Staff Reporter :
The Election Commission (EC) yesterday decided to use the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in six constituencies only during the 11th general election slated for December 30, amid huge criticism from the opposition alliance. The constituencies are in city corporation areas.
“After a marathon meeting, the Election Commission decided that the voting machines will be used fully in six constituencies only in six corporation areas. The constituencies will be selected through a lottery on November 28 in front of journalists” he said.
The secretary announced it while speaking at a press conference after the meeting on use of EVMs at the city’s Nirbachan Bhaban.
The meeting was presided over by Chief Election Commissioner KM Nurul Huda with other commissioners.
“A committee headed by Commissioner Rafiqul Islam is working on it” said Ahmed.
Responding to query, he said that EVMs will be used in an estimated 900 polling stations.
“Teams comprising regular election officials and members of the army will oversee the operation of EVMs. A three-day workshop for Signal Corps officers of the Bangladesh Army will start from Sunday, who will train more officers. The Signal Corps will also provide all kind of technical supports at the polling stations,” said the EC secretary.
Replying to a query on a BNP’s claim that the EC secretary attended a secret meeting of Awami League, he said, “It’s totally a false propaganda. I strongly condemn it.”
In reply to another question whether the Commission will take actions against this propaganda, he said, “I’ll place it in tomorrow’s (Sunday’s) Election Commission meeting, and the Commission will take decision.
