Dhaka Bureau: The European Union has made a statement on the 12th National Parliament elections. On behalf of the EU, Josep Borrell, the high-ranking representative of this alliance of 27 European countries, reacted to the election of Bangladesh in a statement on Tuesday (09 January).
A statement from the highest level of the organization has expressed disappointment that all major political parties did not participate in the Bangladesh elections. Besides, it called upon the relevant authorities to ensure timely and thorough investigation of allegations of election irregularities.
The statement said, “The relationship between the European Union and Bangladesh is founded on the values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.” The European Union has taken into consideration the issue of the National Parliament elections held in Bangladesh last Sunday. Election violence and irregularities need to be investigated.
It said, “The EU condemns the electoral violence and calls for an end to post-election violence.” The EU respects and upholds the rule of law, independence of the judiciary, due process and the right to peaceful assembly during elections. In this case, the arrest of the opposition leadership is very worrying.
The statement added, “The EU calls on all parties to respect political pluralism, democratic values and international human rights standards and for peaceful dialogue.” The EU attaches importance to ensuring an environment in which the media, civil society and political parties can continue their work without any intimidation or hindrance.
The EU will work with the Government of Bangladesh to prioritize issues that mark long-standing relationships in the political, human rights, trade and development sectors, including the country’s potential future access to the GSP Plus Preferential Trade Scheme.
