Biased Foreign Observers Will Not Be Welcomed Again: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin. File Photo

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin has made it clear that foreign observers who endorsed the last three national elections in a biased manner will not be allowed to monitor future polls.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Canadian High Commissioner Ajit Singh at the Election Commission office in Agargaon, the CEC said, “Why should we approve those who previously certified the last three elections as good and acceptable? We will only accept observers who are experienced, credible, and have monitored elections in various countries. Those who failed to be impartial will not be invited.”

During the meeting, the CEC briefed the Canadian envoy on the commission’s preparations for the upcoming national elections. He said the commission is committed to conducting free, fair, and inclusive polls, and has already begun work on key areas, including launching a nationwide voter awareness and education campaign.

The Canadian High Commissioner inquired about Bangladesh’s readiness to conduct the elections effectively. In response, the CEC expressed full confidence in the commission’s capability and outlined steps taken to ensure transparency, voter participation, and logistical preparedness.

One of the pressing concerns discussed was the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in elections. The CEC warned of its potential to distort the electoral process and noted that Canada had faced similar challenges. “We’ve sought Canada’s guidance and support in tackling AI-related threats. The Election Commission is taking this issue very seriously,” he said.

The CEC added that the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is also supporting the commission and has committed to stepping in if any gaps emerge in the process.

The meeting also covered voter inclusion, particularly women’s participation, and strategies to ensure voting access in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The Canadian envoy expressed interest in ongoing efforts to raise awareness in remote and marginalised regions.

When asked about foreign observer participation, the CEC confirmed that the European Union has been invited to monitor the elections and has been requested to coordinate their delegation in advance. “Since they will be sending observers from 28 countries, we welcomed their early confirmation,” he noted.

Canada, according to the CEC, has expressed willingness to support various aspects of the electoral process, including training for polling officers, observers, and agents. “They want to see free, fair, and credible elections, and we appreciate their constructive engagement,” he added.

The CEC concluded by saying that the Canadian High Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the Election Commission’s plans and commitment to holding transparent and inclusive elections.