The field level administrative officials especially divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners (DCs), superintendent of Police (SPs), and police commissioners must perform their duties according to the Election Commission instructions in order to ensure holding the 12th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) election in a free, fair and acceptable manner.
We believe our field level administrative officials and law enforcement agencies are now capable of facing any challenge and assisting the EC in presenting an acceptable and credible general poll to the nation. They have experiences, skills and patriotism.
So, they (DCs, SPs) will work in light of the skills and experiences as required during the national elections. The government will have nothing to do during the election period except routine work, while the EC will play the main role.
We all want a fair, acceptable and impartial election, while the entire world is also looking at Bangladesh too. Therefore, their role will be crucial in the election.
They (DCs and SPs) should not
misuse power
as they are the
servants of the people
While addressing the training programme of the field level administrative officials in the city on Friday Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal made his stand clear in this regard.
The CEC expressed his firm determination and sent a message that election must be held peacefully and free from violence, but it will not be possible by him alone without the help of the district administration and law-enforcing agencies.
Therefore, not only the CEC but also the assistance of field level officials is required for holding a free, fair and peaceful national election. The poll time government will only do the routine work. The main responsibilities will remain on the EC and security agencies will also be under them. They (DCs and SPs) will have to stay ready to ensure a fair election as their roles in holding the elections are crucial.
We think DCs, SPs and other field level administrative officials must develop a culture of transparency and accountability at all tiers of the administration. We are calling upon the civil servants to serve as real ‘public servants’ and give priority to the greater interests of the country.
In their respective workplaces, keep up the difference between responsibilities and powers. They (DCs and SPs) should not misuse their power as they are the servants of the people.
So, we hope, they will fulfil their responsibilities as the people’s servants to ensure fair poll. DCs and SPs must provide effective and proper leadership to fulfil the people’s fundamental rights. Therefore, they have no option but to execute CEC’s order.