Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has stated that the initiative to ensure the voting rights of expatriate voters through postal ballots will serve as an example not only for Bangladesh, but for the entire world.
During a briefing on the postal ballot process on Tuesday, the CEC remarked, “We have taken an initiative that has never been attempted in this country before; no one has taken this risk.”
He further noted that this bold step was taken in accordance with the Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’ announcement, despite knowing from the outset that it would involve numerous challenges.
Nasir Uddin acknowledged that the Commission has entered “unknown territory,” but emphasised that they are bound by their oath and commitment to see the process through. He also expressed gratitude for the cooperation of journalists throughout the implementation.
Addressing potential issues, the CEC mentioned that some errors or misunderstandings are natural with any new initiative. However, he expressed optimism that such confusion would dissipate once accurate information is presented.
During the briefing, Nasir Uddin also voiced significant concerns regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI), identifying it as a major challenge and a potential problem from the very beginning.
Regarding the enrollment of expatriate voters, the CEC revealed that individuals from 122 countries have joined the process.
He explained that coordinating the varying cultures, laws, and postal systems of different nations remains a significant challenge, which the Election Commission team is successfully managing.
“I believe this will be an example for the whole world, not just Bangladesh,” the CEC said, adding that the successful execution of postal voting would one day enhance the country’s global reputation.
In addition to the expatriate initiative, Nasir Uddin announced that, for the first time, arrangements have been made for prisoners to cast their votes.
Special measures have also been introduced for voters who are stationed away from their home districts due to their professional responsibilities, a provision that did not exist previously.
