European Union Flag CollectedThey also called for safeguarding freedom of expression and right to peaceful assemblyThe heads of countries belonging to the European Union (EU) as well as Norway and Sweden called upon the government, Election Commission and all stakeholders to ensure a genuine, credible, inclusive and transparent electoral process in the upcoming general polls, slated for December 30. In a joint statement issued in Dhaka on Monday, the European delegation have urged all political parties to meet their democratic responsibilities, refrain from violence; and law enforcing agencies to strictly adhere to the rule of law. They also called for safeguarding freedom of expression and right to peaceful assembly. “Media and civil society scrutiny is particularly important in ensuring transparency throughout this process,” the statement added. “Participatory elections constitute an important step in the ongoing process of national development for all Bangladeshi citizens,” the statement concluded.

Source: Dhaka Tribune December 10, 2018 14:33 UTC