London, 9 June 2025:
In a compelling press conference at the London Bangla Press Club, the Expat Voting Rights Implementation Council UK made a passionate appeal to the Bangladesh government to ensure voting rights for over 15 million Bangladeshi expatriates around the world.
Speaking at the event, council convener Justice Mohammad Belayet Hossain said, “We are here today on behalf of one and a half crore Bangladeshi expatriates to demand the implementation of a fundamental civil right — the right to vote. For 54 years, we’ve heard promises, but no government has taken practical steps to implement it.”
Belayet Hossain praised the current non-partisan government led by Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, who took office following a mass uprising. “We welcome the government’s reform efforts and firmly believe this administration can take effective measures to realise the voting rights of expatriates,” he said.
Referring to Dr. Yunus’s upcoming visit to London at the invitation of the British Royal Family, Hossain called the trip a moment of pride. “This visit is not only a diplomatic honour, but it also offers a vital opportunity to communicate the demands of expatriates at the highest levels.”
The council highlighted the economic importance of the expatriate community, describing remittances as the “oxygen” of Bangladesh’s economy. Yet, they said, the community is denied the minimum democratic right — participation in national elections.
“There are many countries including the UK, several European nations, and Turkey, where expatriates can vote in their national elections,” said Hossain. “If the Bangladeshi government genuinely intends to act, such a system could be implemented quickly. It’s simply a matter of sincerity.”
Speakers also reminded the press of the historic role of expatriates during the 1971 Liberation War, noting how the UK diaspora mobilised global opinion and raised funds in support of independence. “Even during recent political movements, expatriates stood by the people by temporarily halting remittances in protest. The era of ignoring this community must end,” he added.
Addressing the media, Belayet Hossain said, “You are the voice of the people’s conscience. We urge you to help carry our demand to the government.”
The press conference ended with a call for unity among expatriates. “Those of us living abroad must stand together to secure our rights. Let’s remain cooperative with the government while being vocal about this just demand,” he urged.
The press briefing was chaired by Member Secretary Barrister Badre Alam Didar. A written statement was read by Joint Convener Barrister Nazir Ahmed. Other notable attendees included Joint Convener Sirajul Islam Shaheen, journalist Oliullah Noman, Barrister Iqbal Hossain, Dr. Shamsul Alam Golap, Dr. Mozammel Hossain, Abdul Munim Zahedi Carol, and journalist Touhidul Karim Mujahid. Following the formal statement, council leaders answered questions from journalists.
