The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Dr ATM Shamsul Huda yesterday said that preparation for holding a free and fair election is now complete. The Election Commission (EC) has now nothing but to send ballot papers to the polling centres.

Talking to newsmen at EC office Dr Huda said the commission was considering the mobile network issue and have discussed it with various communities. He said he personally believes that mobile networks should be kept on during the Election Day to facilitate enhanced mobility. It helps communications among returning officers, assistant returning officers and other personnel's involved in the elections.

He, however, the disagree with contention of the detective branches and home ministry over the mobile phone network issue. Dr Huda said EC will takes decision immediately on the issue.

Replying to a question over violation of election rules by the Speaker of Parliament he said he is aware of it. "The Speaker had contacted with me several times. But he should not use government facilities during election campaign."

The CEC said EC took election preparation within a short span of time. Some issues made it more difficult, like eligibility of Mayors in the national elections and court rulings over candidature of defaulters and convicts.

In future these issues should be settled earlier, Dr Huda said.

Replying to another question Dr Huda said around 30 lakh ballot papers of 17 seats has to be re-printed.