Election Commission (EC) will not allow foreign observers, who previously endorsed controversial polls as “credible”, to monitor the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Mohammad Nasir Uddin made the remarks on Tuesday (July 8) while speaking to reporters at the EC office in Dhaka.

Responding to a question CEC said, “Why should we take them again? Those who certified the last three elections as ‘very good and credible’ — we don’t want them anymore.”

He emphasized that only those with proven experience and credibility in election monitoring would be invited to observe the next national election.

Referring to the European Union’s (EU) interest in sending observers, CEC Nasir Uddin confirmed, “We have already invited the EU to observe the polls. They have expressed their willingness to come.”

The decision signals a policy shift by the EC as it aims to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The move comes amid growing calls for more credible oversight in future elections following criticism of past voting exercises.

The 13th parliamentary election is expected to take place in late 2025 or early 2026.

MSK/SMS