FM beefs up measures to encounter pre-polls propaganda

Staff reporter :

The government is taking proactive measures to counteract pre-election propaganda against Bangladesh as it is believed that such issues will be intensified in the run up to the upcoming parliamentary polls.
The Foreign Ministry (FM) on Thursday said that they have introduced an ‘Election Observer Facilitation Cell’ to provide assistance to foreign observers who express interest in monitoring the upcoming election in Bangladesh.
The Ministry has instructed Bangladesh Missions abroad to take necessary actions in order to address propaganda aimed at both Bangladesh and the government in anticipation of the upcoming national election.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Seheli Sabrin, emphasised the need for a more proactive approach, acknowledging the potential increase in propaganda leading up to the elections.
During a weekly press briefing on Thursday, she stated, “We believe it’s essential to adopt a more proactive stance due to the possibility of heightened propaganda during the election period.”
“Bangladesh’s diplomatic missions abroad are actively engaging with host countries where disinformation and misinformation are being disseminated, ensuring that the country’s stance is accurately represented,” she said.
“A committee consisting of representatives from three key ministries – Information, Law, and Foreign Affairs – is diligently working on this matter,” she informed the reporters.
When asked about any foreign observers applying for election observation, she responded, “At present, we have not received any such requests. However, a six-member

Election Exploratory Mission from the European Union visited Bangladesh from July 9-13. Another team of a similar nature from the United States is expected to visit here in October.”
“Foreign observers seeking to participate in observing the election will be granted permission in accordance with election rules and regulations. The Foreign Ministry has set up the election observer facilitation cell to facilitate communication with all relevant parties,” she said.
Regarding the security dialogue between Dhaka and Washington, she explained, “Annually, both countries engage in sector-specific dialogues with the aim of enhancing bilateral relations and development. The security dialogue, similar to other dialogues, takes place in the respective capitals. Given that the previous security dialogue was conducted in Washington DC in 2022, it is anticipated that the ninth dialogue will take place in Dhaka this year.”
Drawing attention to the recent series of dialogues between Dhaka and Washington and whether they were routine meetings, the Spokesperson emphasised, “Regular bilateral meetings are a common occurrence. Bangladesh and the US share a multifaceted relationship. Presently, the US stands as Bangladesh’s largest export destination and the largest investor in the country. The recent dialogues, meetings, and high-level visits are all part of our routine and ongoing interaction.”