The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

The Election Commission (EC) is unlikely to hold the general elections and upazila election simultaneously.

Election Commissioner M Sohul Hussain dropped the hint yesterday while talking to reporters at his office.

"It seems that upazila election may not be held along with the national election. The Divisional Commissioners are not in favour of it. They viewed that it will create a huge problem," he said.

Asked about the doubts expressed by a section of political parties over holding the elections as per the roadmap, he pointed out that they have no apprehension about it.

"Our main task and target is national elections. We are doing all the reform works, completing the voter list and others just to hold the national election. So, that is to take place as per the roadmap," he said.

Replying to a question, the Election Commissioner said relaxing or withdrawal of the state of emergency entirely depends on the Government.

"We have been telling that those who are running the Government will decide the matter. We will ask the Government to prepare an appropriate field so that election can take place," he said. Sohul Hussain said there are barely three rules out of 27 or 28 in EPR that relate to election.

Replying to another question, he again dismissed the apprehension of a section of

politicians that upazila polls ahead would disrupt the process of the general elections.

Asked if they would ask the Government for relaxing or withdrawal of emergency he said the issues of creating congenial atmosphere for holding the polls would be taken up anytime before announcing the election schedule.

In fact, the issues are almost decided, he said adding, they would just sit with the Chief Adviser to make those feasible.