I\\\'ll work hard to promote democracy in BD: Bernicat

US Ambassador-designate to Bangladesh Marcia Stephens Bloom Bernicat has said she will work hard to support efforts to promote accountability and strengthen human rights and democracy in Bangladesh. She said Bangladesh’s main political parties urgently need to engage in constructive dialogue that will lead to a more representative government. She also said that the January 5 elections were ‘undeniably flawed’. The US diplomat made comments while giving her testimony before the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations on Thursday (US eastern standard time). Bernicat, currently Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Human Resources at the Department of State, said the United States remains concerned about recent trends in democracy and human rights in Bangladesh. She said the US remains gravely concerned about attacks on religious and ethnic minorities, political violence, and extrajudicial killings allegedly committed by security forces. ‘If confirmed, I’ll work with the government, civil society and Bangladeshis of all walks of life to ensure an environment that encourages the broadest and fairest participation,’ Bernicat said. On Grameen Bank issue, she said they encourage the government to ensure the continued effectiveness of Grameen Bank and protect its unique governance structure, according to a news agency.