Voting for the 13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum began simultaneously across the country at 7:30 am on Thursday. Voters were seen arriving at many polling stations well ahead of schedule. Voters of all ages, including men and women, have been waiting in line since morning to cast their votes.Voting is being held in 299 out of a total of 300 constituencies today. Voting in Sherpur-3 constituency has been suspended due to the death of a candidate.
According to information sent by representatives from different parts of the country, including the capital, voters arrived at the centers and took their positions before the centers opened. Long queues formed in front of the main gate in some places. The officials in charge completed preparations before the start of voting. After completing the formalities including preparing ballot papers, seals, and polling stations, voting began at the scheduled time.
Voting will continue until 4:30 pm. However, the votes of voters standing in line during the scheduled time will be accepted, said the concerned officials.
More than 127.7 million voters are getting the opportunity to participate in this election, held after the July mass uprising. 50 political parties registered with the Election Commission are participating. A total of 2,028 candidates are running. Of these, 273 are independent candidates.A referendum is being held today alongside the parliamentary elections. Voters are casting their votes for or against several fundamental changes to the constitution. Those involved say the outcome of the vote could have a significant impact on the country’s political structure and governance.
Members of various law enforcement agencies, including the armed forces, have been deployed inside and outside the centers to ensure security. Patrols have been strengthened in the electoral areas. Mobile courts led by magistrates are also on duty to avoid any untoward incidents.The Election Commission has already informed that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure fair and impartial voting. Presiding officers, assistant presiding officers and polling officers are on duty at each center. Observers are also on the ground.The competitive elections, held after a long period of controversial elections, are being closely watched by the countrymen as well as the international community. Ensuring a smooth voting and counting process is seen as a major challenge for those involved in the elections.
