Bangladesh set to welcome 80 foreign observers

12th parliamentary election | Representational image

The 12th national parliamentary elections in Bangladesh, scheduled for January 7, will be observed by at least 80 individuals from 12 countries, with the potential for more observers to join in the lead-up to the election. Additionally, approximately 50 journalists from various nations are set to cover the event, as confirmed by officials from the Election Commission (EC) secretariat and the foreign ministry.

The EC has actively invited international observers and journalists, receiving 227 applications—156 from observers and 71 from journalists. Countries such as Russia, China, Japan, India, Nigeria, Gambia, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and Mauritius are represented among the finalized group of 80 observers. These individuals are participating either through official invitations or on their initiative.

An official spoke to Prothom Alo, revealing that foreign observers would fall into three categories: state, institutional, and individual. State category observers include representatives from the election commissions of Russia, India, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. Institutional observers will come from the European Union, National Democratic Institute (NDI), International Republican Institute (IRI), Commonwealth, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Arab Parliament, and African Electoral Alliance.

Bangladesh is set to cover all necessary expenses, such as food and accommodation, for the invited observers. Those who come independently will be responsible for their costs.

The total number of foreigners who have applied for observation roles with the election commission is 227, including some foreign diplomats based in Bangladesh.

On November 1, the foreign ministry sent out letters to Bangladeshi missions worldwide, inviting international observers and journalists to the 12th national polls.