Bangladesh News

The Election Commission (EC) yesterday did not send any invitation letter to the two major political alliances, asking them to have talks with the EC on how to hold the ninth parliamentary election, although it is trying to get their consent for dialogues.

Meanwhile, EC Secretary Abdur Rashid Sarkar on Sunday said meeting with the major political alliances might start today.

However, Acting Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Justice Mahfuzur Rahman yesterday said, “Letters are yet to be sent and time and the date for dialogues have not been fixed.”

“We are keeping in touch with them [political parties]. Their consent is also required,” he said.

“Election is not being held on January 22,” Mahfuzur told the reporters at the doorstep of the EC as he was leaving his office.

He said the fate of the January 22 elections, whether it has been postponed or cancelled, depends on the caretaker government.

“It [postponement or cancellation] depends on the decision of the advisers,” the acting CEC said, adding, “What the council of advisers is saying now is that the elections can not be held on January 22.”

On the possible date for the next elections, he said, “We will discuss first and then fix a date.”

Mid-level EC officials earlier told reporters that all activities of January 22 election had been stopped after the proclamation of state of emergency and the formation of a new caretaker government. The top EC officials, however, kept mum on this issue.

When asked who, the EC or the caretaker government, has the authority to hold the elections, the acting CEC avoided answering the question.

About his meeting with two members of the European Union (EU) election observer team, Mahfuzur said, “It was a courtesy call. They just informed us of their leaving the country.”