15 foreign missions emphasise the need for free polls, free expression
Fifteen foreign missions in Bangladesh today reaffirmed the importance of free, fair, inclusive and peaceful electoral processes in Bangladesh.
They highlighted the fundamental role democracy plays in protecting human rights and promoting development in Bangladesh and the importance of free expression, peaceful assembly and elections, among others outlined in the UN Declaration of Human Rights.
The signatories to the joint statement include the missions of Australia, the UK, Canada, Denmark, the EU, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the US.
The joint statement comes ahead of Human Rights Day on December 10, when the opposition political party BNP is expected to hold a rally in Dhaka, but the venue is yet to be decided.
The authorities are providing venue options, but BNP wants to hold the rally at Nayapaltan, where its headquarters is located, or Arambagh.
In recent times, foreign diplomats have spoken in public about a free, fair and participatory national election that is due to be held late next year or early 2024.
The ruling Awami League and opposition political parties are already holding rallies across the country, well ahead of the polls.
"We support and promote democratic governance as a set of values and principles to follow for meaningful participation, equality, security, and inclusive human and economic development," the statement said.
"We, as friends and partners of Bangladesh, are eager to further support its success, and reaffirm the importance of free, fair, inclusive, and peaceful electoral processes in the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights," said the statement.
Comments