Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Sunday said that Election Commission (EC) conducted the appeal hearings without any bias and remains firmly committed to holding a fair and inclusive election with the participation of all stakeholders.

Speaking to reporters after completing nine consecutive days of appeal hearings at Election Commission building, the CEC said the commission had taken several steps to ensure broader participation.

“We want a fair and inclusive election involving everyone. With that objective, we even relaxed the requirement for independent candidates to secure endorsements from one percent of voters,” he said.

Nasir acknowledged that EC’s decisions might attract criticism, but stressed that easing the endorsement requirement was solely intended to make the electoral process more participatory.

“We eased the condition because we want wider involvement. However, such an election will not be possible without the cooperation of candidates and all concerned,” he added.

Reiterating the commission’s neutrality, the CEC assured that neither he nor his colleagues had shown any partiality while delivering judgments.

“On behalf of myself and my team, I can assure you that we have acted without bias. Our decisions were taken after careful consideration and with sincerity,” he said.

He also praised the candidates for their disciplined and constructive participation during the hearings, noting that many remained present from morning until night.

Describing the exchanges as reasoned debate, Nasir thanked the candidates for their patience, composure and cooperation throughout the process.