The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh is aiming to finalize a roadmap for the 13th national parliamentary election, tentatively scheduled for December this year. To prepare for this, the Commission plans to soon initiate dialogues with political parties, civil society members, election experts, and journalists.

On Monday, April 7, EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed told Somoy Sangbad that with only about eight months left before December, the Commission is working to complete all election-related preparations within that time. He emphasized the EC’s commitment to holding a free, fair, and inclusive election and stated that broad consultation is key to achieving that goal.

As part of the roadmap, the Commission is considering holding structured discussions with stakeholders in the near future. Akhtar Ahmed noted that gathering diverse opinions is essential for doing something meaningful and credible, which is what the EC intends.

Additionally, the EC is expected to propose a proxy voting system in the Representation of the People Order (RPO) to ensure the participation of expatriate voters in the upcoming election. Under the proposal, close relatives—including parents, siblings, spouses, and even nieces or nephews—could cast votes on behalf of expatriates. Each proxy voter would be allowed to vote on behalf of up to three individuals.