On the day of the election, I had the chance to visit approximately 15 polling stations starting early in Dhaka-14 even before the official polling commencement at 7:30 am. By 7:15 am, there were nearly 200 voters already lined up outside, and this number quickly grew to about 300 within 45 minutes—a noticeable development.
The most prominent aspect was the tranquil environment. Voters were autonomously casting their votes without any disturbances. Additionally, there was a significantly heightened presence of security personnel, surpassing what I had witnessed in previous election cycles. The security deployment was robust and well-coordinated.
Subsequently, I visited multiple polling stations in Dhaka-13 where the voter turnout was relatively lower but still notable, and the voting process appeared orderly and peaceful. Some stations had two voting booths to accommodate the dual ballots for candidates and the referendum, ensuring efficient voting within the designated timeframe. The entire voting process, including voter verification, application of indelible ink, and ballot issuance, was diligently carried out by the temporary polling staff without any observed irregularities.
Despite concerns of potential violence and law enforcement challenges on election day, the reality on the ground depicted a different narrative. This election witnessed an unprecedented presence of law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh’s history. The Bangladesh Army, empowered with magistracy authority, played a pivotal role in instilling public confidence. Their visible patrols and active engagement helped dispel rumors and alleviate anxieties, contributing to a sense of security among the populace.
While isolated incidents of violence and intimidation occurred, they did not significantly impact the overall electoral process. The majority of voters were able to cast their ballots independently, resulting in a peaceful and credible election outcome.
Although the voter turnout of 59.44 percent was lower compared to previous elections, it is crucial to consider the unique challenges faced in this election. The loyalty of voters to established political parties and the prevalent fear of violence influenced the overall turnout. Despite these factors, the turnout percentage falls within the internationally accepted range and does not undermine the election’s credibility.
Regarding allegations of improper vote counting, personal observations and feedback from colleagues indicated transparency in the counting process at various centers. The presence of observers, polling agents, and journalists ensured accountability and transparency throughout the counting process.
In conclusion, while some have hailed this election as the best in history, it is essential to maintain a measured perspective. Given the challenging circumstances and uncertainties surrounding the election, it can be regarded as one of the best in Bangladesh’s history. Moving forward, it is imperative to address shortcomings, implement electoral reforms, and prepare for future elections to further institutionalize the electoral process in Bangladesh.
