The European Parliament (EP) is not calling for new elections in Bangladesh, but is encouraging all political parties to find a solution for making the next elections inclusive whenever it takes place, said an influential EP member in the city Wednesday, reports UNB.
"We're not calling for new elections. We need a political solution from the major political parties about how a future election will be conducted," said Jean Lambert, Member of the EP and Chairperson of the delegation for relations with South Asia.
Speaking at a pre-departure press conference, she said they have still concerns about the January 5 elections saying it was not 'fully contested' and referred to the non-deployment of election observers in the elections.
European Union (EU) ambassador Pierre Mayaudon was present at the press conference held at the office of the European Union delegation to Bangladesh.
Lambert said major political parties in Bangladesh have a responsibility at this moment to have a political solution ensuring that the next election will give a real and full voice of the people of Bangladesh whenever the next election takes place.
Asked whether she sees any prospect in terms of narrowing down the gap between major political parties, she said: "Still it seems there is a long way to go. It's difficult to say when the progress will come. But that doesn't mean people should give up trying to make that happen."
Responding to a question on human rights situation in Bangladesh, Lambert referred to the resolution that the EP adopted in September this year expressing concerns over disappearances, extrajudicial killings and seeking 'in-depth' investigations in such incidents.
"We've concerns on a number of issues at the moment. In the legislative field, one is about proposed law on non-government organizations," she said.
Lambert said an active civil society is very crucial in any country and Bangladesh has got that. "That's part of the country's strength.
She also laid emphasis on free media for strong democratic practice apart from ensuring space for civil society and opposite voices.
Responding to a question regarding EP's call to disassociate ties with Jamaat, she said they had a resolution regarding the matter and they stand by the resolution.
bdnews24.com adds: The European Parliament (EP) has again insisted on the BNP cutting off its ties with Jamaat-e-Islami.
Jean Lambert, an MEP, said at a media call in Dhaka Wednesday that she had discussed the issue with the BNP during her visit.
She came in Dhaka Saturday at the invitation of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers' and Exporters' Association (BGMEA) to attend an apparel industry meet. She leaves Wednesday night.
Lambert is also the chair of the delegation for relations with South Asian countries.
During her 'goodwill' visit, she said she had general-secretary-level meeting with two major parties - the ruling Awami League (AL) and the opposition BNP.
The EU had not sent observers to the Jan 5 general election, as it did not find it "transparent, inclusive and credible" with more than half the seats going uncontested.
Later, on Jan 16, the Europarl in a resolution urged the BNP to 'unequivocally' distance itself from the Jamaat-e-Islami and Hifazat-e Islam.
It also suggested that the government ban parties resorting to terrorists acts, without taking any name.
Replying to a question on whether they had changed their position, she said the resolution had not been altered, making it clear "that remains the position of the European parliament".
Lambert said they were not calling for fresh elections but would encourage major parties to find a solution conducive for holding an election.
