Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal today has said that the next general election will surely be free, fair and neutral and the Election Commission (EC) is determined to ensure that.

"It is possible to hold a free and fair election with the support we have received from the government, and the EC is determined to hold the 12th national election in a free, fair and neutral manner,” the CEC said.

Kazi Habibul said the EC has been sincerely working so that all candidates can get equal facilities in the election field, while election activities have been moving forward unabatedly with the cooperation of the government and sincerity of the local administration.

Kazi Habibul made the remarks while exchanging views with the candidates of six Sylhet constituencies at Circuit House of the district on Saturday.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal said BNP's boycott is not a big challenge for holding the election. In a democratic state, a political party can criticize or boycott elections. They have that right.

"However, if BNP want to resist the election, it will be a big challenge. But we are ready to face the challenge. Necessary instructions have also been given to the law enforcement agencies in this regard," he said.

The CEC said, so far the election environment is quite favorable. The candidates have no complaints. However, some have complained that no matter how the election is held, all the votes will be cast in one place.

"This is an absurd allegation. At least this time it won't happen," he added.

The CEC said that this year's election will be free, fair and credible. There will be no partisan attitude in the election, I have also instructed the law enforcement agencies in this regard.

Responding to a question, he said internet bandwidth will not decrease on the election day.

"However, many people are trying to spoil the election by spreading false information on social media. They are misleading people. Strict action will be taken if anyone spreads such false information," the CEC warned.

Earlier, he exchanged views with the candidates of six constituencies of the district at Sylhet Circuit House at 10 am. The exchange lasted for about two and a half hours.

Sylhet Divisional Commissioner Abu Ahmed Siddique presided over the meeting while EC Secretary Md Jahangir Alam addressed the meeting as special guest. Jahangir Alam. Sylhet Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Sheikh Rasel Ahmed was present on the occasion.