Bangladesh
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 119(1-GA)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:08:45 UTC
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
c. The Electoral Management Body
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 119(1-GA)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:09:08 UTC
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
d. Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:45:30 UTC
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
c. Number of registered voters
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 121
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:10:30 UTC
BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
d. Electoral management body
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 119(1-GA)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:10:49 UTC
BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
c. Changes in numbers of registered voters
g. Changes in administrative boundaries
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:45:30 UTC
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Hanna Berheim
b. Job Title: Research Assistant
c. Organisation: International IDEA
Last updated: 2006-11-27 15:43:10 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
Comments: C:142 "Power to amend any provision of the Constitution [(1)] Notwithstanding anything contained in this Constitution - (a) any provision thereof may by [amended by way of addition, alteration, substitution or repeal] by Act of Parliament: Provided that- (i) no Bill for such amendment 91* * shall be allowed to proceed unless the long title thereof expressly states that it will amend a provision of the Constitution; (ii) no such Bill shall be presented to the President for assent unless it is passed by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total number of members of Parliament; (b) when a Bill passed as aforesaid is presented to the President for his assent he shall, within the period of seven days after the Bill is presented to him assent to the Bill, and if he fails so to do he shall be deemed to have assented to it on the expiration of that period. (1A) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), when a Bill, passed as a aforesaid,, which provides for the amendment of the Preamble or any provisions of articles 8, 48, 56 or this article, is presented to the President for assent, the President, shall within the period of seven days, after the Bill is presented to him, cause to be referred to a referendum the question whether the Bill should or should not be assented to. (1B) A referendum under this article shall be conducted by the Election Commission, within such period and in such manner as may be provided by law, amongst the person enrolled on the electoral roll prepared for the purpose of election to [Parliament]. (1C) On the day on which the result of the referendum conducted in relation to a Bill under this article is declared, the President shal be deemed to have- (a) assented to the Bill, if the majority of the total votes cast are in favour of the Bill being assented to; or (b) Withheld assent therefrom, if the majority of the total votes cast are not in favour of the Bill being assented to.] 1D) Nothing in clause (1C) shall be deemed to be an expression of confidence or no-confidence in the Cabinet or Parliament] (2) Nothing in article 26 shall apply to any amendment made under this article.]"
Source: The Constitution of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, article 142; the Referendum Act No. 25 of 1991
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:05:55 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
Comments: C:142 "Power to amend any provision of the Constitution [(1)] Notwithstanding anything contained in this Constitution - (a) any provision thereof may by [amended by way of addition, alteration, substitution or repeal] by Act of Parliament: Provided that- (i) no Bill for such amendment 91* * shall be allowed to proceed unless the long title thereof expressly states that it will amend a provision of the Constitution; (ii) no such Bill shall be presented to the President for assent unless it is passed by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total number of members of Parliament; (b) when a Bill passed as aforesaid is presented to the President for his assent he shall, within the period of seven days after the Bill is presented to him assent to the Bill, and if he fails so to do he shall be deemed to have assented to it on the expiration of that period. (1A) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), when a Bill, passed as a aforesaid,, which provides for the amendment of the Preamble or any provisions of articles 8, 48, 56 or this article, is presented to the President for assent, the President, shall within the period of seven days, after the Bill is presented to him, cause to be referred to a referendum the question whether the Bill should or should not be assented to. (1B) A referendum under this article shall be conducted by the Election Commission, within such period and in such manner as may be provided by law, amongst the person enrolled on the electoral roll prepared for the purpose of election to [Parliament]. (1C) On the day on which the result of the referendum conducted in relation to a Bill under this article is declared, the President shal be deemed to have- (a) assented to the Bill, if the majority of the total votes cast are in favour of the Bill being assented to; or (b) Withheld assent therefrom, if the majority of the total votes cast are not in favour of the Bill being assented to.] 1D) Nothing in clause (1C) shall be deemed to be an expression of confidence or no-confidence in the Cabinet or Parliament] (2) Nothing in article 26 shall apply to any amendment made under this article.]"
