Combating AI misuse during polls to be challenging: CEC
Commission committed to ensuring postal ballot success, he says
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has acknowledged the challenge posed by the misuse of AI and digital platforms, noting that combating it remains a significant hurdle.
Speaking at a briefing with political parties today (20 January) at the EC auditorium in Dhaka's Agargaon, he expressed concern over the spread of "misinformation and confusion" on social media regarding the Election Commission's new IT-supported postal voting system for non-resident Bangladeshis.
"This initiative covers Bangladeshis in 122 countries. If implemented successfully, it will place Bangladesh prominently on the global electoral map," the CEC said, adding that the commission had anticipated the challenges and committed to ensuring the programme's success despite differences in laws, postal systems, and cultures across countries.
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He urged the media to help clarify public confusion, emphasising that criticism on social platforms often stems from misunderstanding rather than malintent. "Many developed countries have struggled with accommodating overseas citizens. Bangladesh, in its first-year initiative, is already ahead in terms of progress," he added.
The briefing was attended by election commissioners Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Tahmida Ahmed, Anwarul Islam Sarkar, and Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah, and EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed.
Law and order situation under control: EC
Meanwhile, Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicholas Wik visited the EC to review law and order ahead of the 13th national parliamentary elections. EC officials assured the envoy and his delegation that there were no concerns regarding security and explained measures for deploying law enforcement during polling. The ambassador and representatives expressed satisfaction with Bangladesh's preparations.
The EC is also running a coordination cell to counter AI misuse and tackle disinformation. The parliamentary and referendum elections are scheduled for 12 February. Of the roughly 2,500 aspiring candidates who filed nominations, 2,250 have been validated.
The withdrawal period ended today, and final symbols will be allocated by returning officers today. The EC will hold a nationwide press briefing on 25 January to provide consolidated election updates.
