Not getting into political parties' debate on holding national or local polls first: CEC

The question whether local government polls or the national election would be held first is a debate between political parties and the Election Commission does not want to go into the debate, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin said today (23 February), in response to questions from reporters.

"We don't want to go into this debate between political parties. For now, the Election Commission's first goal is to prepare an accurate voter list. There are 16 lakh dead voters. They need to be excluded," the CEC said after holding a views-exchange meeting with district administration officials in Cox's Bazar this afternoon.

"The interim government has given two deadlines, by December or by June if there is a major reform. The final voter list for the next national election will be available by June," the CEC said.

Nasir stated that the Election Commission wants to hold elections like those held in 1991, 1996 and 2001. "In this regard, everyone's involvement and cooperation are needed," he added.

"Those who are in the current administration have held the elections of 1991, 1996 and 2001," the CEC said, adding that the Election Commission will not give any unfair pressure or make any unfair decisions.

He instructed those who will be in charge of election duties to work according to the law and promised to be beside them.