstructions or difficulties while voting, as reported by those he spoke with during his visits to polling centers.
The CEC expressed a need to compile data on the number of women serving as presiding or polling officers in the 13th parliamentary election, noting that post-election complaints about presiding officers primarily involved men, with no mention of any female officers facing similar issues.
