EC extends application deadline for int'l poll observers

The Election Commission has extended the deadline for international observers and media to apply to observe the 12th parliamentary election.

They will able to file application till December 7, said EC Additional Secretary Ashok Kumar Debnath.

He said that the EC extended the deadline from November 21 as many international observers sought it.

The EC said earlier that it is committed to holding free, fair, credible and peaceful elections, and wants foreign election observers and media, alongside local observers.

According to the Guidelines for International Election Observers and Foreign Media, applicants, whether individuals or organisations, should possess practical experience in the fields of good governance, elections, democracy, peacebuilding, and human rights.

Additionally, applicants must provide proof of registration with their respective country's relevant authority and adhere to the election laws of Bangladesh.

The commission will not consider any observer accreditation applications from individuals convicted of electoral or any other fraud-related offences.