DHAKA – The Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) to Bangladesh, led by former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, held high-level meetings yesterday with the Inspector General of Bangladesh Police, Baharul Alam, and the Chief of Army Staff, General Waker-Uz-Zaman.
The meetings served as a critical security briefing ahead of the country’s 13th national parliamentary election and the referendum on the “July Charter,” both scheduled for February 12, 2026.
During the sessions at their respective headquarters, the security chiefs provided the 14-member delegation with a comprehensive overview of the current national security landscape. Discussions focused on the strategic deployment of forces and the specific readiness of the police and army to maintain order during what is being viewed as a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s democratic journey.
Inspector General Baharul Alam outlined risk-based security planning and enhanced cyber monitoring protocols designed to protect the integrity of the vote.
The Chief of Army Staff, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, detailed the military’s role in supporting civil administration to ensure a stable environment for voters. The security briefings addressed the preparedness of personnel to respond to potential disruptions, emphasizing a commitment to a peaceful and inclusive electoral process.
Akufo-Addo, representing the Commonwealth Secretary-General, sought specific assurances regarding the safety of the 25 observers being deployed across the country’s various divisions.
The engagement is a key component of the COG’s mandate to independently assess whether the electoral and referendum processes are conducted in accordance with national laws and international standards.
The group, which arrived in Dhaka on February 4, has also been meeting with the Bangladesh Election Commission, political parties, and civil society groups. Following the polls, the group is expected to issue an interim statement on February 14 before submitting a final report to the Commonwealth Secretariat.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
