The European Union (EU) has described the controversial 11th parliamentary polls held on Sunday as tainted and urged authorities in Bangladesh to ensure a proper examination of allegations of irregularities and commit to full transparency in their resolution
‘Violence has marred the election day, and significant obstacles to a level playing field remained in place throughout the process and have tainted the electoral campaign and the vote,’ said a statement issued on Tuesday night by the spokesperson of the European External Action Service, which deals with the EU’s foreign affairs.
‘The relevant national authorities should now ensure a proper examination of allegations of irregularities and commit to full transparency in their resolution,’ it added.
‘The European Union expects the country to move forward towards democracy, respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms. We will continue to support the work in this context, in the interest of the people of Bangladesh,’ the statement read.
On Monday, prime minister Sheikh Hasina rejected calls for a new vote after being declared the landslide winner in an election marred by deadly violence that the opposition slammed as ‘farcical’ and rigged.
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