Source: The Constitution of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, article 142; the Referendum Act No. 25 of 1991
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:05:55 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 15:57:16 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 15:57:16 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 15:57:16 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 15:57:16 UTC
DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: The Referendum Act No. 25 of 1991
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:05:55 UTC
DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:05:55 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:05:55 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:05:55 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:05:55 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:12:47 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Comments: C:142 "Power to amend any provision of the Constitution [(1)] Notwithstanding anything contained in this Constitution - (a) any provision thereof may by [amended by way of addition, alteration, substitution or repeal] by Act of Parliament: Provided that- (i) no Bill for such amendment 91* * shall be allowed to proceed unless the long title thereof expressly states that it will amend a provision of the Constitution; (ii) no such Bill shall be presented to the President for assent unless it is passed by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total number of members of Parliament; (b) when a Bill passed as aforesaid is presented to the President for his assent he shall, within the period of seven days after the Bill is presented to him assent to the Bill, and if he fails so to do he shall be deemed to have assented to it on the expiration of that period. (1A) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), when a Bill, passed as a aforesaid,, which provides for the amendment of the Preamble or any provisions of articles 8, 48, 56 or this article, is presented to the President for assent, the President, shall within the period of seven days, after the Bill is presented to him, cause to be referred to a referendum the question whether the Bill should or should not be assented to. (1B) A referendum under this article shall be conducted by the Election Commission, within such period and in such manner as may be provided by law, amongst the person enrolled on the electoral roll prepared for the purpose of election to [Parliament]. (1C) On the day on which the result of the referendum conducted in relation to a Bill under this article is declared, the President shal be deemed to have- (a) assented to the Bill, if the majority of the total votes cast are in favour of the Bill being assented to; or (b) Withheld assent therefrom, if the majority of the total votes cast are not in favour of the Bill being assented to.] 1D) Nothing in clause (1C) shall be deemed to be an expression of confidence or no-confidence in the Cabinet or Parliament] (2) Nothing in article 26 shall apply to any amendment made under this article.]"
Source: The Constitution of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, article 142
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:01:59 UTC
DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
l. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:01:59 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
l. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:01:59 UTC
DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
a. Always
Comments: C:142 "Power to amend any provision of the Constitution [(1)] Notwithstanding anything contained in this Constitution - (a) any provision thereof may by [amended by way of addition, alteration, substitution or repeal] by Act of Parliament: Provided that- (i) no Bill for such amendment 91* * shall be allowed to proceed unless the long title thereof expressly states that it will amend a provision of the Constitution; (ii) no such Bill shall be presented to the President for assent unless it is passed by the votes of not less than two-thirds of the total number of members of Parliament; (b) when a Bill passed as aforesaid is presented to the President for his assent he shall, within the period of seven days after the Bill is presented to him assent to the Bill, and if he fails so to do he shall be deemed to have assented to it on the expiration of that period. (1A) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (1), when a Bill, passed as a aforesaid,, which provides for the amendment of the Preamble or any provisions of articles 8, 48, 56 or this article, is presented to the President for assent, the President, shall within the period of seven days, after the Bill is presented to him, cause to be referred to a referendum the question whether the Bill should or should not be assented to. (1B) A referendum under this article shall be conducted by the Election Commission, within such period and in such manner as may be provided by law, amongst the person enrolled on the electoral roll prepared for the purpose of election to [Parliament]. (1C) On the day on which the result of the referendum conducted in relation to a Bill under this article is declared, the President shal be deemed to have- (a) assented to the Bill, if the majority of the total votes cast are in favour of the Bill being assented to; or (b) Withheld assent therefrom, if the majority of the total votes cast are not in favour of the Bill being assented to.] 1D) Nothing in clause (1C) shall be deemed to be an expression of confidence or no-confidence in the Cabinet or Parliament] (2) Nothing in article 26 shall apply to any amendment made under this article.]"
Source: The Constitution of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, article 142
Last updated: 2006-11-27 15:59:05 UTC
DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 15:59:05 UTC
DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:00:04 UTC
DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 16:00:04 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Bangladesh Election Commission
b. Full Address Sher-e-Bangla Nagar; Dhaka
c. Telephone 880-2-8115631, 8114176
d. Facsimile 880-2-8111030
e. Email becs@bol-online.com
f. Website Address www.ecs.gov.bd
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Mr. Justice M. A. Aziz, Bar at Law, Chief Election Commissioner
h. Information Officer Mr. Asaduzzaman
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections Bangla
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:44:10 UTC
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
c. Local level
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:41:12 UTC
EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
f. Other
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:41:12 UTC
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
d. A national government department
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:41:12 UTC
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
d. A national government department
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:36:56 UTC
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
b. For a term of _________ years
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:44:10 UTC
EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
d. Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:44:10 UTC
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: $1121000 (Approximate)
Comments: Approximately 1 121 000 USD
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:37:53 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 7
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:36:56 UTC
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
b. Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: The president is the Head of State and elected by the National Parliament.
Source: Constitution; Part IV; Annexure 1; Article 48(1)
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
d. Leader of the party which forms the government becomes Head of Government
Source: Constitution; Part IV; Annexure 2; Article 56(3)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 12:26:48 UTC
ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes
Comments: The President is elected by Chamber 1.
