New Dhaka Times: Desk Report
United Nations Resident Coordinator Gwyn Lewis has stated that Bangladesh’s upcoming national elections can be considered inclusive even without the participation of the Awami League—provided that active public participation is ensured.
She made this remark on Wednesday, June 4, at a “DCAB Talk” event organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at the National Press Club in Dhaka.
In response to a question about how inclusive an election would be without the Awami League, Gwyn Lewis said, “If the people of the country participate properly in the election, then the election can be considered inclusive even without the Awami League. The UN understands inclusivity as a condition where every Bangladeshi citizen has the freedom and opportunity to express their opinion.”
She added, “I am not commenting on the position of any political party. This is not about Awami League or BNP. What I mean is that the UN is not involved in political matters. Questions like this should be answered by the concerned government and political parties.”
In response to another question about banning the Awami League, she said that ensuring the participation of all political parties can reduce the possibility of political polarization and conflict. However, she also noted, “This is a political decision that depends on the government. The decision must be made considering the overall context. There is nothing more to say.”
She stated that the United Nations is ready to provide technical assistance to the Election Commission but does not take responsibility for organizing elections. She emphasized, “When and how elections will be held in Bangladesh will be determined by the people and political parties of the country.”
DCAB President A K M Moinuddin and General Secretary Md. Arifuzzaman Mamun also spoke at the event.