UNB, Dhaka : Election Commissioner M Shahnewaz on Wednesday said they will take ‘direct action’ from now on instead of issuing any letter against those who violate the Election Code of Conduct, no matter who they are.Talking to reporters at his office, Shahnewaz also said even they may cancel candidature if they indulge in irregularities and violate the election code of conduct and take help from important persons.”Now we don’t have plenty of time in our hands to issue any letter for breaching of the election code of conduct. We’ve ordered returning officers to take direct action through magistrates against those who violate it, no matter who they are — VVIPs, influential MPs and individuals,” Shahnewaz said.The Election Commissioner said they have information some influential people are violating the election code of conduct. “If any important person helps candidates with their approval, we even can revoke their candidatures.”Referring to the Commission’s criticism for seeking Prime Minister’s intervention in checking the incidents of code violation by ruling party men, he said, “It’s not possible to hold a fair election by the EC’s efforts alone. Cooperation from all is needed for it. So, seeking one’s help doesn’t expose our helplessness.”Shahnewaz also asked law enforcers to discharge their duties properly in the election areas in maintaining the law and order.
