EU wants free, fair and inclusive election: Amir Khasru

The European Union (EU) wants the upcoming elections in Bangladesh to be free, fair and inclusive, said Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday (8 October) after a meeting with EU Ambassador to Bangladesh, Charles Whiteley, at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan, Amir Khasru shared the EU’s position. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Standing Committee Member Abdul Moyeen Khan and Organising Secretary Shama Obaid were also present.

“The European Union has always stood by Bangladesh’s electoral process. This time too, they will send an observer mission. They want the upcoming elections to be free, fair and participatory,” said Amir Khasru.

He further noted that the EU wants to support the institutionalisation of democracy in Bangladesh. “They are emphasising democratic culture, freedom of expression and press freedom. Alongside, they will assist in making the parliament more effective and stronger,” he added.

On the ongoing debates in the political arena regarding the election, the BNP leader said, “Since the election is approaching, the Election Commission should already be aware of the issues related to it and play an active role.”

Responding to a query about other political parties meeting diplomats, Amir Khasru said, “Who is meeting whom is their matter. The future of Bangladesh will be decided by its people. We want the people’s mandate to be the only decision.”

He also spoke about EU-Bangladesh trade relations, stating, “The EU’s duty-free market access has played a vital role in the success of Bangladesh’s ready-made garment sector. They want to continue this support and further strengthen trade relations in the future.”