Dhaka, Jan 27 (.) The Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) has issued a set of 11 directives for local and foreign observers and urged all parties to maintain strict impartiality and neutrality ahead of the polls for the 13th national parliamentary elections and the July Charter referendum.
In a letter issued late Monday, the body laid out the dos and don’ts for observers monitoring the polling centres and electoral areas, adding that so far it has so far accredited 55,454 observers for the twin votes.
The directives come as the commission seeks to ensure a controlled and credible observation environment during what is a highly contentious vote, set to be cast under heavy global scrutiny, in an extremely turbulent time for the country.
Under the directives, observers must visibly display their official identity cards at all times while on duty. They are expected to remain mindful of voters’ rights and ensure that their presence does not disrupt the work of election officials. Any form of interference in the electoral process is explicitly prohibited, reports Daily Star.
Inside polling centres, all observers are allowed to remain briefly in designated areas to monitor voting, provided they do not obstruct proceedings. The EC made it clear that observers are strictly barred from entering secret polling booths under any circumstances.
Observers have also been instructed to report any conflict of interest or misconduct by fellow observers from other organisations to the relevant appointing authorities.
Several directives reiterated that observers must ensure total compliance with the Constitution and all election-related laws and regulations, and cannot interfere with the duties of the polling staff. They are also prohibited from touching, handling or removing any election materials.
In its final set of instructions, the commission warned observers against displaying any symbols, clothing or materials that could be seen as supporting or opposing a political party or candidate.
It also barred all observers from accepting any kind of gifts, favours or attempting to purchase items from candidates, their agents or anyone involved in the election process.
The EC further cautioned observers to refrain from making public comments or speaking to the media in a manner that could influence or disrupt the electoral process. . . .