BNP Demands Explanation from EC Over Alleged Irregularities in Postal Ballots for Expats

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the postal ballot process for overseas voters and demanded clarification from the Election Commission (EC).

A BNP delegation met with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) at the Election Commission office in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Thursday afternoon to present their concerns. After the meeting, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed spoke to reporters. He was accompanied by BNP Chairperson’s advisor and former senior secretary Ismail Zabiullah and senior Supreme Court lawyer Kaiser Kamal.

Salahuddin Ahmed said the party was alarmed about the postal ballots sent to expatriates, claiming they were not prepared or distributed properly. “Those responsible for preparing, sending, or overseeing these postal ballots must explain themselves. The EC must provide a clear explanation,” he said.

He alleged multiple irregularities: “Videos circulating on social media show 200–300 ballots arriving at single households. In some areas, ballots are being seized; in others, voting has reportedly started early, though it is scheduled for the 22nd. In some cases, one voter number is being used by another. Many such irregularities have occurred.”

Emphasizing that this is the first time postal voting for expatriates is being conducted, Salahuddin said, “There may have been some mistakes, but in this case, BNP is being victimized. Certain actions appear to favor a specific political party, which is now evident. The EC must clarify these issues.”

He also expressed concerns about the voter slip guidelines, saying they should include the candidate’s name, symbol, and voter number to make participation easier. However, current rules prohibit using party names, symbols, or candidate photos. He suggested the EC could amend these rules.

Salahuddin further criticized violations of the election code of conduct, noting that while BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman postponed his trips following EC requests, other political leaders continue public campaigning without effective action from the EC.

He also claimed bias by some returning officers and said the BNP had submitted a proposal to the EC to allow candidate names and symbols on postal ballots within the country, expecting it to be considered reasonably.