Dhaka: The Election Commission (EC) has officially published the registration and voting procedures for expatriate Bangladeshis, allowing them to cast their votes through IT-supported postal ballots. This initiative is aimed at ensuring the participation of expatriates in the democratic process.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the EC released the sample procedure on its official website, detailing two main components: ‘Registration process for IT-supported postal voting’ and ‘Voting process for IT-supported postal voting.’ Expatriates will be able to complete their application through a streamlined online process.
The registration process comprises 11 detailed steps. Initially, voters need to launch the ‘Vote for You’ app and select their country of residence outside Bangladesh. A new account can be set up using a mobile number, which will be verified through a one-time password (OTP). Subsequent steps include capturing a photo, completing live face verification, taking a selfie while holding their National Identity Card (NID), and uploading an image of the NID for verification.
The process also involves automatic verification of passport details. Voters must finally provide their foreign address for the delivery of the postal ballot. Once the account is verified, the registration is deemed complete, and the voter awaits the ballot.
For casting votes, a nine-step process has been defined. Upon receiving the ballot paper, voters are required to confirm their address in the app, adhere to EC guidelines, and verify their mobile number. They must then take a photo, scan the QR code on the envelope, and mark their choice on the ballot paper. The sample ballot paper should be preserved, the declaration inside the envelope signed, and the completed ballot sealed inside the return envelope and submitted to the nearest post office.
EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed informed reporters on September 18 about a special ‘Out of Country Voting’ project for expatriates. The ‘Vote for You’ app, developed under this project, is available for download from the Google Play Store and can be used for registration with the NID. Although the app has not been launched yet, its name and structure have received Commission approval.
Once registration is complete, the voter’s information will be automatically matched with the NID database to identify the respective parliamentary constituency. Voters will then specify the foreign address for ballot delivery.
Officials highlighted that this initiative will enable expatriate Bangladeshis to exercise their voting rights safely and conveniently, thus ensuring their participation in the country’s democratic process.