Dhaka:According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin emphasized the crucial role of women's participation in achieving a sustainable democratic system. Speaking at a workshop titled 'Draft Gender Equality Strategy', organized by the UN Electoral Project at the Election Training Institute, the CEC highlighted that democracy cannot be consolidated by excluding half of the population from the process.
The CEC pointed out the importance of ensuring the participation of 50 percent of the country's population and expressed concern about the low number of women candidates in upcoming local government elections due to cultural norms. He stressed the need for changing mindsets and increasing public awareness to strengthen democratic institutions.
Women should have appropriate opportunities and meaningful participation in elections, said Nasir Uddin, noting that the next elections would be highly competitive as local candidates strive to engage voters.
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Mashud stated that, while strong laws exist to protect women, legal measures alone are insufficient. He called for a social revolution to safeguard women's rights.
Election Commissioner Begum Tahmida Ahmed emphasized reaching rural and coastal areas to increase the number of women voters, while Commissioner Md Anwarul Islam Sarker advocated for easier voter registration for women and the prevention of harassment.
Commissioner Brigadier General (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanauallah highlighted the need for women's involvement in political decision-making to boost the number of female candidates. He also urged for initiatives to combat misinformation against women on social media.