Staff Reporter:
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Thursday described the just-concluded national parliamentary election as “credible, neutral and largely successful,” expressing gratitude to voters, political parties, law enforcement agencies, and media personnel for their cooperation.
Speaking at a post-election briefing attended by fellow commissioners, the senior secretary, political leaders, prominent lawyers of the Supreme Court, and journalists, Nasir Uddin said the nation had been gifted a long-awaited, festive, and peaceful election.
“We are grateful to the Almighty that our efforts and sacrifices have borne fruit. By any standard in our electoral history, this can be considered a good election,” he said.
He acknowledged that no election is perfect, especially in a country of 180 million people and around 127 million voters.
The commission had to print and distribute approximately 254 million ballot papers, including those for the referendum, he noted.
The CEC said that nearly 1.75 million personnel, including members of law enforcement agencies and polling officials, were engaged in conducting the polls. “In many countries, the total population is not even that large. Coordinating such a massive workforce was a significant challenge, but we managed it with everyone’s cooperation.”
Thanking journalists, political parties, voters and security agencies, Nasir Uddin emphasised that the Election Commission had worked transparently throughout the process. “We do not believe in secrecy. Our journalists are our third eye. Through your cameras, we want the entire nation to see everything.”
Addressing concerns over fluctuating voter turnout percentages reported at different times of the day, the CEC explained that results were being compiled progressively as data arrived from polling centers. “As more centres report, the figures will naturally change. This is purely a matter of addition and calculation, there is no manipulation or hidden motive.”
He also cautioned media outlets against broadcasting unofficial results based on private sources. “These are not official results. Only the signed results sent by returning officers will be announced by us.”
The CEC clarified that even the announced results would remain provisional until they were published in the official gazette. “Once gazetted, that will be the final official document.”
Inviting journalists to remain present throughout the counting process, Nasir Uddin reiterated the commission’s commitment to openness.
“Stay with us throughout the night. Observe whether there is any irregularity or ill intent. We are committed to delivering a fully transparent election,” he added.
