Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah on Tuesday assured that the upcoming national elections, scheduled for February 12, will be conducted with transparency, impartiality and firmness, dismissing any concerns about the process.

Speaking to journalists after a meeting with Law Enforcement Cell of Chattogram at the division’s Circuit House, Sanaullah said all necessary measures have been taken to maintain law and order at field level and Election Commission’s (EC) actions will be clearly visible on the ground.

“The commission will adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards political parties and candidates in ensuring compliance with the electoral code of conduct,” he said.

Earlier, Sanaullah met with Vigilance and Observation Team to review overall security arrangements in Greater Chattogram, a politically, economically and strategically important border region.

He noted that security-sensitive issues have been identified, possible risks assessed and coordinated measures taken by all agencies to prevent any untoward incidents during the elections.

The Election Commissioner added that political parties and candidates are being closely monitored for compliance with the code of conduct and the relatively low level of inter-party conflict so far is a positive sign.

“As the election approaches, it is crucial that all parties refrain from violence. Our objective is to ensure a peaceful and festive election atmosphere,” he said.

Sanaullah expressed satisfaction with the preparedness of the integrated security forces and stressed the importance of fair and peaceful elections.

He also highlighted the media’s role in providing accurate information and countering misinformation, warning that spreading false information is a punishable offence.

Responding to concerns about alleged bias, he urged aggrieved individuals to lodge complaints with the Election Inquiry Committee or through the EC’s complaint management system, assuring that appropriate action would be taken following investigation.

He also mentioned the ongoing “Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2” against illegal arms holders, reporting that over 200 illegal weapons have already been recovered.

“The voters will move confidently to polling centres to cast their votes. The negative experiences of the past will not be repeated, InshaAllah,” he added.

The meeting was attended by Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Dr Md Ziauddin, Chattogram Range DIG Ahsan Habib Palash, Deputy Commissioner Zahidul Islam Miah, and Chattogram District Police Superintendent Nazir Ahmed Khan, among others.