STAFF CORRESPONDENT

At least 144 violations of the electoral code of conduct were recorded across 128 constituencies nationwide between January 6 and January 24 ahead of the upcoming February 12 election, the Election Commission said yesterday.

So far, 94 cases have been filed, leading to fines amounting to a total of around Tk 9.055 lakh.

Meanwhile, the EC said results of the national election and referendum may be announced late that night or the following day.

Sharing the updates with reporters at the EC headquarters in the capital’s Agargaon, Election Commissioner Anwarul Islam Sarkar said, “Compared to past elections, I would not say that the code of conduct has been enforced 100 percent this time. But if you go out on the streets, fields, or marketplaces, you will understand why things look so clean and orderly…. Candidates and parties made commitments along with their nomination papers, and what we are seeing is a reflection of those.”

He further said that returning officers and officials deployed in the field are carrying out awareness and motivational activities.

“This country has seen many elections…. We believe the environment this time has been the best so far.”

Asked how long it may take to get the results, he said, “At most, it may take until the very late hours of the night or the following day…. A referendum has been added alongside the election. Taking into account the highest level of caution and manpower requirements, we are making efforts to ensure the results are published within the desired timeframe.”

About the demands submitted to the EC to ban the Jatiya Party while the party is contesting the election, Anwarul said, “We have not received any such order to ban any party. Therefore, all registered parties and those who have received nominations will contest the election.”

He added that the commission has already taken necessary measures to address the allegations of attacks made by Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party.

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