EU assures support, stresses reforms ahead of polls: CEC

The European Union (EU) has reiterated its support for Bangladesh’s upcoming parliamentary elections while emphasising the importance of reforms to ensure a transparent and credible process.

The EU stressed the need for reforms to strengthen the independence of the Election Commission, a principle they fully support. While they acknowledge that the time for reforms is short, they assured us of their willingness to assist throughout the process.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin said this after a meeting with an EU delegation, led by Ambassador Michael Miller, at the Election Commission Secretariat in Dhaka on Tuesday.

The EU delegation discussed a wide range of issues, including voter registration, election timelines, campaign expenditure regulations and the role of international observers. They also inquired about the commission’s preparations, from the voter list update to election administration, he added.

Nasir Uddin said, “The EU is prepared to send representatives to conduct a ‘needs assessment’ and identify areas where they can assist. They also expressed interest in deploying observers during the elections if requested.”

Addressing concerns about election reforms, the CEC emphasised the constitutional independence of the Election Commission, saying, “The Election Commission’s independence must remain uncompromised. This is the foundation for a free and fair election. The EU appreciated our commitment to maintaining this principle.”

EU Ambassador Michael Miller expressed optimism, saying, “We came to discuss Bangladesh’s upcoming elections and extend our support. We also inquired about the interim government’s reform initiatives and how the EU can assist in ensuring transparent elections that meet international standards.”

The CEC added that no specific election date was discussed but hinted that polls are likely to take place in December 2024 or early 2025, depending on the progress of reforms.

Election date hinges on government decision: EC Sanaullah

Meanwhile, Election Commissioner Brigadier General (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah clarified that the election date is determined by the government, not the Election Commission.

Speaking during a voter list update programme at Thakurgaon Road Degree College, he said, “We are preparing for national elections in December, but the final date depends on discussions between the government and political parties.”

Sanaullah assured that the upcoming election process would be transparent, with reforms implemented across all levels of election management, including at the district and upazila levels.

He emphasised the importance of a transparent and accurate voter list, stating that the final list is expected to be ready by 2 March 2025, after addressing complaints through door-to-door updates.

The election commissioner highlighted efforts to eliminate fake voter registrations, duplicate entries, and foreign nationals from the voter list.

“In the future, voter registration may become digital, enabling people to apply from home,” he added.

During the event, Sanaullah provided guidelines to data collectors and supervisors involved in the voter update process and reiterated the commission’s commitment to delivering a fair, acceptable and credible election.