International observers offer support to EC in Bangladesh's expat voting drive
An ‘inclusive’ or participatory election cannot be complete without the inclusion of expatriate voters, they say
A delegation of international observers and experts has expressed keen interest in assisting the Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh in its ongoing efforts to ensure the participation of expatriate Bangladeshis in the upcoming general elections.
The offer of cooperation was extended during a meeting on yesterday afternoon (8 July) at the Election Building in Agargaon with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin.
Attendees at the meeting included Owen Lipert, a representative from the international observer organisation "The Opposition International," American political economist Forrest Cookson, and international human rights activist and photographer Shahidul Alam, among others.
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Discussions focused on expatriate voter registration, safeguarding voting rights, polling procedures, and establishing effective communication with expatriates through information technology.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Shahidul Alam highlighted the significant interest among expatriates in contributing to the formation of a "new Bangladesh." He specifically mentioned those who had previously shown resistance by halting remittances during the July uprising and subsequently resumed them.
"We have come together to ensure the active role of expatriates in realising the dream of a new Bangladesh," he said, adding that "our Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has always emphasised the importance of involving expatriates in the election."
Shahidul further explained their role: "We aim to be a megaphone, through which the EC's message reaches expatriates. Often, due to a lack of information, they remain outside the process. Our goal is to raise awareness in that area."
The delegation members stated their belief that an "inclusive" or participatory election cannot be complete without the inclusion of expatriate voters. Consequently, they expressed their eagerness to participate in the campaign for expatriate registration.
The discussions also covered several proposals for expatriates, including the development of a digital outreach portal, the provision of information in simple language, assistance with registration, and the establishment of information centres at embassies.
