Election Commissioner Md Anwarul Islam Sarker on Saturday said there is no doubt that the next national election will be held in February 2026, assuring that all government agencies are working in coordination to ensure a free and fair poll.
“All government bodies involved in the election process are working actively. The police are also conducting training programs on election management and have strengthened their role to ensure a secure and disciplined environment,” he said.
The commissioner made the remarks while addressing a day-long workshop titled “Identifying Challenges and Solutions for Polling Officers in the Election Process” at the FIVDB Central Training Centre in Shantiganj upazila, Sunamganj.
He emphasized the need for neutrality among all polling officials, saying, “Everyone must remain neutral during the election. Your security will be automatically ensured. Each presiding officer is the Chief Election Commissioner of their respective center, so you must know the law well to avoid mistakes and perform your duties properly.”
Sarker reaffirmed the Election Commission’s determination to conduct a credible election. “This Commission is not like the previous ones. We are committed to holding a free and fair election at any cost. Maximum security measures will be taken for voters and polling centers. No one will be spared if they try to disrupt law and order,” he warned.
Acknowledging the challenges of the haor (wetland) region, he said, “Many polling centers in Sunamganj are remote and risky. We will recommend higher allocations for those areas. The entire nation—and the world—is watching us. We will not allow this election to be tainted.”
Sylhet Regional Election Officer Md Ala Uddin presided over the workshop, which was also addressed by Additional Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat K M Ali Newaz, Sunamganj Deputy Commissioner Dr Mohammad Ilyas Mia, Superintendent of Police Tofail Ahmed, and Deputy Secretary and Project Director of BTEB Project Md Mostafa Hasan.
The workshop provided hands-on training and guidance to government officials on how to manage polling duties effectively to ensure a fair and peaceful election.
MN/
