In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Bangladesh’s Election Commission (EC) has extended an invitation to diplomats stationed in Dhaka to observe its preparations for the upcoming 12th national parliamentary election. The polls are scheduled for January 7th, 2024.
To facilitate this transparent approach, the EC has requested Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen to invite heads of embassies and foreign missions in Dhaka to attend a briefing on January 4th, 2024.
The meeting, set for 3:00pm at the Padma Hall Room of Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital, will showcase the Commission’s measures aimed at guaranteeing a free and fair electoral process.
Shariful Alam, Director for Public Relations at EC Secretariat, confirmed the details in a letter to the Foreign Secretary.
The briefing will not only include heads of diplomatic missions but also representatives of international organizations and the UNDP resident representative in Bangladesh.
This proactive move by the EC, led by Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal, signals a commitment to international transparency and inclusivity in the upcoming elections.
The briefing is expected to provide valuable insights into the Commission’s preparations and address any questions or concerns from the diplomatic community.
Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen set to welcome heads of missions and ambassadors to the country’s election briefing. Credit: Prothomalo