CEC worried as political parties begin naming local poll candidates

He reminds the political parties that the elections are legally mandated to be non-partisan

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has expressed concern over political parties unofficially announcing candidates ahead of the scheduled local government polls, reminding them that the elections are legally mandated to be non-partisan.

Speaking at an event on Monday, the CEC urged political parties to reach a consensus to avoid a breakdown of order, noting that local body elections will not feature party symbols.

“I see in the media that different parties are already announcing nominations. This is a matter of concern for me; it has added wrinkles to my forehead,” Nasir Uddin said.

Highlighting the risks of partisan influence in a non-party election framework, he added: "If they became truly independent, without party ownership or backing, there wouldn’t be inter-party clashes. That is why I believe it would be wise for the political parties to sit down and resolve this themselves. Our support will be there."

The CEC made the remarks at the Electoral Training Institute in Agargaon during the ceremony welcoming the newly elected committee of the Reporters' Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED).

Nasir emphasised that establishing a healthy electoral culture requires ensuring that all elections -- not just the national polls -- are held fairly.

He stressed that political cooperation is vital to ensuring “violence-free” local government elections, given the historically volatile nature of these grassroots contests.

"We want cooperation from the parties. If necessary, please sit among yourselves and come to an understanding. We do not want to see any bloodshed," Nasir said.

While government advisors have previously hinted at holding local body elections by the end of this year, the CEC clarified that the exact timeline has not yet been finalised.

"Since the elections will not be held under party symbols, we need to reform certain rules and regulations," he explained, adding that while the government wishes to begin the process this year, proper preparation requires time.