Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal today said the passing of ‘Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, 2023’ in parliament has increased the power of the Election Commission (EC).
“The government amended the RPO as per our proposals. EC sought those amendments for making its position stronger and integrated. The government agreed it and the parliament also. It increases our power,” he told a press briefing at Nirbachan Bhaban at Agargaon here.
The CEC said as per the new amendment, the EC will have the authority to cancel voting of several affected centers if it finds any irregularities through its investigation after the voting and EC will have the power to stop gazette issuance.
The proposals for RPO amendments were sent to the Law Ministry 11 months back and the cabinet approved it without bringing any change, he said, adding that the ministry also took opinion of the EC before placing it.
The CEC said various comments were made in several months which can mislead the people.
He said the entire nation wants a fair election. Insulting the EC by making unnecessary and misleading comments is very much unexpected, he said, adding that if anyone gives constructive suggestions, it will be conducive for the commission.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha