The US-based International Republican Institute (IRI) has confirmed to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus that it will send at least 10 international observers to monitor Bangladesh’s national election scheduled for February next year.
The confirmation came during a meeting between the chief adviser and an IRI delegation at the State Guesthouse Jamuna in Dhaka on Tuesday, according to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.
“We will have robust election observation in February,” said Christopher J. Fussner, member of the IRI Board of Directors and head of the delegation. He noted that the presence of international observers would help reduce the risk of violence during the polls.
The delegation is currently in Bangladesh to assess the pre-election atmosphere and will meet with representatives of major political parties during their stay.
During the discussion, the team shared their experiences from previous election observation missions and exchanged views on electoral reforms. They expressed satisfaction with what they described as a “positive political environment” ahead of the polls.
“All parties are eager for the election. Compared to previous polls, the current atmosphere feels encouraging,” said Fussner, praising the progress made so far.
The delegation also emphasised the importance of engaging local observers from civil society and student groups to enhance transparency and public confidence in the process. They further discussed the dangers of misinformation and disinformation campaigns during elections.
The chief adviser echoed their concern, calling disinformation “a major threat to democracy.”
“It’s well-organised, well-financed, and capable of triggering immediate unrest. By the time facts emerge, the damage is often done,” he said.
Fussner also highlighted the growing risks associated with artificial intelligence, warning about its potential misuse in creating fake images and shaping public perception.
Professor Yunus reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to holding a peaceful, inclusive, and credible election.
“This will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many young voters. Nearly half of our population is under 27, and most of them will be voting for the first time. We want them to feel proud and satisfied. The election will be peaceful and festive,” he stated.
He further underlined the importance of the July Charter, describing it as a historic step forward in the country’s democratic journey.
“Most political parties have already signed the Charter, and we hope the remaining ones will soon follow. It marks another milestone toward a transparent and reform-oriented election,” he added.
The IRI delegation praised Yunus for his leadership over the past 15 months. “You have done an extraordinary job guiding the nation through this transition,” one delegate remarked.
