OHCHR head calls newly elected Govt. in Bangladesh to renew democracy, human rights
Anjali Sharma
GG News Bureau
UNITED NATIONS, 9th Jan. UN human rights head Volker Türk on Monday called on the newly elected Government of Bangladesh to take steps to renew the country’s commitment to democracy and human rights.
According to a press release from rights office OHCHR, Mr. Turk voiced his concern that Sunday’s poll which saw Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secure a fifth term in office, was “marred by violence and repression of opposition candidates and supporters”.
“In the months leading up to the vote, thousands of opposition supporters have been detained arbitrarily or subjected to intimidation. Such tactics are not conducive to a truly genuine process,” said Mr. Türk.
He implored the Government “to take the necessary steps to ensure that the human rights of all Bangladeshis are fully taken into account, and to strengthen the underpinnings of a truly inclusive democracy in the country.”
OHCHR said that according to reports, law enforcement officials used methods such as arrests, threats, enforced disappearances, blackmailing and surveillance as intimidation tactics ahead the ballot, which was boycotted by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party.
OCHCR reported acts of political violence, including arson attacks allegedly committed by opposition groups.
The agency said 25,000 opposition supporters have been arrested, including key party leaders, since 28 October.
Some 10 opposition supporters died or were killed in custody in the last two months, raising serious concerns about possible torture or harsh conditions of detention, Mr. Turk said.
OHCHR stated that many human rights defenders have been forced to go into hiding and some have fled the country, while dozens of suspected enforced disappearance cases have been reported mostly in November.
“These incidents must be independently investigated, and those responsible must be brought to justice in fair and transparent trials,” Mr. Türk said.
“Violations and irregularities during the campaign and on election day itself should also be thoroughly and effectively investigated.”
“Democracy was hard won in Bangladesh and must not become cosmetic,” said Turk.
“Bangladesh has been a role model of development, and I fervently hope this will translate into the political and institutional spheres too. The future of all Bangladeshis is at stake,” he added.
