Dhaka: Election Commission (EC) Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed announced that the Commission has decided to increase the number of secret voting booths within existing polling stations, rather than establishing additional polling centers for the upcoming 13th National parliamentary election and the referendum.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the decision was reached following a mock voting exercise conducted to determine the necessity of additional polling centers. The preliminary analysis indicated that increasing the number of secret booths would suffice in ensuring a smooth voting process. Ahmed emphasized that this move aims to facilitate voters in casting their ballots efficiently, maintaining the natural pace of the voting process.
Addressing concerns about election officials receiving hospitality from local influential groups, Ahmed stated that strict instructions have been issued to prevent such practices. To support this directive, the commission has increased allowances for election officials and is considering additional financial benefits on duty days to ensure independence from external accommodations.
Ahmed also highlighted the resumption of the expatriate voter registration system, which had been temporarily suspended due to technical issues. New features have been introduced, including options for address and spelling corrections, enhancing the system's flexibility.
Furthermore, ministries have been requested to designate a 'contact point' for quick coordination as needed. The postal department has also been tasked with organizing visits to ballot paper printing facilities and sorting centers to allow stakeholders to observe the arrangements firsthand.
Regarding security measures, Ahmed commented that the home ministry remains the chief authority and has assured that the overall situation is stable despite occasional minor incidents. Authorities remain vigilant to prevent any potential escalation.
The announcement followed the Commission's second round of meetings with secretaries and departmental heads from 21 ministries. These meetings, held earlier today from 3 pm, focused on reviewing coordination, deployment planning, and other preparations in anticipation of the election schedule announcement.