The Election Commission of Bangladesh has reintroduced the ‘No’ vote option in the upcoming 13th National elections and has decided to stop using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah made the announcement on Monday, 11 August 2025. The commission is also finalizing amendments to the Representation of the People Order (RPO), which include stricter rules on electoral irregularities and false declarations.
‘No’ Vote Returns for 13th National Elections
Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah has officially announced the return of the ‘No’ vote option for voters in the upcoming 13th National Parliament elections. This means voters will once again have the right to reject all candidates on the ballot if they do not wish to vote for any of them.
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In his words:
‘না’ ভোটের বিধান ফিরিয়ে আনা হয়েছে।
Translation: The provision for the ‘No’ vote has been brought back.
EVM System Abolished
Alongside this change, the Election Commission has decided to completely cancel the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the elections. Voting will return to the traditional paper ballot system to ensure transparency and trust in the electoral process.
Source: Channel 24
