EC to Launch ‘Postal Vote BD’ App for Expatriate Voters
The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh is set to launch a mobile application titled Postal Vote BD on November 16 to facilitate voting for expatriate Bangladeshis in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md Sanullah made the announcement on Wednesday, October 22, during a training program for Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs) at the Election Training Institute in Agargaon.
He said, “We are arranging online registration and voting facilities for expatriate voters and prisoners. Once they complete their registration, ballot papers will be sent to their registered addresses. After casting their votes, they will return the ballots to the returning officers. An online-based postal ballot app is being developed for this purpose.”
“The app is currently under trial and will be made publicly available on November 16,” he added.
Addressing the trainees, the commissioner emphasized, “UNOs must be prepared in advance to ensure a proper voting environment. No one should work in favor of any side. Everyone must seize this opportunity to act with integrity.”
Election Commissioner Md Anwarul Islam Sarkar stated, “There was a period of instability after August 5. Many things happened under the influence of various figures. Officials have no reason to fear anymore. During the two caretaker governments, we experienced the highest level of authority and freedom. It seems a similar atmosphere is emerging again. You need not worry—full backing will be provided.”
He continued, “There is no doubt that the reputation of government officials has been undermined. Under this administration, there is an opportunity to demonstrate honesty and dedication. Do not be afraid—act with courage for the sake of existence. Mobile courts must be transparent and regularly active.”
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud observed, “The stark reality is that elections in this country are managed by the Returning Officers—mainly the Deputy Commissioners. Those who conduct the elections are the Assistant Returning Officers—you are the ones who truly execute them. Yet, your names do not appear in the books. To put it simply, the Election Commission is the only constitutional authority responsible for conducting elections, but it is impossible for five commissioners alone to do so. Everyone’s cooperation is essential.”
He further said, “I do not personally handle the ballots. Complaints often arise that the boxes are already full by night. People claim the voting is done overnight—what a strange thing to say! Did the Election Commission conduct that? You might say I am avoiding my duty, but legally that is not the case. I have already blown the whistle to start the process.”
The commissioner also remarked, “In elections, there are always two sides—the players. Naturally, everyone wants to win. To win, some engage in fierce struggles, and sometimes minor manipulations occur. This has been happening for generations and continues to this day.”
Chief Election Commissioner and other senior EC officials, including EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed, were also present at the event presided over by the secretary.
