Voter turnout to be key benchmark for upcoming national election

German Ambassador Rüdiger Lotz has said that voter turnout will be an important benchmark in assessing Bangladesh’s upcoming national election. He also expressed hope that the polls will be participatory, free and free from violence.

Speaking at a DCAB Talk held at the National Press Club on Wednesday morning, the envoy responded to questions on the upcoming election, post-election stability, Airbus purchase, student visas, and the verdict in the case against Sheikh Hasina.

The event was moderated by DCAB President AKM Moinuddin, with a welcome address by General Secretary Arifuzzaman Mamun.

The ambassador said the forthcoming election is crucial for Bangladesh’s democratic process and political stability. He noted that Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has already expressed confidence about a festive, participatory election with nearly 60% voter turnout, adding that Germany trusts his assurance. “The level of voter participation will be a major indicator,” he said.

On political conditions, Lotz observed that Bangladesh has undergone a year-long reform process during which the situation was not always calm. He stressed the need for post-election reconciliation to restore political harmony, noting that political stability is a prerequisite for economic stability.

Responding to a question about the International Crimes Tribunal’s verdict involving Sheikh Hasina, the envoy said past injustices should go through proper judicial process. However, he reiterated that Germany and the EU do not support the death penalty.

He added that despite Germany sheltering Sheikh Hasina and her sister in 1975 under exceptional circumstances, no recent request for political asylum has been made.

On the Airbus purchase issue, Lotz said a previous agreement between Bangladesh and France was not upheld by the current government. While aircraft purchases are a sovereign decision, he said the EU naturally stands in favour of Airbus and added that such commercial commitments can have long-term implications for bilateral relations.

Regarding student visas, the ambassador acknowledged a high incidence of fraudulent documents in applications from Bangladesh, which remains a major challenge. Even so, Germany welcomes Bangladeshi students and urges them to submit accurate information and proper documentation.