42,761 polling centers finalized for the 13th National Parliamentary Election; 16,000 fewer polling booths

At a press briefing held on Monday at the Election Commission building in Agargaon, Dhaka, Akhtar Ahmed said that 90 to 95 percent of election preparations have already been completed. In the upcoming election, voting will take place in 42,761 polling centers across 300 constituencies in all 64 districts of the country.

He stated, “In this election, there will be 115,137 polling booths for male voters and 129,602 for female voters, totaling 244,649 booths. On average, one booth will serve about 3,000 voters.”

Additionally, 14 temporary polling centers have been designated, consisting of around 12,000 booths. In comparison, the 12th Parliamentary Election, held on January 7, 2024, had 42,150 polling centers and 260,858 polling booths. Thus, while the number of centers has increased, the number of booths has decreased this time.

Akhtar Ahmed further mentioned, “The registration process for political parties and observer organizations is slightly behind schedule, but it will be completed within a week. There is no cause for concern; all preparations will be completed on time.”

He added that the registration of new political parties is in its final stage and is expected to be completed within the current week. Regarding electoral alliances, he said, “The issue is under consideration by the Ministry of Law, and the Commission will take a decision acceptable to all.”

Moreover, he clarified that the Election Commission has not yet received any official information regarding a referendum, stating, “So far, no data or proposal related to a referendum has reached the Commission.”

Preparations for city corporation elections and other electoral activities are also ongoing, with the EC working promptly to implement its plans efficiently.