September 24, 2025
DHAKA – The government has approved the procurement of 40,000 body-worn cameras for police personnel to ensure operational transparency and accountability during the upcoming national parliamentary elections.
The decision was endorsed today at a meeting of the advisers’ council committee on government procurement, chaired by Finance Adviser Salauddin Ahmed.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the adviser confirmed the approval and stressed the urgency of acquiring the equipment.
“These cameras are essential for the police. We have approved the proposal and must procure them swiftly,” he said.
Asked about the financial outlay, he declined to specify the cost, saying, “I won’t comment on the exact figure at this stage. The procurement will be handled through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which will guarantee both quality and cost-efficiency, avoiding the risks often associated with direct tenders.”
He clarified that the entire cost will be covered by the Government of Bangladesh, with funds allocated from the election budget under the Ministry of Finance.
“This is not for the Election Commission, it is for the police force. We will ensure no shortfall in resources critical to securing a fair and orderly election,” he added
Pressed on why procurement is being routed through UNDP if the government is funding it, the adviser explained,”The government is paying, but we must procure from the private sector. Using UNDP ensures transparency and safeguards against irregularities in the supply chain.”