EC sets Jan 17 deadline for international election observer applications

Domestic observer organisations have been asked to apply by Dec 21

The Election Commission (EC) has invited international observers, foreign media representatives, and organisations to monitor the general elections and referendum scheduled for Feb 12, giving them one month to apply.

A notice published on the commission’s website on Thursday said applications must be submitted by Jan 17.

EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed urged interested parties to follow the relevant guidelines when applying.

This time, the EC has registered 81 observation organisations ahead of the elections. The minimum educational qualification for observers has been set at HSC or equivalent.

Domestic observation organisations have been asked to apply by Dec 21.

The EC notice said anyone with questions or seeking further information should contact the public relations director of the Secretariat.

Akhtar said on Wednesday the European Union (EU) will send “175 to 200” observers to the elections.

Apart from the EU, proposals for observation have so far come from Turkey and a few more organisations.