Dhaka: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Tuesday emphasized that the Election Commission has courageously embraced the challenge of implementing an IT-supported hybrid postal balloting system, being fully aware of the potential challenges and issues that may arise.
According to United News of Bangladesh, CEC Nasir Uddin made these remarks during a briefing session with political party representatives on the new postal voting system. The briefing, which took place at the Nirbachan Bhaban auditorium in Agargaon, outlined the technical aspects of the hybrid postal balloting system that combines digital registration with manual ballot papers.
The CEC stated that this initiative is unprecedented in Bangladesh’s history. “We have entered an unknown area. But we took an oath and made a commitment that we must implement it,” he asserted, highlighting the Election Commission’s determination to see the project through.
Acknowledging the role of media, Nasir Uddin noted the support received from journalists throughout the process. He emphasized that media cooperation was crucial in countering negative perceptions on social media which could have jeopardized the initiative.
He also addressed the natural occurrence of mistakes and misunderstandings in any new initiative, assuring that once clarified, the motivations behind the initiative would be transparent. The CEC expressed optimism that the participation of expatriate voters from 122 countries in the upcoming general election and simultaneous referendum on February 12 would enhance Bangladesh’s global image.
Nasir Uddin conveyed his belief that the successful implementation of this postal ballot system could lead to international recognition for Bangladesh. He mentioned that visiting foreigners have expressed similar sentiments, suggesting that Bangladesh could make history with this initiative where many other nations have not.
The briefing was attended by Election Commissioners Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Tahmida Ahmed, Anwarul Islam Sarkar, and Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah, along with EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed.