Dhaka, Dec. 18 -- 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 furthe...