SYLHET, Dec 30, 2023 - (BSS) - Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal today vowed that the 12th Jatiya Sangsad elections must be free and fair at any cost.

"The elections to the next 12th Jatiya Sangsad must be fair at any cost. . . and the Election Commission (EC) is working relentlessly for this purpose," the CEC told a view-exchange-meeting with law enforcers and local administration at Shilpakala Academy here.

He further sought cooperation of all concerned to ensure a free, fair and peaceful elections and urged all people not to be misguided or confused over the holding the next general polls.

"The election commission is firm to hold this election in a free, fair and impartial manner . . . We have already got all necessary manpower support as per the requirement from the government to ensure fair polls," Habibul Awal categorically said.

He said the EC is working sincerely right now to ensure all candidates' equal opportunities in the election race.

 The polls process is progressing continuously with the cooperation of the government and the utmost sincerity of the officials of field administration as well, the CEC added.

Earlier, the CEC exchanged views with the candidates of six constituencies of the district at Sylhet Circuit House at 10 am.

EC Secretary Md Jahangir Alam spoke as the special guest on the occasion with Sylhet Divisional Commissioner Abu Ahmed Siddique in the chair.

Among others, Additional Divisional Commissioner Md. Jasim Uddin, Deputy Commissioner of Sylhet Sheikh Russel Ahmed and senior officials concerned were also present.