Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has said that foreign election observers must be impartial, experienced, and reputable.

CEC made the remark following a meeting on May 13 at the Election Commission office with a delegation from the US-based Carter Center’s Democracy Program, the CEC emphasized that observers with a strong track record and no political bias are encouraged to monitor the upcoming elections.

The delegation, led by Senior Associate Director Jonathan Stonestreet, visited Bangladesh for a pre-election assessment. 

The CEC underscored that the delegation expressed confidence in the Election Commission's credibility and preparation for fair elections.

Bangladesh’s 12th parliamentary elections are scheduled to take place between December 2024 and June 2025. The Election Commission is finalizing the voter list, amending election laws, and reviewing guidelines for domestic and foreign observers. It is also considering taking direct authority over the approval of foreign observers instead of leaving it to the government.

MSK/