No bias to any political party will be tolerated during election: Home adviser

Reiterating that 12 February national election is vital for shaping the country’s future, Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has instructed all officials and law enforcers involved in the process to carry out their duties with full honesty, efficiency and professionalism.

“Minimal prejudice toward any political party will not be tolerated,” he warned.

He made the remarks while addressing a law and order exchange meeting at the Bangladesh Police Auditorium in Rajarbagh organised by the home ministry and Dhaka Divisional Commissioner’s Office, aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the upcoming national election and referendum.

The adviser emphasised that government employees must not have favouritism for any political party but are servants of the state and paid by taxpayers.

“Any form of biased conduct toward a candidate or political party will face strict departmental and legal action,” he said.

He added that officials must completely refrain from accepting money, food or any other benefits from candidates or their representatives.

Highlighting the importance of neutrality, he said the future of the country’s democracy depends on a transparent and credible election.

“If the election is not fair, the nation may face a dark future. Therefore, the role and conduct of officials and law enforcement agencies are crucial,” he noted.

Jahangir expressed hope that the next national election would set a standard appreciation from both domestically and internationally.

The adviser also directed officials to strictly follow the Representation of People’s Order (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, the Political Party and Candidate Conduct Code in Parliamentary Elections 2025, and all instructions issued by the Election Commission.

Neutrality, he said, must be reflected in words, actions, behaviour and implementation.

He further advised senior officials to regularly brief subordinate officers on election rules and conduct codes and, if necessary, hold daily meetings at district and metropolitan levels to discuss preparations, challenges, do’s and don’ts, and ongoing activities.

Senior Secretary of the home ministry Nasimul Ghani presided over the meeting.

Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali and Dhaka Divisional Commissioner Sharfuddin Ahmed spoke as special guests.

DIG of Dhaka Range Rezaul Karim Mallick delivered the address of welcome.

Senior administrative officials, election officers, and police officials from Dhaka Division and the Dhaka Metropolitan Police were present at the meeting.