Election Commissioner Brig Gen Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah (retd) has warned that the consequences would be “very severe” if evidence of bias is found against anyone involved in the election process.

He made the remarks while addressing a meeting with law enforcement agencies, vigilance and observation teams of Barishal district at the Circuit House auditorium in the city Sunday.

The Election Commissioner said all concerned must work to ensure transparency in the election process, stressing that there should be no secrecy or concealment in carrying out election-related duties. He added that if any wrongdoing or bias is detected, it will be made public through the media.

Emphasizing security issues, he said the Election Commission has taken a firm stance and will continue to do so. “Our likes and dislikes are confined only to exercising our right to vote as citizens. Beyond that, there is no scope for personal preference,” he added.

“I am working with professionalism, and therefore, everyone must discharge their duties with full responsibility. For me, there is no concept of small or big parties, heavyweight or lightweight candidates. Everyone must be treated equally in the application of the law,” he added.

Issuing a warning to the election-related officials, the commissioner said that if anyone fails to rise above personal preferences despite clear instructions and if bias is proven, the consequences will be very serious. “The Election Commission will be extremely strict in this regard,” he said.

Addressing the members of law enforcement agencies, he said that if they remain firm, no one will get the opportunity to create disorder. 

The meeting was chaired by Returning Officer Khairul Alam Suman.

Superintendent of Police Farzana Islam and other senior officials concerned were present at the meeting.