Election Commissioner Rashida Sultana announced preparations for the upcoming 12th National Parliamentary elections have begun.
She said this while talking to reporters at the Election Bhaban on Sunday.
EC Rashida Sultana said: "We have started a four-pronged preparation process. All necessary tasks for conducting the election are in progress. We have come a long way, and our efforts are ongoing. We are focused on creating guidelines for polling officials and will meet on Monday to discuss."
She expressed optimism that BNP will also participate in the electoral process and said: "We still have hope that BNP will participate in the elections. I have been saying for a year and a half that they will join. The nature of politics makes it uncertain until just before the election. BNP’s actions, reasons, and thoughts are their own. Yet, we are hopeful that they will join the process as the commission anticipates."
She also said: "Trainers need to undergo training before they can start their training sessions. To facilitate this, a draft listing of polling stations has been prepared. We are currently deciding on polling station assignments and selecting polling officers. Many people will undergo extensive training for roles like centre-based presiding, assistant presiding, and polling officers.”
She further added: "Considering the efficiency and professionalism of the polling officers, they have to work according to the policy. Everyone will work without bias as before."
"The training is planned to start from September-October this year. After the election schedule's announcement, the polling officers' training will commence following the allotment of symbols," she added.
In response to a question about foreign observers, Rashida Sultana said: "The details will be provided when these matters are deliberated upon in the commission meeting. We will not be engaging in direct hiring. Observers will come through Home Ministry and Foreign Ministry. They have to work according to the policy."
