Japan, UNDP hand over electoral materials to EC
The handover took place at the EC Secretariat in Dhaka under the UN’s BALLOT project, which is implemented in collaboration with Unesco and UN Women and supported by development partners working to strengthen transparent and inclusive electoral processes, according to a press release issued on Thursday (27 November).
The Election Commission (EC) has received a set of essential electoral materials intended for use on election day, provided by the Japanese government through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangladesh.
The handover took place at the EC Secretariat in Dhaka under the UN's BALLOT project, which is implemented in collaboration with Unesco and UN Women and supported by development partners working to strengthen transparent and inclusive electoral processes, according to a press release issued on Thursday (27 November).
Commenting on the support, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin highlighted the collective responsibility ahead. "What matters most is still ahead of us; the delivery of a transparent, neutral, credible, and fully participatory election. As we take the next steps, we will require continued support to build our capacity, and we are grateful to Japan, UNDP, and our partners for standing firmly with us in this national responsibility."
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Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Shinichi Saida reaffirmed Japan's longstanding support for democratic governance in Bangladesh. "This election is a significant step in shaping a new chapter for Bangladesh. Japan stands firmly beside Bangladesh in its democratic progress."
UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller underscored the significance of the partnership in advancing electoral readiness. "Today marks another important milestone in Bangladesh's election preparations. With Japan's support, we have already helped register nearly eight million voters, and this new handover reinforces the commitment to ensure one person, one vote."
The event was also attended by Susan Vize, head of office, UNESCO; Gitanjali Singh, UN women representative in Bangladesh; and Andres Castillo, chief technical adviser, UNDP.
The BALLOT project supports the EC in strengthening voter registration, enhancing institutional capacity, and promoting transparent electoral processes. The newly delivered materials are expected to support smooth and credible polling operations nationwide.
The UNDP and its partners reiterated their commitment to assisting Bangladesh in ensuring that the upcoming national election upholds the highest standards of integrity, participation, and public trust.
