Dhaka, Dec. 18 -- The Election Commission has held no discussions with the Ministry of Home Affairs on providing firearms to candidates ahead of the upcoming national election, EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said yesterday, seeking to clarify speculation sparked by recent remarks from the home affairs adviser.

Speaking to reporters at the Nirbachan Bhaban on December 17, Akhtar said the commission had not taken up the issue formally and would make any decision only after assessing the overall law-and-order situation and the election environment.

"So far, there has been no discussion with the home ministry on this matter," he said. "The commission will take decisions considering the security situation and the broader electoral context." Akhta...