EU wants / participative selection: //////////

The 'Independent and Faithful' Election Commission wants to see the European Union (EU) wanting to see the upcoming national elections. The visiting European Parliamentary delegation yesterday said this in a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) KM Nurul Huda on Wednesday afternoon. During the 45-minute meeting held in the election building, discussions about the current political situation and the electoral system are discussed. The eight-member delegation led by Jean Lambert, member of the EU Parliamentary Committee on South Asia In addition to the CEC, Acting Secretary Helaluddin Ahmed and Joint Secretary SM Asaduzzaman were present at the meeting. After the meeting, Jean Lambert told reporters that EU wants to see a participatory election in Bangladesh.

Therefore, the Election Commission will have to work independently. He said that the importance of holding elections under the independent and trusty Election Commission was discussed. It is very important for the next election as the maximum number of voters can choose their representatives. To this end, it has been discussed that all political parties can prepare for the elections. Jean Lambert did not disclose anything about the question whether the EU is aware of the current political situation and whether it is possible to conduct credible elections in this situation. Referring to the court matter, he said that the matter will be settled by the court. After the election commission, it was the decision of the Election Commission. However, the decision to participate in the election of any political party alone is the team. Election Commission's acting secretary Helaluddin Ahmed briefed reporters after the meeting. The secretary said there was no discussion on specific issues. There is no discussion on the current political situation. The election process was discussed. Helaluddin Ahmad said they are not in any specific focus. They have asked some questions. No advice is given. The EU said that they expect the Election Commission to act according to the constitution - that is what they expected. Asked whether the EU has given any recommendation or suggestion to bring the Election Commission "independent and credible", the EC's acting secretary said, "We do not know whether such a proposal has been made." We said that according to the constitution and law the Election Commission will conduct the next parliamentary elections. Regarding the discussion of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia's election, she said, one asked the leader of the BNP leader about the issue. The CEC said it is subject to the court. The Election Commission does not have anything to do with the permission of the court. There is no role played by the Election Commission if there is no permission. Members of the EU delegation asked about the constitution of Bangladesh and the presidential elections and parliamentary elections. CEC said the current president was re-elected as the single candidate. The presidential election is held by the MPs.

Meanwhile, the European Union Parliamentary delegation visiting a press conference yesterday evening expressed hope that 'conflict and hostage' will be reduced in the days ahead of Bangladesh elections. Besides, the delegation has urged the government to make the next parliamentary elections free, fair and participatory.