The Election Commission (EC) has extended the application period for foreign observers and journalists to observe the 12th Parliament elections. The time has been extended till December 7. Earlier, observers and journalists from 12 countries and 4 organizations have applied to observe the elections in Bangladesh during the first phase deadline that ended on Tuesday (November 21).
Election Commission Additional Secretary Ashok Kumar Debnath disclosed this information while talking to reporters at Agargaon’s election building on Tuesday (November 21).
He said that some organizations including the European Union have applied to the EC to extend the time. The commission has decided to extend the time till December 7.
Claiming that there is a massive response to the application at the international organization and individual level, this additional secretary said, ‘We think the response has been good. They applied for extension of time. We hope, this number can increase further.’
He said that so far we have received applications from observers and journalists from 12 countries. Considering the number, 30 to 32 people. This number may increase. 4 have applied to come as organizations. They are – 11 members from African Electoral Union, 4 members from South Asian Development Forum, 5 members from NDI and IRI and 4 members from European Union.
Noting that the EC will not invite anyone for observation, the secretary said, ‘We will not invite anyone. We will only invite those from whom we receive invitations from time to time.’
Tags: Application period foreign observerjournalists increased
