A platform of eminent citizens called ‘Nagorikder Pokkhe Aamra’ has urged the Election Commission to ensure a secure environment for the polls on Sunday so that people can practice their voting rights in peace.
They also urged people to cast their votes disregarding any kind of fear or threats, keeping in mind that it is their most important civil right, in a statement released on Thursday.
Saying that the people are already in panic due to the rising incidents of election related violence, they noted the government’s activities centering the election did not uphold its claims of ensuring an inclusive election.
They said the Election Commission and government are not willing to fulfill their previously made 5-point demand to hold inclusive polls. Rather, law enforcement agencies, the Election Commission, and the Administration’s role prove they are organizing a partisan election.
However, they still remain hopeful that the government and the Election Commission will take all necessary measures to hold a free, fair, participatory, and inclusive election.
Earlier on December 22, the platform representing 35 distinguished individuals, made five recommendations to ensure an inclusive election which included ensuring an impartial role on the part of the Election Commission.
They also said space should be created for local and foreign observers and journalists so there may be transparency.
The platform consists of 32 people, including Dhaka University Professor Geeti Ara Nasrin, Barrister Sara Hossain, photographer Shahidul Alam, Anu Muhammad, Zakir Hossain, and women’s rights activist Shirin Haque.
