UK wants Bangladeshis to exercise democratic rights
Discussion held on civil society and impartial poll observers
The British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke on Sunday inquired about preparations for the upcoming 12th parliamentary elections in Bangladesh.
“The UK promotes a free, fair, participatory, and peaceful election in Bangladesh. So that the people of the country can exercise their democratic rights,” she said during a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal at the Election Commission Secretariat.
She said that they discussed the role of independent, powerful institutions, the media, civil society, and impartial observers during the meeting.
“This is my first courtesy call on the chief election commissioner and his team and we had a constructive discussion,” she added.
In this regard, Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal said: “The issue of election has come up in the conversation. She wanted to know how our preparation was.
“We have told her that we are hopeful that the national polls would be held in a free and fair manner,” the CEC added.
He mentioned that Sarah Cooke also spoke about the credibility and participatory nature of the polls.
Sarah Cooke expects the election to be inclusive, CEC said, adding that they emphasized the role of polling agents to make the election free and fair.
“We will sensitize polling agents to maintain order inside polling stations and prevent any misuse. Polling agents have to be proactive and play a brave role,” he added.
Source: Dhaka Tribune.