Water Resources Minister Anisul Islam Mahmud on Saturday observed that the Election Commission (EC) is not yet functioning independently in true sense. Speaking at BBC Bangladesh Sanglap at BIAM auditorium, the minister said there remain some weaknesses in the EC as it has not yet to be developed as a truly independent institution. He was responding to questions from the audience whether the role of the EC during the Upazila elections was fair. The EC must be independent in appointing its own manpower, deciding its own budget and enjoying the full control over the relevant activities, he added. Anisul Islam also stressed ensuring fair appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner. – UNB
