Dhaka, Dec 11 (V7N) — Election Commission (EC) Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said on Thursday that while the EC cannot comment on the independence or jurisdiction of the courts, there are concerns that recent court verdicts on constituency boundaries may be curtailing the commission’s authority.

Speaking at a briefing in Agargaon, the EC Secretary clarified that the election schedule will initially cover all 300 seats. Boundaries in Gazipur and Bagerhat are being revised in accordance with court orders, while decisions on Faridpur will await further judicial rulings on boundary complexities.

He emphasized that after the schedule is announced, a circular will be issued to ensure a level playing field, and political parties’ cooperation will be needed. Violations of election laws will be strictly addressed.

Regarding administrative reshuffles, Akhtar Ahmed said the process is ongoing and must be conducted with the permission and guidance of the Election Commission.

On the postal ballot, the EC Secretary said that those in legal custody can register from December 21 to 25. So far, 310,467 expatriates have registered for postal voting and will be able to cast their votes once the schedule is announced. Security personnel involved in the elections will require additional time for registration.

He also mentioned that the Out of Country Voting and In-Country Postal Vote app is available on the Google Play Store, but approval is still pending for Apple’s App Store.

END/SMA/AJ