The interim government is set to provide election- and referendum-related information through the national helpline 333 ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the 2026 referendum.
Once launched, citizens can access election and referendum information by pressing “9” on the helpline’s interactive voice response (IVR) menu.
As part of preparations, a workshop was held on Thursday at the ICT Tower in Dhaka. Organized by a2i (Access to Information), the session focused on equipping helpline agents with the skills and knowledge needed to deliver accurate, timely election-related information.
Speakers included Election Commission (EC) Additional Secretary KM Ali Newaz, a2i Project Director (Joint Secretary) Md Abdur Rafiq, a2i Joint Project Director (Joint Secretary) Md Rashidul Mannaf Kabir, EC Joint Secretary Md Abdul Halim Khan, and a2i Head of Program Management Abdullah Al Fahim. EC and a2i officials also conducted training for helpline 333 agents.
Highlighting the importance of reliable information, KM Ali Newaz said: “Having information alone is not sufficient. Agents must be able to provide accurate, verified, and up-to-date information based on authentic sources. Any misinformation or incomplete information may undermine public trust and negatively affect the transparency of the electoral process.” He stressed the need for close coordination between the EC and helpline 333.
a2i Project Director Md Abdur Rafiq said timely and credible information is essential for free, fair, neutral, and participatory elections. He noted that demand rises during election periods for details on voter lists, voting procedures, polling center locations, codes of conduct, facilities for voters with disabilities, and emergency instructions. He warned that failure to ensure correct information flow could lead to confusion, rumors, and misinformation.
a2i Joint Project Director Md Rashidul Mannaf Kabir emphasized that effective election-time information services require verified data, updated information management, and clear citizen communication strategies.
EC Joint Secretary Md Abdul Halim Khan guided agents on election and referendum do’s and don’ts, codes of conduct, and responding to citizens’ common queries in simple, accessible language.
a2i Head of Program Management Abdullah Al Fahim said the workshop would help helpline 333 agents deliver election-related information with efficiency, transparency, and responsibility, increasing public awareness while reducing the risk of misinformation.
According to organizers, the service will allow citizens to access information on voter details, voting rules and procedures, polling center locations, codes of conduct for candidates and campaigners, voting information for expatriates, and special facilities for persons with disabilities, elderly voters, and women. It will also provide guidance on emergency situations, special directives in specific areas, relevant contact numbers, and the Election Commission’s designated apps—Postal Vote BD and Smart Election Management BD.
