Dhaka: EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed announced that a tripartite agreement has been signed among the Election Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the European Union (EU) to facilitate monitoring of the upcoming election slated for February 12. The agreement paves the way for a delegation of around 175 to 200 observers, led by Member of the European Parliament Ivars Ijabs, to be present at various stages of the election process.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the agreement stipulates that the European Union will send a team to monitor the elections, with the Election Commission providing the necessary support as outlined in the tripartite arrangement. Akhtar Ahmed emphasized the importance of adhering to local protocols where necessary, particularly in areas like the Chattogram Hill Tracts.
The agreement, initially signed on December 15, received its final approval at the European Union headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, with confirmation communicated last night. Work related to the implementation of this agreement has already commenced, and further details are expected to be released shortly.