President casts vote thru postal ballot

Mohammed Shahabuddin, President of Bangladesh

Today, President Mohammed Shahabuddin actively participated in the upcoming 12th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) elections by casting his vote via postal ballot, set for January 7. He emphasized the importance of voting, calling on fellow citizens to exercise their democratic rights.

"After voting this noon at the Credential Hall of Bangabhaban, I encourage everyone to vote and inspire others to do the same," President Shahabuddin stated to the media.

Joining him, Dr. Rebeka Sultana, the President's wife, also utilized postal voting as they are registered in their native Pabna.

President Shahabuddin reiterated, "Voting is not just a right but a duty for every citizen."

He expressed optimism about the upcoming election, anticipating a peaceful and celebratory atmosphere with inclusive participation.

Under Article 27 of the Representation of the People Order (RPO), the President and other designated individuals can vote via postal ballot. This provision extends to imprisoned or legally detained voters, Bangladeshi expatriates, and polling officials in the forthcoming elections, as per the Election Commission Secretariat.

Since the 9th Jatiya Sangsad Election, provisions have been in place for four categories of voters who can't reach polling stations to vote via postal ballots.

The Election Commission (EC) has been actively promoting postal ballot voting for this year's parliamentary elections, including directives to Bangladeshi missions abroad to encourage this method, as discussed in a recent inter-ministerial meeting.

Those interested in postal voting must apply to their constituency's returning officer for a postal ballot, providing their name, postal address, and voter list serial number, as outlined in an EC notification.

The Returning Officers will account for postal votes within the deadline, incorporating them into the final election results.

The EC is keen on highlighting the significance of postal ballots, demonstrated by the President's participation.

Present at the occasion were President's Office Secretary Sampad Barua, Military Secretary Major General SM Salah Uddin Islam, Press Secretary Md Joynal Abedin, and Secretary (attached) Md Wahidul Islam Khan.