Bangladesh to Announce Election and Referendum Schedules in Mid-December: CEC

The Bangladesh Election Commission on Saturday declared that it will announce the schedules for the February 26 national election and referendum in the second week of December, as preparations for both the polls are ongoing at rapid pace.

The body is also conducting mock polls in order to assess how to both conduct a dual national vote as per an inclusive procedure, as well as for tackling any potential problems that may emerge.

The country's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin, speaking to reporters after inspecting a mock polling exercise at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar Government High School, remarked that the preparations for conducting both the upcoming polls were "largely complete", with the EC aiming to deliver a smooth, inclusive and credible process.

The Nov 29, mock voting was organised to assess how an ideal polling centre functions in a dual-election scenario.

"We are observing voter queues, the activities of polling officers, the role of presiding officers, and the presence of journalists and observers," Nasir Uddin said.

He noted that the exercise was especially important for first-time voters and for evaluating time management on polling day, given that the referendum and national election will run simultaneously, reports Business Standard BD.

The voting process is typically held from 8am - 4pm, and the assessment will help determine whether the planned 42,500 polling centres are sufficient or require expansion.

"Adding booths means more staff, ballot boxes and logistical support. We will adjust as needed," he said, adding that the long queues today were helpful in identifying gaps and improving efficiency.

On the security situation, the CEC said conditions had improved considerably. "Law and order have never been perfect, but the situation is now much calmer," he remarked. He said the EC was coordinating closely with law enforcement agencies and expected further improvements as polling day approached.

The CEC also clarified that although the referendum contains four proposals, voters will cast only a single "Yes" or "No" ballot.

"Partial choices are not allowed. The proposals are legally bundled and politically determined," he said, claiming that the law and order situation had improved considerably.

Claiming that crimes such as theft and snatching – noted to be quite common during this time normally – had become far less frequent since Aug 5, 2024, he called it "evidence of the greater stability" ahead of the polls.

The mock vote, started early afternoon with a total of 510 male and female voters participating in simulated polls.