Bangladesh
Parliamentary Election 12th Parliament Election: US observer team makes 5 recommendations
Dhaka, Oct 16: The pre-election observation team of the United States that came to Dhaka to verify the situation before the 12th National Assembly elections made five recommendations.
It emphasizes open discussion and dialogue on election issues. Freedom of expression and the end of political violence have also been suggested. On Sunday, the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI) made these five recommendations in a joint statement.
According to the statement, from October 8 to 11, the International Republican Institute (IRI) and National Democratic Institute (NDI) delegation stayed in Dhaka to learn about the pre-election preparations for the upcoming 12th parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. The Pre-Election Observation Team has made some recommendations regarding free and fair elections in Bangladesh, which can help in peaceful elections.
That said, there are several challenges to the election in the current political context. Among them are uncompromising politics, one-sided political situation, harsh political rhetoric, political violence, pervasive atmosphere of uncertainty and fear, lack of citizen's position, freedom of expression and trust among citizens. Among political leaders and other stakeholders, women, youth and marginalized groups also face barriers to political participation. Bangladesh is on the brink of an election and the upcoming election is a test of the country's commitment to democratic, participatory and competitive political processes.
The delegation made five-point recommendations for credible, inclusive, participatory and non-violent elections that could advance democracy in Bangladesh.
The recommendations are: 1. Moderate political discourse and engage in public dialogue on important election issues; 2. Protecting free speech and creating a space for citizens where dissent is respected; 3. Commitment to violence-free elections, holding accountable those involved in political violence; 4. Creating conditions for meaningful political competition for all parties, including the conduct of free elections, and 5. Creating and promoting a culture of active and inclusive electoral participation among citizens.
The statement also said that despite economic growth, infrastructure development, poverty reduction and environmental progress, political deadlock has eroded confidence in the democratic process. Which casts a dark shadow on this democratic process and can damage the course of economic and development.
