Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said the European Union (EU) did not send observers to the past three national elections in Bangladesh because those polls, held during Hasina’s tenure, were deemed unacceptable. He made the remarks on Sunday during a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, following a meeting between Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus and the EU ambassador.

Alam stated that the EU has now confirmed it will send a large observer mission for the upcoming election. He added that the current electoral environment offers a good level playing field, with no political party receiving extra privileges. He identified social media as a major challenge, warning that misinformation could be spread by members of the former government, though law enforcement agencies are fully prepared.

The press secretary also said both the government and the Election Commission believe the law and order situation remains stable. Discussions with the EU ambassador also covered the upcoming referendum, with the interim government possibly seeking a “yes” vote. Preparations are underway to ensure a fair, peaceful, and credible election.