EC bars all professional bodies’ elections ahead of Feb 12 national polls

The Election Commission (EC) has directed all professional bodies and organisations to refrain from holding elections ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum, scheduled for February 12.

According to a letter issued today, the EC said the move aims to ensure that the parliamentary election and referendum remain free from any form of influence.

The directive applies to elections of professional bodies, educational institutions, transport owners’ and workers’ associations, journalists’ associations, traders’ associations, cooperative societies, trade unions, and other organisations.

The EC’s letter has been sent to 38 government authorities, including the Cabinet Division, the Chief Adviser’s Office, the Ministry of Home Affairs, returning officers of Dhaka and Chattogram, regional election officers, and deputy commissioners.