C\\\'wealth for \\\'purposeful dialogue\\\'

The Commonwealth has hit out at ‘violence’ in Bangladesh and called for a ‘purposeful dialogue’ to create a framework for future elections that are inclusive. “The Commonwealth remains ready to support a purposeful dialogue towards a framework for future elections that fully reflects the will of the people and respects the principle of democratic constitutionalism, Commonwealth Secretariat spokesperson Richard Uku has said in a statement. He said the C’wealth is willing to assist Bangladesh’s Election Commission “in further strengthening its functions and effectiveness.” Uku said the C’wealth continues to follow political developments in Bangladesh closely after its polls on January 5 and stands ready to “provide whatever support may be considered helpful in the post-polls period.” But he lashed out at violence, saying “The politically motivated violence and loss of life and injuries in the run-up to the elections was a matter of profound concern, and a threat to the orderly conduct of democratic elections, to which all Commonwealth members are committed. Attacks on minority communities are particularly reprehensible for a Commonwealth which attaches the greatest importance to respect for diversity and equality,” according to bdnews24.com.