Bangladesh CEC Reports 180 Million People Have Been Deprived of Their Voting Rights

DHAKA, Jan 5: On Sunday, AMM Nasir Uddin, Bangladesh’s Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), stated that nearly 180 million citizens have been stripped of their voting rights, and the Election Commission aims to rectify this injustice, according to The Dhaka Tribune.

During the kickoff of a training program for election officials ahead of updating the voter registry, the CEC expressed the Commission’s commitment to address the long-standing disenfranchisement of the populace.

“We are determined to alleviate their suffering,” he remarked.

The nationwide door-to-door data collection for revising the potential voter list is set to commence on January 20.

The CEC emphasized that they are here to listen to the 180 million people affected by the absence of voting rights.

“We have taken on the responsibility to end their disenfranchisement,” he added.

The Commission’s primary objective is to organize a fair and credible election.

“This is a marathon that starts today and will continue until the results are delivered,” he stated.

“Our commitment to the nation is to ensure a free, fair, and credible election, especially since the people have been denied this for far too long,” the CEC noted.

In related news, the Election Commission has resolved to investigate irregularities and issues in all past elections, focusing particularly on the contentious 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections held during the Awami League’s tenure.

These elections are often cited as among the most controversial in Bangladesh’s history.

The newly established Election Commission, which assumed its role on November 21, has initiated various reforms in preparation for the upcoming 13th National Election.

Recently, CEC Nasir Uddin remarked that the Awami League, previously led by ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, might participate in elections unless prohibited by the government or judiciary.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, 84, who took office to head the interim government following Hasina’s ouster in August, suggested during his Victory Day address on December 16 that elections could occur as early as 2026.

“Generally, the election could be scheduled between late 2025 and the first half of 2026,” Yunus stated, adding that the elections would take place after the voter list has been updated. (PTI)