No scope to manipulate polls flexing muscle power: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal on Sunday said there is no scope for any candidate to win in the Cumilla City Corporation (CCC) elections by flexing muscle power.

He said the Election Commission wants competition but not any war; and it will be a big mistake if any candidate tries to win by flexing muscle power, reports UNB.

“Adequate members of law enforcement agencies will be deployed. We’re ready to hold the elections in a festive mood,” said the CEC at a meeting with mayor and councillor candidates of the CCC elections at Cumilla District Shilpakala auditorium.

CEC Awal said if any candidate wins the election by any unfair means and if it is found out after the election through investigation, then the Election Commission (EC) will take necessary legal steps including filing of cases as per the law.

Besides, if the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) get out of service or damaged in any of the centres, the voting time will be extended for the voters who will arrive at the centres before 4 pm.

The EVMs will be used in the Cumilla City Corporation elections set for June 15. “We have all the preparations to conduct the poll in a fair way. Action will be taken if anyone tries to ruin the environment,” he said.

The CEC also urged the candidates to help conduct the election in a disciplined way.