The Election Commission has prepared a set of proposed changes to the Representation of the People Order (RPO) 1972, which would give it broader powers on polling day, add a “No Vote” choice for voters, and remove the provision for Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The proposals were finalised at a meeting held at the EC office in Agargaon, ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election. Briefing reporters afterward, Election Commissioner Brigadier General Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah said the definition of “law enforcement agencies” would be widened to include the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

He added that all sections relating to EVMs have been deleted, in line with the commission’s earlier decision not to use them in future polls.