Dhaka: Expatriate Bangladeshis will be able to exercise their voting rights in the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections, as announced by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, CEC Nasir Uddin confirmed the news during a press conference at Nirbachan Bhaban in Agargaon. The CEC emphasized that the registration process would be conducted easily and transparently, filling the remaining gaps to facilitate expatriate voting. During his recent visit to Canada, he engaged directly with Bangladeshi expatriates in Toronto and Ottawa, highlighting the IT-supported postal voting system, which has bolstered trust and confidence among the expatriates.
The CEC acknowledged the challenges faced in ensuring voting rights for expatriates but expressed optimism about the postal voting process's delivery, citing significant interest among expatriates in Toronto and Ottawa. He noted that while organizing activities is relatively straightforward in countries like America, Japan, and Canada, the process is more complex in the Middle East due to various reasons, necessitating work under multiple constraints.
Regarding the registration of new political parties, the CEC revealed that the target was to complete the registration by September. However, the process has been delayed due to complaints and the need for additional information from various parties. Although an initial notification has been issued, objections and complaints must be resolved before final approval.
Discussing the National Citizen Party's (NCP) demand for the Shapla symbol, the CEC stated that discussions are ongoing. The symbol was first requested by Nagorik Oikya but was not granted at that time. The NCP has since applied for it again, and a final decision will be made after the commission's meeting. He noted that any party can apply and write to the Election Commission, and decisions will be made considering the country's interest.