EU observer chief calls election competitive

Speaking at a press conference in Dhaka on Saturday, he said EU observers monitored 805 polling stations and assessed the vote as broadly credible and conducted under the rule of law. He added that the election commission operated transparently and candidates were able to campaign freely.

Ijabs, representing the European Union, expressed concern over degrading remarks and digital harassment targeting women during the election period. He said the low participation of female candidates reflects a lack of strong political commitment to women’s empowerment.

He condemned online character attacks and gender-based harassment, calling them incompatible with democratic practice, and extended sympathy to affected families.

He also praised political parties for peacefully accepting victory and defeat afte