Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad on Saturday urged candidates in the Gazipur City Corporation (GCC) election to accept the poll results, showing respect to the people’s mandate.
While talking to journalists at the Election Commission secretariat in the capital shortly after end of voting in GCC, Rakibuddin thanked all concerned for performing their duties properly, helping to conduct a free, fair and peaceful election.
The CEC said they had taken into consideration all allegations placed before the commission by candidates and political parties during the voting period and acted accordingly.
Rakibuddin said the commission had ensured a peaceful atmosphere, encouraging voters to exercise their democratic rights through ballots without fear or pressure.
He also praised the media for its contribution in organising an acceptable election.
“The election commission believes in transparency, and there was no chance of rigging the polls due to the vibrant presence of media workers,” Rakibuddin commented.
He added that no victory procession would be allowed after the announcement of poll results.
The CEC once again urged all candidates – mayoral and councillor – to accept the people’s verdict, and to establish the culture of upholding free and fair polls in the country.
Rakibuddin further asked all concerned to fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies in order to avert post-poll violence. The CEC said law enforcers had been asked to remain alert to any untoward incident in the newly formed city corporation areas.