Call Records Leak Fear Keeps Me from Answering Phones: Chief Election Commissioner

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin has admitted that he avoids answering telephone calls due to concerns over possible leaks of call recordings. He emphasised that he does not engage in conversations with political leaders over the phone but prefers face-to-face discussions instead. He remarked that this practice has, unfortunately, earned him a degree of notoriety.

On Sunday, 28 September, during the concluding remarks of an electoral dialogue with intellectuals and civil society representatives in the capital, the CEC explained his stance.

The CEC elaborated: “Whenever we speak on the phone, the call records end up being leaked. Out of fear of this, I do not answer calls. Many people complain that the CEC does not talk over the phone. I tell them, come to me directly, I will speak with you. If necessary, submit your proposals in writing. But I will not converse over the telephone.”

Nasir Uddin also highlighted that the Commission is well aware of the implications of artificial intelligence (AI). He stressed that measures are being developed to effectively counter potential risks.

Reiterating his pledge for a fair electoral process, the CEC stated that:

• Foreign observers will be welcomed.
• Domestic observers will be registered as widely as possible.
• The authority to cancel elections of entire constituencies is being reinstated.

He assured: “We will make every effort to implement your suggestions. It will not be like in the past. Our objective is to conduct a beautiful, free, and transparent election in cooperation with all stakeholders.”

Turning to civil society representatives, the CEC urged: “Please tell the people to participate in the election. We promise this time the election will be good. Our doors remain open at all times. Your recommendations will be received and acted upon.