CEC slams social media propaganda on postal ballot

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has expressed strong disapproval over the spread of confusion and misinformation on social media regarding the Election Commission’s new postal ballot initiative. 

Speaking at a briefing on Tuesday, January 20, at the Nirbachan Bhaban in Agargaon, Dhaka, the CEC emphasised that despite the online uproar, journalists have been instrumental in ensuring accurate information reaches the public.

"People are posting negative comments on social media without fully understanding the process," said Nasir Uddin. "But thanks to journalists, accurate information is getting out, and the people are being better informed. Without your support, we wouldn't have come this far."

The postal voting system, which aims to allow Bangladeshis living in 122 countries to cast their votes from abroad, has sparked both admiration and criticism. 

The CEC highlighted that if the initiative succeeds, it would place Bangladesh in the global spotlight. "No one has taken such a bold and risky step before. We are doing something that even many developed nations haven't managed to accomplish," he said, underscoring the historical significance of the move.

Acknowledging the challenges faced in implementing the postal voting system, Nasir Uddin stated that the Election Commission was entering uncharted territory. “We knew this would not be easy. We are working to weave together diverse postal systems and laws from across 122 countries. It’s a massive challenge, but our team is determined,” he added.

The CEC also addressed the concerns raised on social media, calling out those who criticised the initiative without understanding its complexity. 

He reassured the public that while mistakes may occur in any new venture, the intention behind the postal ballot system was pure and aimed at expanding voting access. "If journalists continue to clear up the confusion, we can make this process much smoother," he stated.

Foreign diplomats have expressed admiration for the initiative, with some predicting that if Bangladesh successfully implements the system, it will make history. “Our neighbouring countries have struggled with similar attempts. What we’ve achieved so far in just one year places us ahead of the curve,” the CEC remarked.

Nasir Uddin also spoke about the broader scope of the project, noting that the postal ballot system is not just for expatriates, but also for those unable to vote in their home areas due to work or imprisonment. "This is a step no one has dared to take before, and we are doing it with immense courage," he said, emphasising the commission’s commitment to inclusive and accessible elections.