Dhaka, Mar 11 (V7N) – The Election Commission (EC) has recommended proxy voting for expatriate Bangladeshis in the 13th National Parliament election, citing the ineffectiveness of postal ballots.

Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah stated that one crore voters have previously been unable to vote despite having the right. To ensure participation, the EC is considering proxy voting, allowing voters to authorize a trusted nominee to cast their vote.

Speaking to journalists at the Election Commission building on Tuesday, Sanaullah said,
"If we want to fulfill the expectations of expatriate voters, we will have to move toward proxy voting."

He also mentioned that the EC is evaluating multiple options, including postal ballots, online voting, and proxy voting. If political parties and stakeholders agree, the EC will amend laws to facilitate the process.

On Monday, the EC announced plans to develop an app where expatriates can register and select a nominee to vote on their behalf. This system aims to increase participation and ensure voting rights for Bangladeshis abroad in the next national elections.

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