Dhaka: The Election Commission (EC) released new directives concerning the use of vehicles by candidates and their election agents during the upcoming referendum and the 13th National Parliamentary Election set for February 12. The guidelines are aimed at ensuring smooth and regulated transportation on polling day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, each candidate and their election agent will be permitted to use one vehicle each, such as a jeep, car, microbus, CNG, auto-rickshaw, or other small vehicles, for their movement on polling day. These vehicles can carry a maximum of five individuals, including the driver, who must possess a valid driving license. Any appointed gunman for security purposes will be counted within this five-person limit.
In regions where using vehicles other than motorcycles is not feasible, both the candidate and the election agent may use up to two motorcycles each. Each motorcycle is allowed to carry no more than two individuals, including the driver with a valid license. For waterway transport, both the candidate and agent may travel with up to five persons each, including the boat operator.
The guidelines also require candidates or election agents to obtain identity cards from the Returning Officer. These cards are necessary for anyone accompanying them in the vehicle, apart from the candidate, election agent, and any gunman. Additionally, vehicles must display official stickers issued by the Returning Officer. The directive specifies that only the candidate and the election agent will be allowed entry into the polling center premises.