The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh has announced it will not allow foreign observer groups that previously endorsed the country’s last three general elections as “free and fair” to monitor the upcoming national polls.
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A.M.M. Nasir Uddin made the statement on Tuesday following a meeting with Canadian High Commissioner Ajit Singh at the EC headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka.
“We have already invited the European Union to observe the upcoming elections, along with several other international observer groups that have prior experience in monitoring elections,” the CEC said. “However, those organizations or individuals who issued certificates claiming the last three elections were good — despite widespread controversy — will not be invited this time.”
The CEC further stated that the Canadian delegation inquired about election preparations, including voter awareness campaigns and training for election officials. The EC assured them of its commitment to organizing a free, fair, and credible election.
The issue of artificial intelligence (AI) misuse during elections was also discussed. According to the CEC, the Canadian delegation offered to share suggestions and best practices on managing AI-related threats to electoral integrity.
The CEC added that Canada expressed satisfaction with the current Election Commission’s efforts and pledged to continue its support for the electoral process in Bangladesh.
