Election Commissioner Anwarul cautions officers over ‘data misuse, biased actions’

Warning comes amid growing criticism from the NCP over Election Commission’s neutrality

Election Commissioner Anwarul Islam Sarker has cautioned staff against leaking data or engaging in political bias, warning that every move is being watched.

The warning was issued on Friday during the inauguration of a training programme at the Electoral Training Institute in Dhaka.

The chief election commissioner, other commissioners, and the EC Secretary were present.

Anwarul told officers they would not be allowed to return home without conducting a proper election and reminded them that responsibility does not rest solely with the commissioners.

He warned that the Commission would not tolerate any form of “bias” and that those involved in politically motivated actions would face consequences.

Referring to the size of the country, he said no officer's actions go unnoticed -- including who they sit with, what they discuss, and what information they pass on.

Pointing to the combined experience of the five election commissioners, the former senior bureaucrat said they have successfully served in top positions across the secretariat, field administration, judiciary, armed forces, and ministries.

He dismissed any assumption that the commissioners are inexperienced or uninformed, stressing that they have strong networks and are well aware of what’s happening in the country.

Anwarul admitted the commission has previously faced “embarrassment” due to internal leaks and called for a renewed commitment to confidentiality.

“We are deeply embarrassed when we see internal work being exposed,” he said. “I urge you again -- from today, take an oath. To protect the dignity and integrity of this commission, confidentiality must be maintained.”

His remarks come at a time when the National Citizen Party (NCP) has publicly questioned the commission’s neutrality.

Leaders of the NCP have accused the Election Commission of operating as a “party office” and of pushing forward the agenda of a particular political party.