Commonwealth observer team optimistic about free, fair polls: Asif Nazrul
He said the observers sought information about the overall election environment.
Law Adviser Asif Nazrul has said the Commonwealth observer team has expressed optimism about the prospects of a free and fair election after assessing the electoral environment.
Speaking to reporters today (10 February) following a meeting between the seven-member Commonwealth observer delegation and the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare, Asif said the observers sought information about the overall election environment.
Responding to questions on making the elections more inclusive, the adviser said, "I have informed them that due to the Awami League's history of atrocities and threats from across the border in India, none of them have shown remorse. They cannot be part of any meaningful reforms, so their inclusion in the election is not possible."
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Asif further said, "You cannot force inclusion. We have not heard any mindset, any indication, or any kind of statement in favour of inclusion from anyone in their party -- nothing at all."
He continued, "Their senior leaders are being tried for the killings during the July Uprising. Death sentence has been handed down against their main leader and she, while staying abroad, is issuing instructions to kill those who led the uprising and those who are part of our government. We have not seen a single leader of the Awami League express remorse or make any condemnatory statement regarding the role of their party and government during the uprising."
"So, when you want to begin a reconciliation process or move towards inclusion, you must take into account the attitude of the other side," he added.
He added that the delegation also inquired about participation of minorities and women voters. "I told them that after many years, Bangladesh is holding a good election. This time, women's participation will increase compared to previous elections, and minorities will vote freely," he said.
He further said, "Most of the reforms possible through ordinances have been implemented. Reforms that require constitutional changes will be addressed by the elected government."
He expressed hope that a referendum would pass with a "yes" vote.
