The European Union (EU) did not send any observer teams during the then prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s regime because the three elections held then were not deemed acceptable, said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.
He made the remark during a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital on Sunday.
Informing that Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, had met with the EU Ambassador Michael Miller, Shafiqul Alam said they is planning to send a large observer team for the upcoming election.
They had not sent any observer team before, because they felt the previous three elections were not acceptable, said Shafiqul. So far there is a good level-playing field centring the election. The government is not providing any additional advantage to any party, he added.
Shafiqul stated that social media could be the biggest challenge during the election. People associated with the ousted government could spread misinformation. However, law enforcers are fully prepared to tackle the situation.
He further said the government and Election Commission (EC) believe that the law-and-order situation is good ahead of election.
Responding to a question about multiple recent killings, Shafiqul said, the government is monitoring every incident closely. Accused people are being arrested in all incidents.
The press secretary said during the meeting between the chief adviser and the EU ambassador, the issue of a referendum was discussed. The chief adviser has informed them that the EC and all others are prepared. All necessary preparations have been made to ensure the election is fair, peaceful, and acceptable.
During the briefing, Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahmed said, “Although Moni Chakraborty of Narsingdi was killed due to a family feud, an attempt is being made to spread propaganda by portraying it as a communal attack.
“Eminent personalities have issued statements on this matter. However, we urge that such statements be made knowingly and only after proper verification.”
