It urges all sides to end political violence
In line with the influential countries, Australia has suggested a new, fully contested and transparent election in Bangladesh as soon as possible and called on all sides to end the political violence.
“The government and the opposition must take up their shared responsibility to hold a new, fully contested and transparent election as soon as possible,” said Julie Bishop, Australian Foreign Affairs Minister, in a statement on Tuesday.
She also expressed deep concern at the ongoing violence and political discord which marred the 10th parliamentary elections. “The Australian government condemns the attacks against minorities, and calls on all sides to end the political violence.”
“While the elections were constitutionally valid, less than half the parliamentary seats were contested and voter turnout was low”, said the Australian Minister.
She also said it is vital that the people of Bangladesh are able to express their democratic will and exercise real choice.
“It has been reported that both the Awami League government and the opposition coalition led by the Bangladesh National Party contributed to the unstable political conditions,” said Julie Bishop.
Australia has also advised its citizens to ‘reconsider your need to travel’ given the prospect of further violence in Bangladesh.
Source: UNB Connect