EU 'keeping fingers crossed’ for free, credible Bangladesh election
Chief Observer of the EU Election Observation Mission Ivars Ijabs said that the mission’s role is to observe and report its findings after the conclusion of the mission
The European Union (EU) has stressed the need for security and a level playing field for all parties in Bangladesh, expressing hope that the upcoming national election, less than a week away, will be transparent, participatory, and credible.
"We are looking forward to it and keeping our fingers crossed for Bangladesh to have a truly transparent, participatory, and credible election next Thursday [12 February]," said Chief Observer of the EU Election Observation Mission Ivars Ijabs after a meeting today (5 February) with Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasiruddin at the Nirbachon Bhaban in Agargaon, Dhaka.
Ijabs added that the mission's role is to observe and report its findings after the conclusion of the mission. In response to a question regarding the legal and security framework, he said, "We want to see secure and safe elections in Bangladesh conducted according to the principles of law and order.
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"Equally important is the participatory dimension, ensuring the involvement of all groups of Bangladeshi citizens, including women and minorities. This is one of our key priorities."
Another key focus, he mentioned, is ensuring a level playing field for all candidates, with 60 long-term observers already deployed nationwide and short-term observers to be sent soon to monitor elections in every district.
