Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah -Photo : Collected

DHAKA, Sept 27, 2025 (BSS) - Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah today said the absence of credible and inclusive elections in the country for a long time is one of the main reasons for the mass uprising that took place in July last year. 

"One of the main reasons for which we witnessed the July Uprising is the absence of good elections in the country," he said while addressing the 'Election Commission Officers Conference 2025' at Nirbachan Bhaban here.

Bangladesh Election Commission Officers Association organised the conference.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin addressed the discussion as the chief guest while election commissioners and EC secretary, among others, spoke at the event as special guests.

Sanaullah said, "Such an important event and its environment are rarely created in such a short time in the history of a nation. If we analyze the reasons behind today's reality, we will find that the number one reason for this is the collapse of the electoral system. Let us admit this truth frankly. Only when we accept a disease, its treatment is possible. And if we do not accept the problem, then how will it be solved?"

He said, "If we want to come out of this reality, if we want to solve this problem, then we have to promise from this conference today - we will never hold or participate in such elections again."

The EC said, "I want to send you a clear message, personally and on behalf of the Election Commission - this commission will never appoint you for any biased, unethical or corrupt election. If any of you voluntarily acts for any party, then you will have to bear the responsibility. The Election Commission will not give you any kind of protection. Keep this in mind. No pressure, no vague instructions or references will be given by this Commission. According to the law, there will be, and must be, a fair, impartial and transparent election."

At that time, other election commissioners also highlighted the strong position of the commission in their own speeches. 

Election Commissioner Md. Anwarul Islam Sarkar said, "In the last 10 months, the Election Commission has proven that this commission is a strong and backbone-equipped institution. If the backbone of this commission was not strong, we would not have been able to stand in any position. This commission has not worked on the basis of any bias or hatred, and will not do so in the future." 

Election Commissioner Begum Tahmida Ahmed said, "We will organize a gender-inclusive election this time. We are giving special importance to women. We are working to ensure that they can enjoy equal rights with men on voting day."