British High Commissioner in Dhaka Robert Gibson on Monday expressed concern over the media reports of ‘interference’ and ‘transgressions’ in the upazila polls now being held in phases, and hoped that the Election Commission would investigate it ‘fully and transparently’ if it is true.
“It’s not acceptable, if it’s true,” the British envoy said while talking to reporters after opening a new UK-Australia joint visa centre in the city.
He also hoped that such allegations will be dealt with ‘appropriately’ by the authorities concerned and mentioned that voters must be allowed to exercise their right to vote without fear and without intimidation as the local government polls gave choice to voters.
Responding to a question, Gibson said he is encouraged to see all political parties’ participation in the upazila elections. “I’m encouraged that everybody is participating in election. It’s encouraging…it’s good.”
About future elections, he said major political parties need to take steps to engage in dialogue to find out ways for a ‘sustainable political solution’ for national elections. “I think the initiative should be taken from all sides…I encourage all sides to try to come up with a solution,” Gibson said adding that a sustainable political solution is a must to hold elections peacefully.
BNP, one of the major political parties, boycotted the much-talked-about January 5 elections.
