Dhaka-17 by-polls 15pc voter turnout likely: EC Alamgir

Staff Reporter :
Election Commissioner Md Alamgir said the voter turnout in Dhaka-17 by-polls might be a maximum of 15%.
“Voter turnout in Dhaka-17 by-polls is very low. It is estimated to be around 12per cent-13per cent or a maximum of 14 per cent-15 per cent after considering all calculations,” the election commissioner said while speaking to reporters after the by-elections ended on Monday.

When asked if the commission is satisfied with the low voter turnout, EC Alamgir responded by emphasizing the importance of the Election Commission ensuring a peaceful voting process.

“There could be various reasons why voters did not turn out. But without having concrete information, it would be inappropriate to make assumptions or draw conclusions,” he said.
Replying to a question whether the election was fair as an independent candidate was attacked during the poll on Monday, EC Alamgir said, “Voting took place in 124 centres, and it cannot be concluded that the overall condition of the centres was unfavourable.”

According to the Election Commission, the voter turnout was low as the tenure of the current parliament is nearing an end with national elections slated for the end of the year or the beginning of next year.

Another reason the election commission said the voter turnout was low because the seat is in a rather posh area, adding there was heavy rain in some areas this morning.
After observing the by-polls via CCTV camera, Election Commissioners Ahsan Habib and Rasheda Sultana told reporters that the election took place in a free and fair environment.