UK (Commonwealth Union)_ Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland KC has extended her congratulations to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on her victory in the general election.
Patricia conveyed her best wishes to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina via X (the former Twitter), acknowledging the electoral success and expressing readiness for collaboration with Bangladesh to address national priorities. The Commonwealth Secretariat is poised to work alongside Bangladesh, looking forward to a partnership that benefits the people of Bangladesh and all member states of the Commonwealth Family.
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Ahead of the general election, where Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League secured a significant win for the fifth consecutive term, Patricia Scotland urged political and civic leaders in Bangladesh to create a supportive environment for citizens to exercise their right to vote peacefully. She emphasized the importance of strengthening the country’s democratic values, recognizing Bangladesh’s significant role as the first Commonwealth country to hold a national election in 2024.
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Secretary-General stated, “In this momentous year, when more than sixty nations are expected to hold national elections, representing almost half of the world’s population, we remember the Commonwealth family’s commitment to peace and democracy. Looking towards and beyond the elections of 7 January, I urge leaders, candidates, and parties to actively encourage all to advance the Commonwealth values of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights in Bangladesh.” Prior to the parliamentary election scheduled for January 7, 2024, a Commonwealth Expert Team (CET) has been dispatched to Bangladesh at the request of the Bangladesh Election Commission. The team was led by former Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Hon. Bruce Golding.
2 dhakatribune.com
Acknowledging Bangladesh’s membership in the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland emphasized the need to resolve electoral disputes through legal channels. She expressed the Commonwealth’s thriving spirit when civil society contributions are encouraged, judicial independence and media freedom are promoted, and electoral disputes are resolved through legal channels. She said, “I am sure I echo the sentiments of the people of Bangladesh, a treasured member of the Commonwealth, in calling on all political and civic leaders to foster tolerance, respect, and understanding, and discourage violence and hate speech. In keeping with our Commonwealth values and again echoing the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people, I encourage all to resolve electoral disputes through the relevant legal channels.”
As a continuation of the Commonwealth Secretariat’s commitment to supporting its member countries, Patricia Scotland reaffirmed her dedication to assisting Commonwealth nations in strengthening their democratic institutions. The Secretary-General concluded by extending her best wishes to Bangladesh’s leaders and people as they continue their democratic journey.
