UN resident coordinator Neal Walker highlighted Sunday the urgency for a dialogue among major political parties to find out a solution to the prevailing political crisis and creating conducive environment for a credible, inclusive election in future.
"No one from outside can resolve your problem," said the UN resident coordinator urging leaders of the two major political parties to sit together to find out an amicable solution. "The solution must come from Bangladesh, mainly from the two political leaders. This depends on the will of both sides… no outsiders," he added.
Walker, also the UNDP Resident Representative in Bangladesh, was addressing a talk show at the National Press Club conference room stressing the need for creating a congenial atmosphere for inclusive elections. "There is no alternative to an inclusive election for a participatory democracy," he added.
The talk show styled "DCAB talk" was arranged by Diplomatic Correspondents Association in Bangladesh (DCAB). DCAB President Mainul Alam and General Secretary Angur Nahar Monty conducted the press meet. He said people of Bangladesh and its political leaders would have to find the solution and they would have to agree on the conditions for inclusive elections. "We simply try to get the two sides sit together," said Walker adding that the issues that were discussed before the January 5 elections still remain the same.
When asked whether the UN is ready to play the role of a facilitator to initiate the dialogue, the UN representative said it would be premature to say anything further. He, however, stressed the need for creating a level playing field and congenial environment for holding the next general elections.
Responding to a question on the UN's role on Gaza issue, he said the UN chief has made a strong statement and other steps have been taken that may not be enough. "He's investing himself personally in this issue."
The UN Resident Coordinator also said that the UN is owned by its member states including Bangladesh, Russia, Japan and other countries. "Only the member states can decide what the UN does or doesn't. Ask us to act. If you do not ask us to act, we can't act."
Walker said they have no capacity to act on their own and the UN is a tool. When the world demands action, the UN responds. He does not see any failure of UN in handling Gaza issue.
The UN representative also appreciated the country for attaining remarkable progress in achieving Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Bangladesh has already achieved or is on track to achieve most of the MDG targets, with the goal of eradicating poverty remaining to be pursued, he said. The areas, where Bangladesh should give more emphasis included environmental sustainability, nutrition and full employment.
The UN representative also appreciated the role of Bangladesh UN peacekeeping operation which received global recognition. Bangladesh is among the top troops contributors to the UN. As of this month, there are 8,841 Bangladeshi soldiers and officers serving the UN in various conflict zones across the world.
