EU won’t create pressure over election timeline

The European Union (EU) will not put pressure on anyone regarding the timing of the upcoming national election in Bangladesh, said EU Ambassador to Dhaka Charles Whiteley.

He said deciding the time of national election is entirely up to Bangladesh. However, necessary reforms should be completed before the election.

He made these comments at an event organised by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at the National Press Club on Monday (May 5).

Michael Miller said the EU expects political parties and the interim government to work together on reform-oriented actions.

In response to a question from journalists, Miller said the EU is interested in cooperating in the upcoming elections. However, the decision on when the election will be held rests solely with the government of Bangladesh.

In response to another question, the ambassador stated that it is important to ensure transparency in the justice process for those responsible for the deaths and injuries during the mass uprising in July.

Ambassador Miller believes that the recent shift in the political landscape has created a major opportunity for reforms in the country. He emphasised that it is now crucial to make proper use of this opportunity.

Speaking about the situation in Rakhine, he said that humanitarian aid is urgently needed for those affected on both sides. It must be ensured that relief reaches everyone equally.

DCAB President AKM Moinuddin presided over the event while General Secretary Arifuzzaman Mamun delivered the welcome speech.