DHAKA: Election Commission (EC) Secretary Helal Uddin Ahmed on Tuesday (Nov 20) warned the observatory bodies of 11th national polls to properly follow the electoral codes.

“The observers must not do such activities that don’t exist in the electoral code of conduct. An observer couldn’t offer any secret information while serving polling duties,” he said.

“Moreover, (observers) couldn’t give anyone instructions; even, not to the presiding officers and polling officers,” he added. 

Helal Uddin Ahmed came up with the warnings while addressing a views-exchanging meeting with the election observatory bodies, at EC Bhaban on Tuesday (Nov 20) morning.

“Action will be taken if any observer is found neglecting duties. If the observers witness any irregularities at the polling stations, they could inform it to the EC. But, it couldn’t be discussed with the reporters on the spot. If there had anything to speak about, it has to be submitted in a written format and to be addressed in press briefing” 

“Observers from the media couldn’t make any remarks. Besides, any observer couldn’t join any live broadcast. Moreover, the observers shouldn’t do any such behavior that proves him doing partiality,” he added.  

The EC secretary further warned even registration will be scrapped if any observatory body breaches the codes. 

EC Additional Secretary Md Mokhlesur Rahman, Joint Secretaries Khandaker Mizanur Rahman and ASM Asaduzzaman, among others, were present at the views-exchanging meeting. 

However, Bangladesh has 118 registered polling observers at present.

BDST: 1324 HRS, NOV 20, 2018
SI