UNB, Dhaka: European diplomats would like to see Bangladesh return to elected government through credible elections as soon as possible with necessary reform of political parties during the current interregnum so democracy could be sustainable.

The Ambassadors of the European Union member-countries, addressing a media conference Tuesday marking the European Day, extended full support to the caretaker government in carrying out the electoral reforms and the anti-corruption drive to clean up the ground.

They strongly argued that press freedom, free movement and due process of law must be maintained in implementing the government agenda.

“Indeed, we like to see Bangladesh return to democracy and elected government provided the conditions have to be there for free, fair and credible elections,” EU Ambassador Dr Stefan Frowein said, adding: “ Party reforms are necessary for democratic elections.”

German Ambassador Frank Meyke, British High Commissioner Anwar Chowdhury, French Ambassador Jacques Andre-Costilhes, Danish Ambassador Einar Jense, Netherlands Ambassador Kees Beemsterboer, Italian Ambassador Pietrp Ballero and Swedish Ambassador Ms Britt Faikman Hagstrom attended the conference.

Although the media conference was aimed at focusing on EU policies and issues, majority questions were asked about Bangladesh’s domestic political issues in view of the major developments in the political arena following the recent crisis, which has stalled the polls.

About the holding of the general election, British High Commissioner Anwar Choudhury said they support the caretaker government for holding credible elections and also leaving behind a set of reforms and infrastructures to ensure the future elections are held with high standards and democracy here could be sustainable.

It seems that the caretaker government is moving with sincerity and genuineness towards the elections in accordance with its declaration to hold it between January and December 2008, he noted.

On situation of human rights, the Bangladeshi-origin top British diplomat said overall data suggest that the index of human rights has improved slightly with killings in crossfire reduced. He appreciated the caretaker government for quick response to deal with individual case of human-right abuse.

Asked if they consider as violation of human and fundamental rights the reported internment of Khaleda Zia and restriction on Sheikh Hasina, the British envoy observed that it needs to bear in mind that the country is under the state of emergency.

“It is of course unfortunate about restriction of movement and expression, but we need to have balance in security aspect on the one hand and individual freedom on the other,” he told a questioner.

Chowdhury would not agree with the notion that Dr Fakhruddin’s is a military-backed government, rather he said it is a civilian caretaker government within the constitutional arrangement enjoying the support of the military, and so far, of the people.

Replying to a question about some restrictions on media report, German Ambassador Meyke appreciated the Chief Advisor’s commitment to ensure full freedom of the press.

However, he said individual calling from intelligence to journalists over a ‘cup of tea’ would be “sabotage” to any kind of democratic government. He said the press department should maintain good relation with press people.

In reply to a question if the EU countries facing difficulties in implementing development projects and pursuing trade and investment, both Anwar Choudhury and Dr Frowein said the present situation is better.

“We are not facing any difficulties at all, rather it’s reverse. We see an environment where investment and trade could be done more effectively and efficiently,” Choudhury said about the changes that mark the apolitical interim period.

Asked if they consider the caretaker government is losing control over the affairs with the changed positions on Sheikh Hasina snd Khaleda Zia, Ambassador Meyke viewed it differently: it is encouraging that the caretaker government has capability of correcting its missteps.





© The Bangladesh Journal