Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission Ivars Ijabs has expressed optimism that Bangladesh will emerge as a dynamic state through a credible, transparent, peaceful, and fair election scheduled for February 12.
Speaking at a meeting with journalists at the Sylhet Press Club on Friday afternoon, Ijabs said the European Union maintains a long-standing and historic relationship with Bangladesh. He described the upcoming election as historically significant and vital for strengthening democratic institutions through the ballot box and forming a new parliament.
The briefing was held at the Aminur Rahman Rashid Auditorium of the Sylhet Press Club. Sylhet Press Club President Muktabis Un Noor and EU EOM Press Officer Everhard Liew were present, while the session was moderated by Press Club General Secretary Mohammad Serajul Islam.
Responding to journalists’ questions, Izabs emphasized that the election must be conducted in a peaceful, credible, and transparent manner. He said the EU EOM operates under three core principles—independence, neutrality, and non-interference. “We will observe the election process, but we will not certify the results. This election belongs solely to the people of Bangladesh,” he said, adding that the EU believes Bangladesh is capable of organizing an inclusive and fair election.
He said nearly 200 observers from EU member states, along with Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, will take part in the mission. The team includes an 11-member core group based in Dhaka, 56 long-term observers, 90 short-term observers, and observers from diplomatic missions, along with a European Parliament delegation.
