EC happy despite violence

The Election Commission (EC) was satisfied with the Sunday’s election to 91 upazila (UZ) parishads in 43 districts, though it said stray and unwarranted incidents of violence led to suspension of voting in 32 polling stations across the country. “Though we tried our best to hold the elections peacefully, some stray and unwarranted incidents of violence took place that led to suspension of voting in 32 polling stations in the 4th phase of the local government polls,” said Election Commissioner Mohammad Abdul Mobarak. Commissioner Mobarak, who is now performing the duties of the Chief Election Commissioner, made the remarks at a press briefing after the count of vote began on Sunday night. Asked about various allegations raised by some candidates and BNP, the Election Commissioner said the EC received allegations through two channels – telephone and fax. Of them, 20 allegations received through fax were found acceptable and the commission took steps regarding these. He, however, termed the allegations that came through telephone as ‘misguided’ saying that these allegations were not found true on the ground. The complainants over telephone apparently raised the allegations apprehending possible defeat, he said. About the miscreants behind polls related violence and anomaly, he said none will be spared. At least six people were killed and many injured in poll-related violence in different districts on Sunday, according to a news agency.