EC puts local admin on high alert

The Election Commission (EC) asked the local administration to remain on high alert before and during the Narayanganj-5 by-polls as it is a very sensitive area, reports UNB.

After a meeting with representatives of the law enforcement agencies, Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad told reporters Sunday that he asked them to finalise their security measures for the by-elections slated for June 26.

"Narayanganj is a very sensitive area. We'll, therefore, keep our bird eyes over it. We've already asked the returning officer and all other official concerned to stay alert," he said.

The law enforcement agencies have already started their drives to recover illegal arms and narcotics, Rakibuddin said.

The law and order situation deteriorated in Narayanganj following the recent sensational seven murders.

The CEC, however, said the law and order situation there is now normal and ruled out the possibility of violence in Narayanganj.

Four candidates Jatiya Party leader and BKMEA president Selim Osman, former MP and Nagarik Oikya adviser SM Akram, Krishak Sramik Janata League district unit president Delwar Hossain and independent candidate Sirajul Majid will contest the election.

The parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of Jatiya Party MP Nasim Osman, Salim Osman's brother, who died on April 30.

About Barisal-5 by-polls held today (Sunday), the CEC said the election was held in a free and fair manner as the commission received no report of violence.