Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) KM Nurul Huda has called for a free, fair and violence-free election.

He made the comments on Monday to executive magistrates entrusted with election time responsibility.

In the last three days, including today, 691 executive magistrates were briefed.

“We want a peaceful election without violence,” said the CEC and added, “We ask you to give support to the law enforcing agencies.”

We want to create such an atmosphere so a voter can go to the centre, cast his/her vote for the preferred candidate, whoever that may be, and go back home rest in security, added the CEC.

Asking the magistrates to use their prudent judgment, the CEC warned, “You may often have to face provocative situation and may be misguided.”

In such circumstances, I urge you to use your intelligence and power of discernment, he exhorted.

The CEC also asked the magistrates to maintain their patience and have total understanding of the election time rules.

“Since all parties are taking part, you need to be neutral and swift in your actions.”

Do not deviate from the law and patiently deal with problems, he urged.