The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Dr ATM Shamsul Huda yesterday called upon the voters not to be influenced by others and cast their votes for their favourate candidates applying own intelligence and sagacity.

"I'm inviting all voters, regardless of political differences, to go to polling centres taking the opportunity of secured environment and cast their invaluable votes," he said while addressing the nation last night through Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar on the eve of the parliamentary election. Assuring the nation that the counting of the votes will be neutral, the CEC said all necessary preparations have been taken for a free and fair election today. You (voters) can go to the polling centers fearlessly and be part of the history through exercising their franchise, he said.

Terming the today's election as a historical one, Dr Huda said it is a great opportunity for people to be part of a truly democratic transition of the country.

"After a rough journey, we are now standing at a critical juncture of the nation. Only a firm confidence in democracy, can lead us to overcome all crises," he mentioned. He mentioned three key measures, security measures, photo voter roll and translucent ballot boxes, which would ensure a free, fair and credible vote.

The CEC said the voters for the first time have the opportunity in a transparent voting system. The roll of electorates with photographs and transparent ballot box are major progress to make the election free, fair and credible, he said.

He said the polling would start at 8:00am and continue till 4:00pm without any break. He, however, eligible voters who would stay in the queue or in the area of the polling center can cast their votes, as long the time is required.

Dr Huda warned all officials related to the election to play their impartial role and strictly follow the Representation of the People Order (RPO) in the whole process of voting ranging from casting of votes to counting and announcement of the result.

He said there is no scope to create any trouble or violence before or after the election as the government has undertaken to avert such incidents this time.