He gave the directive while inaugurating a training program on election management for Upazila Executive Officers (UNOs) at the Election Training Institute in Dhaka on Wednesday morning (October 22).
“The Election Commission will not bow to any pressure. The Commission will issue instructions only according to the law and will not give any illegal orders,” the CEC said. “We must take a firm stance against irregularities, including attempts to occupy polling centers. Officials must carry out their duties lawfully and remain neutral,” he added.
Emphasizing the importance of integrity, Nasir Uddin said, “We are facing difficulties because we do not respect the law. To overcome this, everyone involved in the electoral process must act responsibly and in full coordination.”
Election Commissioners Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah, Anwarul Islam Sarkar, and Begum Tahmida Ahmed were also present at the event.
Commissioner Anwarul Islam Sarkar assured that officials who perform their duties properly during the polls will be rewarded. “There are rumors about creating a caretaker government atmosphere. I want to make it clear on behalf of the Commission—there is nothing to fear. Continue your work properly. If you deviate, you will face serious consequences,” he cautioned.
Commissioner Begum Tahmida Ahmed urged the officials to “forget the training methods of previous elections” and focus on the new guidelines being provided this time.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Sanaullah called on UNOs to prepare early to ensure a fair electoral environment. “The government has also urged officials to use this opportunity effectively. After the detailed schedule is announced, the entire process will come under the Election Commission’s control. We must not wait for that. The groundwork for a free and fair election should begin now,” he said.
Sanaullah added that the administration’s proactive efforts will demonstrate that “an exemplary election can be organized through strong and coordinated field administration.”
