Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has described the Election Commission’s decision to ban the carrying of mobile phones at polling stations as unreasonable, contradictory and poorly planned, ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum.
In a statement issued on Monday, the organisation said the blanket restriction contradicts the fundamental principles of transparency, accountability and the free flow of information, which are essential for a credible and participatory electoral process.
TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said that if the objective is to prevent the misuse of mobile phones and technology during voting, a targeted and rational regulatory approach is needed rather than a sweeping prohibition.
“Ignoring voters’ basic needs such as communication, personal security and access to emergency assistance by imposing a blanket ban is neither practical nor justified,” he said, adding that such a measure risks creating more problems than it solves.
According to TIB, the decision may disrupt the flow of information, reduce transparency and further weaken public confidence in the electoral process. It has also raised fresh concerns about ensuring equal opportunity and accountability within the election management system.
Dr Iftekharuzzaman noted that the restriction would pose serious practical obstacles for journalists, election observers and other stakeholders involved in the electoral process. He pointed out that a large number of journalists across the country rely primarily on mobile phones to capture and transmit news, photographs and videos in real time.
“During previous elections, many instances of irregularities, vote rigging and violence came to light largely through information and visual evidence recorded on mobile phones,” he said.
TIB warned that imposing excessive restrictions on mobile phone use could undermine media freedom and hinder the reporting of violence, intimidation and other electoral irregularities.
The organisation further expressed concern that the ban may increase risks related to voters’ personal safety and could create serious complications in the event of health-related emergencies at polling centres.
