Sun Jan 05 17:21:41 UTC 2025: ## Bangladesh to Tackle Voter Disenfranchisement Ahead of Upcoming Elections
**DHAKA, BANGLADESH – January 6, 2025** – Bangladesh’s Election Commission (EC) is embarking on a major voter list update initiative, aiming to restore voting rights to an estimated 180 million people who have been disenfranchised. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin announced the plan, stating the EC is committed to addressing this long-standing issue. A nationwide door-to-door data collection process will commence on January 20th.
The CEC emphasized the EC’s dedication to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, describing the upcoming process as a “marathon race.” This commitment follows widespread concerns regarding the fairness of previous elections held in 2014, 2018, and 2024, all of which are considered controversial. The newly formed EC, in office since November 21st, is investigating irregularities in these past elections as part of its reform efforts.
While the exact timing remains uncertain, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus recently suggested elections could be held between late 2025 and the first half of 2026, contingent upon the completion of the voter list update. CEC Nasir Uddin also stated that the ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League party could participate unless legally prohibited. The scale of the voter registration drive underscores the EC’s determination to address widespread concerns about electoral integrity and ensure broader participation in future elections.
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