The interim government in Bangladesh must prioritize building consensus among political parties to ensure fair elections, as emphasized by Comfort Ero, president of the International Crisis Group. Key reforms are essential, and a common agreement on principles is necessary for meaningful progress. The complexities of the Rohingya crisis further complicate national security, necessitating strategic considerations.
Presently, the principal responsibility of the interim government revolves around fostering consensus among political factions in Bangladesh, ensuring an inclusive process leading up to the elections, as articulated by Comfort Ero, president of the International Crisis Group (ICG). Ero emphasized the necessity for a fair electoral environment to prevent disputes in the election results, warning that without resolving key issues, the elections could become contentious and disputed.
The ICG, positioned in Brussels, has drawn attention towards Bangladesh following significant political upheaval in July. The interim administration is currently implementing extensive reforms ahead of impending national elections, spearheaded by Muhammad Yunus and his newly established National Consensus Commission. While the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) advocates for elections dependent only on fundamental reforms, the National Citizen Party and others are calling for more extensive measures prior to voting.
Ero advocated for a universal agreement among political entities on core principles, suggesting that this consensus be reflected in the July Charter and manifestos, thereby adding substance to reform initiatives. She acknowledged the interim government’s focus on principles of dialogue, participation, inclusion, and transparency, though she voiced skepticism concerning the resolution of all fundamental issues prior to the elections.
Highlighting the importance of addressing deep-seated conflicts, Ero noted that without confronting these grievances, tensions would persist, ultimately leading to worse violence. She underscored the opportunity presented by last year’s tragedies to address significant issues within the national consensus reform initiative, while emphasizing the importance of accountability in human rights abuses through impartial and transparent processes.
Additionally, Ero addressed the complexities of the Rohingya crisis, noting the decline in funding and ongoing military conflicts in Myanmar that affect the wellbeing of Rohingya civilians. She pointed out the adverse effects on civilian populations due to military blockades and the lack of essential services like electricity and internet.
Concerning potential engagements between Bangladesh and the Arakan Army, Ero identified the necessity for neighbors to reassess their security strategies in light of changing border dynamics, asserting the importance of adapting to realities on the ground to ensure national security and aid in the safe repatriation of Rohingyas back to Rakhine.
In summation, building political consensus is vital for mitigating conflicts and ensuring free and fair elections in Bangladesh. Comfort Ero from the International Crisis Group advocates for shared principles among political parties while addressing historical grievances. The ongoing Rohingya crisis further complicates matters, necessitating strategic engagement from neighboring countries to safeguard both security and humanitarian interests. The interim government is urged to prioritize dialogue, inclusion, and transparency to lay the foundation for a stable and peaceful future.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
