A European Union (EU) delegation has expressed interest in understanding the electoral laws and regulations of Bangladesh.
The EU representatives held a meeting with the legal wing of the Election Commission (EC) at Nirbachan Bhaban at 3pm on Tuesday.
During the three-hour meeting, they sought information about all the laws and regulations related to elections in Bangladesh. The commission provided some legal documents and detailed explanations on the relevant topics. The EU delegation requested further information to get a better understanding.
The EU pre-election observation team is currently on a two-week visit to Bangladesh, on invitation by the Election Commission. The team, led by Chelleri Riccardo, has held meetings with various government ministers and political parties, including the ruling Awami League.
On July 11, they had a one-way meeting with the Election Commission.
Following the meeting, Election Commission Joint Secretary (Law) Mahbubar Rahman Sarkar informed reporters that the delegation had initially come to assess the possibility of sending observers from the EU for the upcoming 12th general election of Bangladesh.
During their visit, they inquired about the election processes, including the constitution, Representation of the People Order (RPO) and any amendments that had been made.
They also discussed what procedures foreign observers would have to follow, including their arrival, necessary equipment and other aspects.
When asked if the EU delegation raised any concerns about amendments to the RPO, Mahbubar replied in the negative.
Regarding support for the election, he mentioned that the EU delegation did not offer any specific assistance but inquired about the support they could provide.
They discussed logistical issues such as passport arrangements if they were to arrive two months before the election, as well as support at the airport and transportation of equipment if needed.