February 11-12 delegation of the Central Election Commission of the Russian Federation (CEC), headed by Commissioner Pavel Andreev visited Dhaka to participate in the international observation program at the 13th Parliamentary Election and Referendum.

Observers from the Russian CEC and the Embassy in Bangladesh monitored more than 40 polling booths across 8 polling centers in Dhaka and the Narayanganj. They were present for every stage, from opening to the start of vote counting.

The observers noted strong preparedness among election officials for the combined voting process and keen voter interest. At every station visited, commission members followed a well-rehearsed procedure in line with national laws and election commission directives. Presiding Officers were thoroughly prepared and directed operations smoothly. A friendly, constructive atmosphere prevailed. Polling officers, along with party polling agents present at all sites, collaborated to ensure transparency and oversight of the voting process.

Security was robust, with over 900,000 police and army personnel deployed. Organizers succeeded in holding a calm, secure vote in line with the law. Isolated incidents did not mar the atmosphere or affect proceedings.

Voters showed particular engagement with the process. For many—based on their comments—this felt like a long-awaited event following the government’s ouster in July 2024. Some brought children along. Political rivalries played out solely through ballot marks. The overall mood was peaceful, even festive. Election officials reported turnout exceeding past years.

Vote counting preparations at one center the observers attended were methodical, conducted in the presence of polling agents and video surveillance.

In a meeting with Bangladesh Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin, Pavel Andreev discussed the issues of electoral standards and technologies. He conveyed the invitation from Chair of the CEC of Russia Ms Ella Pamfilova for the Bangladeshi counterparts to participate in the international observation program for upcoming State Duma elections.

Notably, the delegation of Election Commission of Bangladesh observed Russia’s presidential election in March 2024. A cooperation memorandum has been in place between Russia’s CEC and Bangladesh’s commission since 2019.

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