Dhaka – Leaving a note for Bangladeshi leaderships that the solution has to be a homegrown one, UN Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs Oscar Fernández Taranco on Wednesday urged both the ruling and opposition camps in Bangladesh to continue the dialogue in the spirit of goodwill and compromise.“I firmly believe there’s a ground for an agreement… Bangladesh leaders must continue to come together. I encouraged both sides to continue the dialogue in the spirit of goodwill and compromise,” he said.
Taranco said all the issues that are relevant to the current situation have been raised and discussed constructively, and both sides have made concrete proposals that clearly required for an agreement.
“…so, I think it’s extremely important to allow the representatives of the parties to engage constructively…it has to be a solution from the leaders of Bangladesh, it has to be a homegrown solution and it has to be a solution that will lead the expectation and aspiration of the people of Bangladesh,” he said.
The UN envoy made the remark while addressing a crowded press conference before wrapping up his six-day hectic tour of Bangladesh to help its bickering political parties reach an understanding over the next polls.
Stating that the credibility of the election will ultimately rest with the people of Bangladesh, he said he strongly believed that a solution to the current deadlock over the 10th general election is still possible if there is political will, leadership and an attitude of compromise.
Taranco said Bangladeshis expect that the two major parties to work together constructively to decrease the current tension and find a mutually agreeable solutions for free, fair, inclusive and non-violent elections.
“The people of Bangladesh know what a good and credible election looks like…the election will have to be credible in the ‘hearts and eyes’ of the people of Bangladesh.”
Responding to a question, he said the UN’s top priority is stopping violence and stopping unnecessary killings and thus reducing tensions to help reach the ongoing dialogue at the final stage to find out solution.
On a question about Quader Mollah, he said, “I’ve very much focused on the electoral challenges ahead and the general situation” that is required to create a conducive environment by all the political actors.”
Asked whether his mission has been successful or not, he said, “Let me very frank and sincere here……I’m very happy with the results.”
Responding to a question on possible one-sided polls, he said all issues relevant to the current situation have been brought up and they are to be handled by the both parties through discussion.
Asked about a proposal on curtailing PM’s power, he said, “I’m not here to go into the details what we’ve discussed. They (political parties) have agreed on many issues that are relevant to the current situation…many issues were raised and discussed very constructively.”
Sought comments whether UN chief Ban Ki-moon phoned Prime Minister today, Taranco did not give any direct reply saying the UN chief is actively engaged in Bangladesh as he likes Bangladesh very much and appreciates the progress Bangladesh has achieved in socioeconomic areas.
Referring to the dialogues between the representatives of Awami League and BNP in presence of him held on Tuesday and Wednesday, Taranco praised both sides for seizing the opportunity. “It’s a first answer to the expectations of people. A third meeting was agreed between the parties.”
Focusing on a homegrown solution, the special envoy of the UN Secretary General said Bangladesh leaders have shown statesmanship. “I’m happy… there’re measured that would contribute immensely top end the violence, release of the political leaders and a mutually satisfactory solution.”
He, however, said: “It remains critical to reduce tension and to continue to engage in constructive dialogue so as to create a congenial atmosphere.”
Mentioning that the current political crisis is exacting a heavy human, social, and economic toll on Bangladesh, the UN envoy said. ”It’s resulted in increasing tension and seriously threatens the hard-earned economic social progress that Bangladesh has achieved.”
Expressing deep concern over the growing violence, Taranco said, “I conveyed to everybody I met the Secretary General’s extreme concern about the rising level of violence.”
He strongly urged Bangladesh leaders to exercise restraint, uphold human rights and to respect the rule of law. “The actions of leaders on these issues would address one of the greatest concerns I’ve felt during my short visit here: ensuring the security of all people.”
On his return to New York, Taranco said he will brief the UN Secretary-General about his visit and share with him the messages and views of those that he met here.
Mentioning Bangladesh an important Member State of the United Nations, he said, the United Nations Team, here on the ground in Bangladesh, remains deeply committed to supporting the country’s drive to development and middle income status. We’ll also continue to support efforts to strengthen democracy.”
The UN emissary arrived here on Friday evening amid the country’s murky political situation that has made the January-5 general election uncertain. – UNB
