Elections stand as a crucial prerequisite for the functioning of a democracy. A transparent and equitable electoral process serves as a definitive manifestation of the democratic spirit within any sovereign nation. Scheduled for January 7, 2024, Bangladesh, as a sovereign democratic entity, is poised to conduct its 12th national parliamentary election. The entire nation is immersed in a joyous atmosphere in anticipation of the upcoming electoral event.
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In preparation for the 12th national parliamentary election in Bangladesh, the Election Commission (EC) has granted permission to a total of 186 foreign observers, including journalists, to partake in the monitoring process. The commission is diligently undertaking measures essential for ensuring a free and credible election. Among these measures, a noteworthy step involves welcoming monitoring groups from various corners of the globe.
As per information from the Election Commission (EC) sources, foreign observers encompass a diverse group. The European Union contributes 4 representatives, while the United States is represented by 12 observers from IRI and NDI. Additionally, there are 6 observers from the South Asia Democratic Forum (SADF), 1 from South Korea’s HL Group, 2 from SNAS Africa, 2 from the Muslim Commission Nepal, and 1 from Birney Law PLLC, USA. Moreover, there are 2 observers from Africa House London, 1 from B Strategic Partners (British), 1 from the International Development Cooperation Organization (Japan), 1 from Mutash Create Research (Japan), and 1 from the Election Monitoring Forum (India). The delegation also includes a Sri Lankan Member of Parliament, an Australian researcher, and a representative from the Election Monitoring Forum, USA.
In addition, observers hail from various countries and organizations, such as Japan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Thailand, Poland, and Nepal. Notable entities represented include the British High Commission-Dhaka, the International Diplomatic Cooperative Organization (Thailand), Vitem Foundation Poland, Rabindra Bharti University, and the International Parliamentarians Congress.
Among the observers, there are individuals from American Global Strategies, a US businessman, and 17 representatives from the Embassy of Japan. The delegation also comprises individuals from the African Electoral Alliance, the British Parliament, India, SNAS Africa, the Government of Nepal, and other parties. An individual from Germany’s GBP International will specifically monitor the parliamentary elections.
A contingent of 59 journalists from various global media outlets is part of the observer group. This includes representatives from America, EU Reporter, Beatrice, Junge Freiheit (Germany), The Delhi Television Limited, The Yomiuri Shimbun (Japan), Azkal (India), Kyodo News (Japan), The Associate Press of India, Press Trust of India, ARD German Radio (Germany), Anand Bazar Patrika (India), and others.
Moreover, there are 5 representatives each from Japan’s Nike Inc., GG Press, and NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation). Additional observers include individuals from Nepal’s central online PTB Limited, DSTV Darjeeling (India), North Bengal News, The Telegraph, ANI, ABP News, Aajkal Publishers Limited, ABP Network, ANM News Pvt. Ltd., R, and Zee Media.
Furthermore, BBC News is represented by 4 individuals from India and the United States. Other media outlets include Arise News (Beatrice), Paris La Monde (France), Swedish Radio, Agence France Presse (AFP), Reuters, Al Jazeera (Britain), Australian Broadcasting Corporation, China Global Television Network, and Calcutta News Daily. The Election Commission has granted permission for a British freelancer and a Belgian journalist to observe the vote.
Secured January 7 polls
The counter-terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) chief has confirmed that no risk is there of any militant attacks centering on the upcoming election of Bangladesh.
Md Asaduzzaman, Commissioner and Chief of CTTC, reassured the public that there is no imminent threat of militancy, attacks, or any disruptive activities related to the upcoming 12th Jatiya Sangsad election on January 7. Speaking at the inauguration of a health and dental camp organized by the Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh (CRAB), Asaduzzaman stated that anti-militancy operations are ongoing, emphasizing the absence of any visible terrorist threats in connection with the national election.
He highlighted the smooth and secure campaign environment in Dhaka’s parliamentary constituencies, expressing optimism that the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) is well-prepared to prevent untoward situations. Asaduzzaman disclosed recent arrests by CTTC, assuring the public that there is currently no terrorist attack threat. He underscored the constitutional right to vote and affirmed the DMP’s readiness to ensure a safe and fear-free polling experience. In response to concerns about potential political violence, he warned of stern actions against those engaging in vandalism or anarchy, emphasizing the authorities’ capacity to apprehend and prosecute instigators of previous disturbances. Asaduzzaman made it clear that individuals involved in anarchism, vandalism, violence, or arson attacks will face consequences.
The commitment of both the Election Commission (EC) and the Awami League government to ensuring free and fair elections remains steadfast. A series of measures have been undertaken to guarantee the transparency and legitimacy of the upcoming election. Notably, the EC has implemented a ban on meetings and rallies from December 18th, 2023, to January 5th, 2024, as part of the election preparations.
The logistical framework for the election is extensive, with over 800,000 government officials overseeing 42,103 polling stations and 11,961,633 voters utilizing paper ballots. This meticulous setup is designed to facilitate a transparent electoral process. The presence of both foreign and local observers, operating under a comprehensive Code of Conduct, further reinforces the commitment to fairness and accountability. Addressing pre-poll irregularities, the Electoral Enquiry Committee plays a crucial role in ensuring a level playing field. Additionally, from December 29th, 2023, to January 10th, 2024, the deployment of the army is planned to enhance transparency during the election period.
Serious consequences await those who violate the electoral code, including the cancellation of voting at specific stations and the disqualification of candidates involved in violence. These stringent measures underscore the EC’s dedication to fostering a peaceful and impartial 12th parliament election that accurately represents the will of the people and is devoid of irregularities.
