EC Mahbub Talukdar’s statement ‘unacceptable’: AL
Dhaka: Co-chairman of Awami League National Election Conducting Committee HT Imam on Wednesday termed ‘unacceptable’ the ‘personal’ statement of Election Commissioner Mahbub Talukdar urging law enforcers to uphold the dignity of uniform not being biased while performing their election duties.
‘It’s not acceptable if anyone gives directives personally going beyond the Commission,’ he said adding that it creates misunderstanding among people, reports the UNB.
HT Imam, also political affairs adviser to the Prime Minister, made the remarks while talking to reporters at Nirbachan Bhaban after leading an AL team to lodge complaints to the Election Commission about ‘attacks’ on party leaders and activists in different places across the country.
‘He (Mahbub Talukder) definitely can give a note of dissent. But it can’t be done publicly,’ he said.
HT Imam said the Election Commission means the Chief Election Commissioner along with four election commissioners. ‘So, the EC should give directives taking decisions collectively,’ he added.
Earlier in the day, Mahbub Talukdar urged law enforcers to uphold the dignity of uniform not being biased while performing their election duties. ‘Keep up the dignity of your uniform, exercise restraint and don’t be overenthusiastic,’ he said reading out a written statement.
Pointing at Jatiya Oikyafront leaders’ behaviour with the CEC on Tuesday, HT Imam said it not only demeaned the Election Commission but can also be regarded as violation of the electoral code of conduct.
‘If anyone talks thumping the table before the Election Commission or makes unpleasant remarks, we also get undermined. We also raised the issue before the Commission,’ he said.
Besides, the AL asked the EC to relax its restrictions on the movement of motorcycles for journalists and vehicles of candidates and political leaders bestowed with party’s responsibility.
The ruling party also urged the Commission to be alert over the circulation of black money during the election and keep online money transfer or mobile banking services suspended on the election day.
Other team members include PM’s Economic Affairs Adviser Dr Mashiur Rahman, Advocate Nazibullah Hiru, Advocate ABM Reazul Kabir Kawsar and Dr Selim Mahmud.