The European Union Election Observation Mission has called for a level playing field in Bangladesh’s upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, scheduled for February 12. Chief Observer Ivars Ijabs made the remarks on February 5 after meeting Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission building in Agargaon, Dhaka. He emphasized that the mission was not there to give advice but to observe the process, expressing hope for a free, fair, and impartial election.

Ijabs said the EU team had already deployed observers across various parts of the country and that more would arrive before election day. Discussions with the Election Commission focused on election challenges and ensuring fairness in the electoral field. The EU mission is currently monitoring the electoral environment in all 300 constituencies.

The Chief Observer noted satisfaction with the Election Commission’s activities and reiterated the EU’s commitment to observing the process to help ensure transparency and credibility in the upcoming vote.