The polling for the 13th parliamentary election and the highly anticipated referendum ended in a festive and peaceful atmosphere across the country.
Voting commenced at 7:30am and continued without interruption until 4:30pm on Thursday. Following the conclusion of polling, the counting of votes at individual centres is currently underway nationwide.
Election Commission (EC) Secretary Akhtar Ahmed informed journalists during a briefing at the EC building in Agargaon that the voter turnout stood at 47.91 percent as of 2pm. He noted that voters in 299 constituencies spontaneously exercised their right to franchise, describing the overall process as fair and peaceful.
The election was marked by a significant presence of female voters at the polling centres. While long queues were observed from the morning, there was a notable turnout of elderly and female voters in particular.
Although there was considerable enthusiasm among the youth, middle-aged voters were seen in larger numbers during the early hours.
Voters participated in a historic process this year, navigating a dual-voting system. In addition to electing their Members of Parliament, they cast “Yes” or “No” votes regarding the fundamental constitutional changes proposed for the implementation of the “July Charter.”
The EC Secretary stated that while there were some reports of isolated irregularities or disturbances, the situation was brought under control through the immediate intervention of law enforcement agencies.
The commission maintained that no major untoward incidents occurred during the day.
To ensure security, a heavy presence of joint forces – comprising the Army, Police, BGB, and Ansar – was maintained both inside and outside the polling centres.
While political activists and supporters of various candidates were present at the booths, no significant conflicts or tensions were reported.
