A United States mission is set to arrive in Dhaka in the first week of October to analyze the post-election environment in Bangladesh. They will stay in Dhaka for about a week and provide a report, which will include observations on the election environment. They will particularly focus on what actions are appropriate and indicative and highlight areas of concern.
In addition, there will be various recommendations regarding the upcoming election. The mission will engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including the Election Commission, government agencies, civil society, political parties, the peaceful society, and foreign diplomatic missions. Based on the report from this mission, the United States will decide whether to send election observers to Bangladesh.
The European Union (EU), however, has decided not to send election observers to Bangladesh in the upcoming election, citing economic reasons. Nevertheless, political analysts believe that it is not solely due to economic concerns but also the changed political situation in Bangladesh that has led the EU to refrain from sending election observers. As a result, there are concerns about the credibility of the upcoming election.
Bangladesh’s political landscape is currently turbulent, with both the Awami League and the BNP engaged in opposition activities. This situation could potentially lead to violence during the election. Such a scenario has occurred in the past.
In the context of ensuring a peaceful and fair election, it is crucial to monitor whether the United States decides to send election observers to Bangladesh, especially considering the friendly gestures and photo opportunities with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during her recent visit to the U.S. However, it remains uncertain whether the United States will change its policy stance. Human rights organization “Adilur Rahman Shuvro” received a two-year prison sentence, indicating concern over human rights issues. This decision may further strain relations and has raised questions about the credibility of the upcoming election.
