The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh organized a mock voting exercise in Dhaka on Saturday to prepare for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and the national referendum, both scheduled to be held on the same day. The mock voting took place at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar Government High School from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., allowing 510 registered male and female voters to participate. EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed stated that the exercise aimed to enhance efficiency and ensure smooth management of the actual election process. The simulation replicated real election conditions, including polling officers, agents, and voters, though the ballot papers contained no party names, candidates, or symbols. Separate polling booths were arranged for men and women, and law enforcement personnel were deployed for security. Participants described the experience as useful but noted that more publicity about the referendum was needed to raise awareness among voters.