Chief Election Commissioner Justice A K M Sadeque yesterday said that he would not hesitate to step down but would like to know the reason.
"1 would like to know the grounds on which they (some political parties) think I should step down, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) told the a group of newsmen at his office yesterday.
I have no guilty conscience whatsoever. I have performed my duty at a difficult time and I think it is time which has victimised me.' the CEC said without referring to the February 15 polls
But if my departure benefits the nation I will not hesitate to do so." Justice Sadeque said.
Awa mi League. J a tiya Party and some other political parties are demanding resignation of the CEC for holding of a fair parliamentary polls. *
As per constitutional provi sions the CEC is appointed on a five-year term by the president on the advice of the prime minister Non but the
Supreme Judicial Council can remove the CEC before the ex piry of the tenure.
Earlier on the day the CEC called on Chief Adviser of the caretaker government Mohammad Habibur Rahman at his office.
During the meeting which lasted for a brief period, the CEC was reported to have briefed the Chief Adviser on the current position of the Election Commission in view of the coming polls.
About his resignation, the CEC had earlier said that the President of the Chjef Adviser of the caretaker government would have to tell him fortnally so that he could decide.
Meanwhile, activities at the Election Commission has come to a near, standstill anjid confusion among the officials. It is not clear to many EC officials whether the CEC would relinquish bis office or continue. sources in the EC secretariat said.
Many officials also fear that the possible restructuring of the EC would cost them their posts. Some political parties including the AL and the JP have also demanded restructuring of the EC.
We know some major changes are going to take place but time -is running out fast. We cannot do anything until something is decided." a high official said.