The Election Commission (EC) has introduced voter enrolment and smart National Identity (NID) card facilities for Bangladeshi expatriates in Canada, marking a notable step towards bringing non-resident citizens into the country’s electoral process.
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin inaugurated the services on Thursday at the Bangladesh High Commission in Ottawa. At the event, he also handed over smart NID cards to several expatriates, formally launching the initiative, according to a message received in Dhaka.
“True democracy ensures participation of all citizens, no matter where they reside,” the CEC said, stressing the need to extend voting rights to Bangladeshis abroad. He added that expatriates, who play a crucial role in strengthening the economy through remittances, investments and knowledge exchange, deserve a voice in shaping the country’s future.
Following the launch, the CEC engaged with members of the expatriate community in an interactive session.
As part of the programme, Bangladeshi nationals in Canada can now complete voter registration and access NID services at the High Commission in Ottawa and the Consulate General in Toronto.
Acting High Commissioner Kazi Russel Pervez delivered the welcome remarks, while Deputy High Commissioner Dewan Hossne Ayub expressed his gratitude in the closing address.
Officials said the initiative underlines the government’s commitment to uphold the democratic rights of nearly 10 million Bangladeshis abroad, ensuring their voices are counted alongside their contributions to national development.
