Canada has urged all the political parties in Bangladesh to engage in a genuine dialogue to reach an agreement soon on a process for the next set of elections that Bangladeshis will consider credible.
“We continue to urge all parties to start negotiations and reach an agreement soon on a process for the next set of elections,” said Heather Cruden, the Canadian High Commissioner in Dhaka.
In a statement on Wednesday, the diplomat said Canada considers fully participatory elections, in addition to allowing space for legitimate political dissent, as fundamental to a vibrant democracy. Taking note of the swearing-in of the new cabinet and the opening of Parliament, Cruden said Canada remains concerned that many Bangladeshis did not have the opportunity to vote and that more than half the seats in Parliament were filled by acclamation.
On the allegations of forced disappearances, the Canadian envoy said Canada is concerned following the allegations of forced disappearances, arbitrary arrest and ongoing detention of members of the BNP. “We call on the government of Bangladesh to respect its international human rights obligations, including the protection of religious freedom.”
Canada is hopeful that Bangladesh will move beyond the current political climate so that all parties can focus on fighting corruption and on Bangladesh’s continued socioeconomic progress and development, Cruden mentioned. She, however, said although they do not consider the election to have been fully participatory, they will continue to support the people of Bangladesh by working with the government, opposition parties, civil society and the private sector.
The Canadian diplomat also said they are encouraged by the moratorium on hartals announced by the BNP and hoped that this gesture will encourage genuine and constructive dialogue between the main political parties.
