The Election Commission remains unconcerned about the diplomatic efforts of the US ambassador regarding political dialogue ahead of the 12th parliamentary elections.
EC Secretary Md Jahangir Alam on Tuesday said that the letter written by US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu will have no impact on the election schedule.
He said: "First of all, the commission is not aware of whether it is a dialogue letter or not. Nothing came to the commission. The commission is proceeding at its own pace in accordance with the roadmap and constitutional obligations.”
The United States is reportedly seeking an unconditional dialogue with the main political parties —Awami League, BNP, and Jatiya Party — to ensure a free, fair, and participatory election. Donald Lu has written a letter to the three major political parties of the country to fulfil this goal.
According to sources, US Ambassador to Dhaka Peter Haas is taking charge of the embassy to resolve the dispute between the two political parties.
On Monday, Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader visited his office and delivered the letter of dialogue after discussing it with him.
The EC secretary said: "There is no such threat regarding any additional activity of law and order forces amid the opposition of political parties. The meeting with law enforcement forces has provided the necessary instructions; they will monitor everything."
When asked about the announcement of the schedule to enhance the security of the centre, the secretary mentioned that it is the responsibility of the home ministry to maintain law and order, and they have already been informed by the commission.
