At least 80 observers from 11 countries have been finalized to observe the 7th January national polls. Additionally, around 50 journalists from various countries are set to visit Bangladesh to cover news related to the 12th national election.
Sources from the Election Commission (EC) secretariat and the foreign ministry have confirmed this information. EC officials have expressed expectations that the number of foreign observers may increase within a few days.
So far, the authorities have completed preparations to host 80 observers from 11 nations, including Russia, China, Japan, India, Nigeria, Gambia, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and Mauritius.
The Election Commission bears all costs, including residential facilities, for those officially invited. According to the EC, a total of 227 foreign observers and journalists have applied to monitor the election.
At least 26 out of the 44 registered political parties are participating in the January 7 national election.
Twelve parties participated in the 2014 election and 39 parties ran in the 2018 election.
The 26 parties are the Awami League, Jatiya Party (Manju), Bangladesh Samyabadi Dal, Krishak Shramik Janata League, Gonotantri Party, Bangladesh National Awami Party, Workers Party of Bangladesh, Bikolpodhara Bangladesh, Jatiya Party, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (Inu), Zaker Party, Bangladesh Tarikat Federation, National People's Party, Gono Front, Bangladesh Jatiya Party (Mukit), Islamic Front Bangladesh, Bangladesh Kalyan Party, Islami Oikya Jote, Bangladesh Islami Front, Bangladesh Muslim League, Bangladesh Sangskritik Muktijote, Bangladesh Nationalist Front, Bangladesh Congress, Trinamool BNP, Bangladesh Nationalist Movement, and Bangladesh Supreme Party.