Source: Constitution; Part IV; Annexure 1; Article 48(1)
Last updated: 2004-10-06 14:06:11 UTC
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
a. One chamber
Source: Constitution; Part V; Annexure 1; Article 65(1)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 12:27:28 UTC
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
a. Plurality (FPTP)
Source: Constitution; Part V; Annexure 1; Article 65(2)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 12:27:48 UTC
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
k. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
h. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
a. National level
Source: Constitution; Part V; Annexure 1; Article 65(2)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 12:29:09 UTC
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
d. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
a. Yes
Source: Constitution; Part V; Annexure 1; Article 65(3)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 12:29:47 UTC
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
b. Women - proportion of total seats (%) 15%
Source: Constitution; Part V; Annexure 1; Article 65(3)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 12:30:17 UTC
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
c. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable X
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: a.) After five years. This length is not specified in the Constitution.
Source: Constitution; Part V; Article 72(3) Constitution; Part VII; Article 123(3)
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
e. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:35:13 UTC
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Annexure 1; Article 119
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later
Comments: The 14th Amendment.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 119
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
c. Not applicable
Comments: The President is elected by Chamber 1 for a five year term.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
a. Judiciary
Comments: The High Court Division
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 125(2) Representation of People Order; Chapter V; Article 49(2)
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 118(1)
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
Comments: Not directly mentioned in the Constitution.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:39:22 UTC
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
h. Not applicable
Comments: There are no allocation of free broadcast time or free printed advertisement space to political parties.
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:17:40 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)
Comments: a.) Support by 2 qualified electors of the constituency.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:41:55 UTC
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: a.) 25 years.
Source: Constitution; Part V; Article 66(1)
Last updated: 2004-10-05 14:33:02 UTC
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
k. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: a.) 35 years.
Source: Constitution; Part IV; Article 48(4)
Last updated: 2004-10-06 13:58:35 UTC
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
b. Detention
h. Bankruptcy or Insolvency
k. Mental health problems
l. Multiple Citizenship
Source: Constitution; Part V; Article 66(2)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:24:34 UTC
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
j. Physical health problems
k. Mental health problems
Source: Constitution; Part IV; Article 53(1)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:25:18 UTC
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
e. In both presidential and legislative elections
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: a.) Support by 2 qualified electors of the constituency. b.) 10,000 takas.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:41:55 UTC
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email- trecs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:28:12 UTC
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
Comments: a.) There has to be a "proposer", a person who testifies the candidate's credentials. Please note that the President is elected by Chamber 1.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:41:55 UTC
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
c. Indirect
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:41:55 UTC
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
d. Not Applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
e. Not Applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
f. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
e. Not Applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
j. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:52:03 UTC
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 118(1)
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:41:30 UTC
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
s. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
s. Not Applicable
Comments: The President is elected by Chamber 1.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
a. At the polling stations
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
i. Tallying by party representative and/or observers as votes are being called out
l. Counted by hand
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:54:33 UTC
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
a. Polling centre (several polling stations in same building)
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
a. Sub-district level
b. District level
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
b. By telephone
c. By fax
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
i. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
k. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
e. Court order
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 125(b)
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:54:33 UTC
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
g. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
a. National Election Management body
c. Local Election Management body
Comments: i.) A recount has yet not taken place. If the Court gives order then the polling agents of the voting centers will conduct the recount.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
a. Yes
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
a. hours: X
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Comments: The Election Commission formally declares the results through the Gadget Notification. It's a public notice system through which the public is informed officially.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:53:45 UTC
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
a. National Electoral Management Body
g. NGOs/ Civic Organizations
i. Media
Comments: Not mentioned in the Constitution but it is a practice during the election.
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:46:12 UTC
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
b. Election time only
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:46:12 UTC
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
a. No
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:46:12 UTC
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
d. Music and theater
e. Public meetings
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:46:12 UTC
VE05 What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
b. Media advertisement
e. Public meetings
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:46:12 UTC
Voting Operations
VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
a. Yes
Source: Constitution; Part VII; Article 120
Last updated: 2004-08-20 13:35:17 UTC
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
f. Diplomatic staff
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
a. Embassies
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
a. No
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
f. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
g. Not applicable
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes, the maximum capacity is: 3000
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 7
b. The largest polling station: 25
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC
VO13 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the presiding polling officer for the most recent national elections?
a. hours: 3
Comments: 3 days
Source: S. M. Asaduzzaman; Public Relations Officer; Bangladesh Election Commission. Email: precs@dhaka.net
Last updated: 2006-05-23 19:49:17 UTC