Dhaka, May 5 -- Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad on Monday said deputy commissioners can play a strong role in ensuring free, fair and credible elections in the country. He said district commissioners perform the duties of returning officers in every national election and therefore their role is significant in establishing democracy in Bangladesh.

The Speaker made the remarks while addressing the "Deputy Commissioners Conference 2026" organised by the Cabinet Division at the oath room of the Jatiya Sangsad as the chief guest.

Referring to the past political situation, he said the country's election system during the Awami League government's 16-year rule was marked by "unprecedented corruption and irregularities."

Australian Speaker Milton Di...