International Observers Praise Bangladesh’s Democratic Process in 13th National Election

International observers have commended Bangladesh’s democratic process in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, describing the polls as peaceful, participatory, and well-organized.

The election marks the first time millions of citizens have voted to form a new government since the 2024 mass uprising that ended the Awami League’s 15-year rule. Foreign representatives reported widespread public enthusiasm surrounding the vote.

David Dreier, head of the election observation delegation from the U.S.-based International Republican Institute (IRI) and a former member of the U.S. Congress, described the election as “free, fair, and festive.” Speaking to journalists after visiting the Manarat International School and College polling center in Dhaka, Dreier said, “Today is an exciting day in Bangladesh’s history. On my first visit to the country, I have been truly impressed by the joy and electoral spirit among ordinary people.”

He added that polling stations maintained a disciplined environment and witnessed spontaneous participation from voters.

Nighat Siddiqui, Director General of Pakistan’s Election Commission, also characterized the voting atmosphere as highly positive and cordial. After visiting several polling centers, she said voters were casting their ballots with great enthusiasm. She noted strong interest in the “Yes-No” referendum vote for change and highlighted long queues of women, youth, and elderly voters as evidence of broad participation.

Siddiqui further praised the Bangladesh Election Commission for managing the entire process efficiently.

According to the Election Commission, a total of 394 international observers and 197 foreign journalists are monitoring and covering the election. More than one million members of law enforcement agencies were deployed nationwide as voting took place from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

As of the afternoon, the average voter turnout recorded at 36,031 polling centers stood at 47.9 percent. However, the Commission Secretariat said final turnout figures and official results would take more time to confirm.

More than 127.6 million voters were eligible to cast their ballots in this election. A total of 51 political parties and 2,034 candidates are contesting the polls.

With the Awami League barred from participating, political analysts expect the main contest to be between the BNP-led alliance and the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance.