No formal observers from US embassy: EC secretary
The US Embassy representatives informed us that they will independently observe the election situation in four regions
The Election Commission (EC) has said that no formal observers from the US Embassy will be deployed to monitor Bangladesh's upcoming national election.
EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed told reporters today (28 January) that an independent delegation from the United States, along with officials from the US Embassy, will visit polling areas to observe the voting environment, but not as "formal observers" enlisted by the Election Commission.
He made the remarks after a meeting with representatives of the US Embassy at the Election Commission building.
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"The US Embassy representatives informed us that they will independently observe the election situation in four regions—Dhaka, Sylhet, Chattogram and Khulna. We have no objection to this," Akhtar Ahmed said. "They said they would provide us with a list of the areas they plan to visit, and once we receive it, we will facilitate their movement as required."
Regarding restrictions on movement on election day, the EC secretary said the delegation sought clarification on the issue and was informed that the Ministry of Home Affairs would make the final decision on the duration and scope of any transport restrictions.
During the meeting, US representatives were also briefed on the design of ballot papers and the training provided to field-level election officials. Akhtar Ahmed said the delegation observed the overall process and commented that it was complex and demanding, but expressed satisfaction after reviewing the management arrangements.
Asked whether the US representatives raised any specific concerns about violations of the electoral code of conduct, the EC secretary said no complaints were lodged. "Rather, they wanted to know about our management system and how complaints are being addressed," he said.
He added that the EC informed them about its complaint management cell, inquiry committees and the role of judicial magistrates working at the field level. "Even today, a complaint came from a district, which we promptly forwarded to the returning officer for swift resolution," he noted.
On overall election security, Akhtar Ahmed said around 950,000 security personnel will be deployed nationwide at different levels to ensure a safe and orderly voting process.
