Deceased voters removed, excess female voter number adjusted: CEC

Voter lists have been updated by visiting each household, deceased voters have been removed from the rolls, and the excess number of female voters compared to male voters has been adjusted, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has said. 

He was addressing a dialogue with representatives of civil society at the Election Bhaban in the capital's Agargaon, ahead of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections, on Sunday. 

"Besides, nine legal amendments are underway, which will enhance the transparency and efficiency of the election," he said.

"Most of the preparations necessary for a free and fair election have already been completed. Many important proposals have emerged from the reform commission discussions, and we are ensuring that any gaps, if there are, will be addressed," he added.

The CEC also said, "This time we will ensure that all voters can exercise their right to vote. Enabling expatriates to vote will be considered a milestone." 

"In the past, returning officers residing in the country could not vote; this time, their voting rights will also be ensured. Furthermore, polling officers, government officials and employees, as well as persons under legal custody, will also be able to vote - InshaAllah," he observed. 

Election commissioners, the EC Senior Secretary and other senior officials were present. 

Representatives of civil society included former Adviser to the Caretaker Government Rasheda K Chowdhury, former Ambassador M Humayun Kabir, Dhaka University Professor Rubayet Ferdous and 13 other prominent individuals.

The main purpose of the dialogue was to gather civil society views on election preparations, challenges and solutions and to determine all relevant steps to enhance transparency and participation in the upcoming election.