Country now in a critical juncture, future hinges on next polls: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin has said the country's transition from the current critical time depends on the next parliamentary election, report agencies..
He said, "Bangladesh is now in a very critical situation. The nation's future and its democracy will entirely hinge on the next elections."
He made the remarks while talking to journalists after inspecting a training programme at the Ansar Guard Battalion (AGB) in the capital's Vatara on Monday.
The programme was held as part of a nationwide mock drill on polling centre security for the upcoming national election and the 4th phase of the 2025-26 basic training for Ansar members.
The CEC told the Ansar members that besides being a member of the force, they have separate responsibilities as citizens of the country.
"What kind of Bangladesh will I leave for the future? … Whether it will be a democratic Bangladesh, and at what state I will leave it, these thoughts constantly haunt me. Personally, I have never treated this as a routine job; I see it a mission, a challenge."
The Ansar and the Village Defence Party (VDP) will play a 'big role' in the upcoming elections, the CEC said.
"I'm not hesitant to say that this is the largest force in terms of number. If we consider trained forces, this is the largest one."
"The main force responsible for maintaining law and order at polling stations is the Ansar. They are deployed in large numbers. Those who will have duties (to ensure law and order during voting) in the future have a responsibility to build the future of Bangladesh."
He also commented that the Ansar will play a huge role in determining the course of Bangladesh through the next elections.
Nasir said the Ansar personnel were trained at 74 centres for the upcoming elections, while police personnel were receiving training in 130 training centres.
He also said, "I do not believe in traditional ways of working, especially in such a critical moment when the country is in a critical situation. We cannot stick to traditional ways here. We need to opt for out-of-the-box solutions."
He said a workforce of at least 1 million people, including presiding officers, returning officers and law enforcement personnel, will be deployed for the elections.
"People who are on election duty usually can't cast their ballots. We have taken an initiative this time so that those of you who will be on voting duty can cast your vote."
Stating that an app will be launched on November 16, the CEC said: "You will have to register. The ballot will be delivered to your home address. You can vote as per the instructions. Those who live outside their constituency will also be able to vote."