Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Monday described the attack on Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inqilab Moncho and a potential independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency, as an “isolated incident,” saying the country’s overall law and order situation remains stable.

Speaking at a ‘Youth Voter’ programme in Gulshan, the CEC said sporadic incidents tend to occur during election periods and that such events are not new. Referring to past violence, he cited the killings of Ahsanullah Master and former finance minister Shah AMS Kibria during earlier elections, adding that the attack on Hadi should be viewed in the same context.

The CEC dismissed concerns over the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, stating that the polls would be held as scheduled. “The election will take place with everyone’s participation,” he said, noting that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to handle any situation until polling day. He reiterated that the election would be conducted “properly and on time.”

Urging young voters to take the lead, Nasir Uddin called on them to cast their votes and encourage others to do the same. “Young people are symbols of courage and creativity. Nation-building is not possible without you,” he said, expressing confidence that the next election would be free, fair and transparent, with strong youth participation.

Highlighting the role of young people in the country’s history, the CEC said youth had demonstrated their strength in key moments in 1969, 1970, 1971, 1990 and 2024. He stressed that Bangladesh’s progress depends on their creativity, knowledge-based ideas and energy.

Addressing journalists at the event, Nasir Uddin described the upcoming election as “historic,” citing several firsts. For the first time in 54 years, expatriate Bangladeshis will be able to vote through postal ballots, he said. Election officials who were previously unable to vote while on duty will also be allowed to cast ballots via postal voting.

Besides, incarcerated voters and government officials and employees will be able to vote, he added, alongside the organisation of a referendum. “With the participation of young people, we can move further ahead,” the CEC said, expressing optimism about Bangladesh’s future.