The Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission, Evers Ijabs, has expressed his hope that the 13th National Parliament elections to be held on February 12 will be participatory and acceptable. He said this at a press conference held at a hotel in the capital on Tuesday morning.
Evers Ijabs said that the current electoral environment is overall positive and that these elections could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh’s democratic journey. In his words, the EU is conducting its observation activities based on common values such as democracy, rule of law and political accountability.
Regarding the security situation, he said that the EU mission is in regular contact with the security forces and the administration. They believe that the situation is under control overall, although there are risks in some areas.
Citing the participation of women and minorities as essential to making elections truly participatory, he said, ensuring the active participation of all communities is a prerequisite for a credible election.