CEC Declares Upcoming Election a 'Historic Turning Point' for Genuine Democracy and Reform

The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), AMM Nasir Uddin, announced the election schedule, calling the upcoming poll a "unique and historic turning point" aimed at restoring genuine democratic practices and rebuilding public confidence.

In an address to the nation, he emphasized that this election is significant for two reasons: the restoration of true democratic processes and enabling decisions on essential reforms.

For the first time in the country's history, the parliamentary election and a national referendum will be held on the same day. Major initiatives were undertaken to ensure transparency and accuracy in the voter list. 45 lakh previously excluded or inactive voters were added. Over 21 lakh deceased voters were removed. Awareness campaigns significantly narrowed the gender gap in voter registration.

An amendment to the law allows the Commission to determine the voter registration cutoff date (instead of the previous fixed date of January 1), enabling all eligible young citizens up to October 31, 2025, to be included.

As of November 18, the total number of voters is 12,76,95,183. Male voters: 6,48,14,907 and Female voters: 6,28,79,042

Legal and structural reforms, including appropriate amendments to the Representation of the People Order and the code of conduct, have been made to increase accountability. These were based on recommendations from the Election System Reform Commission and stakeholder consultations. The revised postal voting system will allow several groups to participate for the first time that Overseas Bangladeshi voters (remittance warriors), Voters in legal custody also Government employees and individuals involved in the election process working outside their constituencies.

The CEC stressed that the election demands a "culture of respectful competition" among political parties and offers all state institutions a chance to prove their professionalism and regain public trust.