EC not responsible for voters’ presence in polls

Election Commissioner Md. Anisur Rahman said it is the job of the candidates, not the election commission, to ensure the participation of voters in the election.

"Neither the electoral commission's officials nor the EC are in charge of ensuring voter turnout,” he said.

He, however, suggested that candidates should launch a vigorous campaign in this regard.

He asserted that voters are not particularly interested in the recent by-elections because the 12th general election will take place shortly.

He mentioned that some 11.51 percent of those who were eligible to vote participated in the Dhaka-17 by-elections.

He made the remarks to media on Sunday evening at Chattogram Circuit House following a meeting with law enforcement agencies and other relevant authorities over the upcoming by-election for the Chattogram-10 constituency.

On July 30, a by-election will be held.

He told the audience that preparations for the Chattogram-10 by-poll are almost complete and the installation of CCTV is ongoing. 

Anis also emphasized his desire for holding a peaceful, impartial, and free election.

The conference was attended by Hasanuzzaman, the regional election officer for Chattogram, and other election officials.

/MHK/