The use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be limited in the Khulna and Gazipur city corporation elections, Election Commissioner Rafiqul Islam said on Friday.
Although new and improved EVMs will be used in the May 15 polls, the Election Commission is yet to decide on the number of polling centres in Khulna where the machines would be set up.
The commissioner was speaking to reporters after a training workshop for returning officers, assistant returning officers and other election officials held in Khulna on Friday.
“Special security measures will be in effect in the risky voting centres after evaluations to ensure a free and fair election,” Rafiqul said. “These centres will also be under CCTV camera surveillance.”
According to the election schedule for both Khulna and Gazipur city corporations, the deadline for the submission of nomination papers is April 12, while the dates for scrutinizing those are April 15 and 16. The last date for withdrawal of candidatures is April 23.
Turning his attention to the national election, which is expected to be held in December, Rafiqul said the commission is not thinking about deploying troops.
“There is a very little chance of that happening,” he said. “We may consider army deployment only if such a necessity arises.”
In addition, he said the administration has been ordered to ensure that all candidates had a level playing field to carry out their electoral campaigns.
