Ballot papers sent to 116 seats so far

Ballot papers so far reached 116 constituencies ahead of the February 12 national parliamentary election, Election Commission (EC), Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said on Thursday.

"As far as I know, we have already despatched ballot papers to 116 seats and handed them over to their respective returning officers," he said.

"The remaining ballot papers are currently in the process of distribution, and hopefully we will be able to deliver the rest by February 7," he added.

Regarding the delay, he said the ballot papers had to be reprinted in several constituencies at the last moment following court orders that reinstated candidacy of some aspirants.

The EC senior secretary shared the information while briefing reporters after a courtesy meeting between the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and a delegation of the European Union (EU) at the EC headquarters in the city's Agargaon area.

The delegation primarily sought updates on the commission's preparation for holding the election. They also inquired about any concerns of the EC regarding the polls.

The commission considered spread of rumours and disinformation during the election period as a major challenge.

The secretary said the EC was in discussion with Meta, adding that the commission does not support reducing internet speed. Instead, it requested Meta to remove sarcastic, aggressive or disinformation-based content.

On the law and order situation, the secretary said the army would be deployed for seven days, while the Ansar men would remain deployed for eight days, alongside the regular police force.

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