Election Commission extends NID, voter registration facility to Bangladeshis in Canada
Democracy is inclusive when all citizens can take part, wherever they live, says Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin
Bangladesh has taken a step to bring its expatriates closer to the country's democratic process, formally launching voter registration and smart National Identity (NID) card services for Bangladeshi citizens living in Canada.
The inauguration ceremony was held yesterday (11 September) at the Bangladesh High Commission in Canada, with Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin attending as the chief guest, according to a press release from the high commission.
"Democracy is inclusive when all citizens can take part, wherever they live," the CEC remarked, echoing his recent call to make voting rights more accessible for expatriates.
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He underlined that Bangladeshis abroad, who play a critical role in the country's developmental journey through remittances, investment and knowledge transfer, must also have a direct say in the country's future.
Nasir held a lively Q&A session with the participating expatriate community.
At the ceremony, the CEC also handed over smart NID cards to several registered Bangladeshi nationals living in Canada, symbolising the official launch of the service in Canada.
The new program of the Election Commission allows expatriates to register for voter enrolment and NIDs through Bangladesh missions abroad.
Canada has now joined that list.
As part of the program, Bangladeshis living in Canada can complete voter registration and NID enrolment at the high commission in Ottawa and the consulate general in Toronto.
Kazi Russel Pervez, the acting high commissioner, delivered the welcome address, and Deputy High Commissioner Dewan Hossne Ayub closed the event with a vote of thanks.
