A delegation from the Central Election Commission (CEC) of the Russian Federation has described the overall environment of Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum as peaceful, festive and well-administered.
The assessment was shared in a press release issued by the Russian Embassy in Dhaka following the delegation’s participation in the international election observation programme on Sunday, February 15.
According to the embassy, the delegation, led by CEC Commissioner Pavel Andreyev, visited Bangladesh on 11–12 February to observe the polls. Representatives from Russia’s CEC, along with officials from the Russian Embassy, monitored voting activities at eight polling stations covering more than 40 booths in Dhaka and Narayanganj.
Observers said that they followed the process from the opening of polling stations through to preparations for vote counting. They noted visible voter engagement, with many citizens describing the election as long awaited following the political developments of July 2024. Some voters were seen attending polling centres with family members. Political competition, the delegation observed, remained confined to the ballot process.
The Russian observers reported that election officials demonstrated adequate preparation and adhered to national laws and Election Commission guidelines. Presiding officers carried out their responsibilities efficiently, while the presence of polling agents representing contesting parties contributed to transparency.
Security arrangements were described as extensive, with more than 900,000 police and military personnel deployed nationwide. While isolated incidents were reported, the delegation said these did not affect the overall conduct of the election.
At one polling centre, preparations for vote counting were completed in a structured manner under video surveillance and in the presence of polling agents, according to the statement.
During a separate meeting with Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, Andreyev discussed electoral standards and the use of technology in managing elections. On behalf of CEC Chair Ella Pamfilova, he extended an invitation to Bangladeshi representatives to participate in the international observation programme for the upcoming elections to the State Duma.
A memorandum of cooperation between Russia’s CEC and Bangladesh’s Election Commission has been in effect since 2019. In March 2024, a delegation from Bangladesh observed Russia’s presidential election.
JPI/MHK