The Bangladesh EC second day talks conducted with political parties on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at its Agargaon headquarters in Dhaka. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin chaired the sessions from 10:30am, focusing on voter safety and code of conduct enforcement. The meetings involved 12 registered parties in two shifts, building on Thursday’s inaugural discussions to foster fair polls.
These consultations matter across South Asia because they signal Bangladesh’s push for credible elections after years of controversy. A stable democratic process here could bolster regional confidence in governance, reduce migration pressures, and promote cross-border trade ties. Success might inspire similar reforms in neighbours like India and Pakistan, where electoral integrity remains a flashpoint.
CEC Nasir Uddin Electoral Dialogue Bangladesh Kicks Off Morning Session
CEC Nasir Uddin opened the Bangladesh EC second day talks political parties with a call for unity. He addressed leaders from six groups in the first session, running until noon. Parties included Gono Forum, Gono Front, Islamic Front Bangladesh, Islami Oikya Jote, Bangladesh Supreme Party, and Bangladesh Jatiya Party.
“We need your support in bringing voters to the polling stations and creating a safe environment,” Nasir Uddin stated. His words set a collaborative tone for the Bangladesh election consultations 12 parties series.
Participants shared views on logistical challenges. Leaders stressed neutral administration roles. Nasir Uddin responded by highlighting the EC’s referee-like impartiality. “You are the players. We want to act as true referees, but without your cooperation, it becomes difficult,” he added.
Data from the EC shows 54 registered parties qualify for involvement, excluding the suspended Awami League. Three new groups, National Citizens Party, Bangladesh Amjanagan Party, and another await final registration notices. This broad outreach aims to cover all stakeholders before the early December schedule announcement.
Bangladesh EC Second Day Talks with 12 Parties
The afternoon segment of the Bangladesh EC second day talks political parties resumed at 2:00pm. It featured Bangladesh Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal, Bangladesh National Awami Party, Trinamool BNP, Krishak Sramik Janata League, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, and Islami Andolan Bangladesh. Discussions wrapped by 4:00pm.
CEC Nasir Uddin reiterated priorities. “A fair election largely depends on the proper implementation of the code of conduct. If candidates comply with it properly, the election will be fair. In this regard, we seek your cooperation.” Party representatives nodded to these points, though specifics on their inputs remain limited at this stage.
The EC seeks fair polls cooperation parties through these forums. Officials noted progress on expatriate voting via postal ballots and smart cards for officials. Voter list finalisation stands at 98% completeness, per EC records. These steps address past criticisms of exclusion.
Broader Context of EC Seeks Fair Polls Cooperation Parties
The Bangladesh EC second day talks political parties form part of a multi-phase drive. It launched on November 13 with 12 parties: Liberal Democratic Party, Bangladesh Congress, Bangladesh Muslim League, National People’s Party, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolan, Jamiyate Ulamaye Islam Bangladesh, Communist Party of Bangladesh, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal, Bangladesher Samajtantrik Dal, Revolutionary Workers Party of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Nationalist Front, and Bangladesh Nationalist Movement.
Prior engagements included civil society on September 28, teachers, journalists, and experts. CEC Nasir Uddin electoral dialogue Bangladesh extends to all 53 active parties plus newcomers by month-end. “The Commission’s main objective is to hold the next election in a fair, acceptable environment. To achieve this, we need your cooperation,” Nasir Uddin emphasised.
Election expenditure caps emerged as a hot topic. Parties pushed for reductions to curb black money influence. Security deposits and campaign costs drew scrutiny too. Nasir Uddin assured reviews, citing the 2025 Code of Conduct’s strictures on posters and propaganda.
Challenges Highlighted in CEC Nasir Uddin Electoral Dialogue Bangladesh
Law and order topped agendas during the Bangladesh election consultations 12 parties. Representatives voiced fears over disruptions. “Ensure the highest security in every polling centre,” one leader urged, echoing first-day sentiments. The EC pledged robust enforcement, including AI misuse curbs via a dedicated cell.
Voter turnout strategies featured prominently. Nasir Uddin outlined plans for one million election staff to vote, a shift from prior exclusions. Expatriates gain postal access, potentially adding 1.2 million ballots. These reforms target 80% participation, up from 2024’s 75%.
The EC seeks fair polls cooperation parties on neutrality. “We want suggestions on how we can deliver a free and fair election and ensure a level playing field for all,” the CEC said. No major disputes surfaced.
Background: Evolution of Electoral Consultations
Bangladesh’s electoral landscape shifted post-2024 upheaval. The interim government prioritised reforms via the National Consensus Commission. The EC, under Nasir Uddin since November 2024, revived stakeholder dialogues. Early sessions with observers yielded inputs on digital verification and constituency cancellations.
The 13th parliamentary polls, slated for early February 2026, precede Ramadan. This timing avoids past boycotts. Registered parties total 56, including Jatiya Party. Suspension of Awami League stems from ongoing probes, per EC notices.
Historical data underscores urgency. 2024 turnout hit lows amid allegations. Current efforts, including the Bangladesh EC second day talks political parties, aim to reverse that. Budget allocations stand at BDT 5,000 crore for logistics, with training for 500,000 staff underway.
What’s Next: Third Day and Beyond
Monday’s third round targets 12 parties, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. Sessions continue through November. Post-dialogue, the EC plans a consolidated report for the December schedule reveal.
CEC Nasir Uddin electoral dialogue Bangladesh promises iterative feedback. Parties anticipate action on security rotations and cost caps. Full compliance monitoring begins January.
The Bangladesh EC second day talks political parties underscore a pivotal step toward inclusive governance. With cooperation secured, February’s vote could mark a democratic milestone, stabilising South Asia’s most populous delta nation.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, November 16th, 2025
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