EU expects inclusive elections

The European Union (EU) hopes to see a democratic, credible, peaceful and inclusive election in Bangladesh.

EU ambassador Charles Whiteley made the remark after holding a meeting with the election commission on Wednesday afternoon.

He said the entire world expects such an election.

A EU delegation held a meeting with the election commission at the Nirbachan Bhaban ahead of the 12th parliamentary election slated to be held on 7 January.

After the meeting, Charles Whiteley said an elaborate discussion has been held over the preparation of the election. However, he didn't say anything elaborately.

He also didn't respond to the newsmen.

After the meeting while talking to newsmen, chief election commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal said, "We have clearly said we are trying our level best to ensure that the election is free, fair, peaceful and credible. We have told the EU delegation that our two election commissioners are visiting various parts of the country. They are asking the local administration to take measures to ensure free, fair and inclusive elections."

The CEC said, "So far we have realised they are pleased with our statement. We have a constitutional obligation. We have made them understand that we are legally and constitutionally bound to hold the election within a specific timeframe. I believe they have understood our constitutional limitation."

Kazi Habibul Awal also said the election commission cannot interfere if there is dispute and division in the political arena.

Ambassadors of Sweden, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Denmark, France and Germany, among others, joined the meeting.

 Election commissioners Ahsan Habib Khan, Rasheda Sultana, Md Alamgir, Md Anisur Rahman and EC secretary Md Jahangir attended the meeting.