bdnews24.com, London :
The Commonwealth has hit out at ‘politically motivated violence’ in Bangladesh and called for a ‘purposeful dialogue’ to create a framework for ‘early’ elections that are inclusive.
“It is a welcome development that leaders of the major political parties have expressed a readiness to talk, with early and inclusive elections in mind,” said Commonwealth Secretariat spokesman Richard Uku in a statement.
“The Commonwealth remains ready to support a purposeful dialogue towards a framework for future elections that fully reflects the will of the people and respects the principle of democratic constitutionalism,” the statement reads.
He said the Commonwealth is also willing to assist the Election Commission of Bangladesh “in further strengthening its functions and effectiveness.” Uku said that the Commonwealth continues to follow political developments in Bangladesh closely after its elections on 5 January and stands ready to “provide whatever support may be considered helpful in the post-election period.” But the Commonwealth Secretariat spokesman lashed out at violence.
“The politically motivated violence and loss of life and injuries in the run-up to the elections was a matter of profound concern, and a threat to the orderly conduct of democratic elections, to which all Commonwealth members are committed. “Attacks on minority communities are particularly reprehensible for a Commonwealth which attaches the greatest importance to respect for diversity and equality.”
Uku said it was ‘encouraging’ that such incidents have declined.
“We welcome the recent public statements by leaders of the major political parties that violence and attacks on minorities are unacceptable. These attacks must cease altogether,” he said. Uku said the Commonwealth is committed to upholding and promoting democratic culture, including the inalienable right of all citizens to participate in free and fair elections.
The emphasis on ‘early and inclusive elections’ seems to indicate the Commonwealth’s wishes for an immediate dialogue between the major political parties leading to an inclusive election in not-too-distant future.
