Vote count will take time, but no scope for irregularities, says CEC

“Only results signed by the returning officers and officially received will be published," says AMM Nasir Uddin

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin has said the release of final election results may take time, particularly because of the referendum ballots and postal votes, but insisted there is no scope for “manipulation” or “irregularities”.

He described Thursday’s general election as one of the best, most acceptable, and most festive polls in the country’s history.

"As it promised the people, the Election Commission has been able to deliver an impartial, transparent, and credible election," Nasir said.

The CEC spoke at a formal briefing at the EC’s results centre at 10pm, he said: "Despite some limitations and shortcomings, the election was held at a high standard overall."

About 1.7 million officials and law enforcement personnel performed their duties in successfully conducting the massive voting process, including the referendum.

The CEC stated clearly: "No unofficial or unverified results will be accepted by the Election Commission. Only results signed by the returning officers and officially received will be published."

The EC does not believe in any secrecy and is committed to presenting the election process and results to the people of the country through the media in a completely transparent manner, he said.

"This election will be considered more acceptable and credible by any standard compared to the controversial elections of the past," he claimed.