Govt Plans 40,000 Bodycams for Feb Election Security

Representational photo

The interim government is preparing to deploy at least 40,000 body-worn cameras to bolster security at polling centres during the general election scheduled for February next year.

The plan was discussed at a high-level meeting on Saturday at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka, chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus. Home Adviser Lt General (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury and Special Assistants Khuda Baksh Chowdhury and Faiz Tayeb Ahmed were also present, according to a press release from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.

Special Assistant Faiz Tayeb Ahmed confirmed that the procurement process for the body-worn cameras—commonly known as bodycams—was in its final stage. He said the devices would significantly improve security at thousands of vulnerable polling centres.

“We aim to procure the bodycams by October so police officers can receive proper training, including on the devices’ AI features,” he added.

Bangladesh has approached three suppliers from Germany, China, and Thailand for the equipment. Police officers and constables will wear the cameras on their chests while on election duty.

Chief Adviser Prof Yunus instructed officials to expedite procurement and ensure comprehensive training for police personnel.

“We must guarantee complete security at all polling centres, no matter the cost. Our goal is to make the February election the most free, fair, and peaceful in the country’s history,” he said.

During the meeting, the Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant on Telecommunications and ICT Affairs also announced plans to launch an “Election App” for the upcoming vote. The app will provide voters with details on candidates, polling centre updates, and an interactive feature for lodging complaints.

Prof Yunus urged officials to fast-track the app’s release and ensure it is accessible to the nation’s more than 100 million eligible voters.