The UN human rights chief on Monday
called on the newly elected Government of Bangladesh to take
steps to renew the country’s commitment to democracy and human
rights.
High Commissioner Volker Türk voiced his concern that Sunday’s
poll which saw Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secure a fifth term
in office, was “marred by violence and repression of
opposition candidates and supporters”, according
to a press
release from rights office OHCHR.
“In the months leading up to the vote, thousands of opposition
supporters have been detained arbitrarily or subjected to
intimidation. Such tactics are not conducive to a truly genuine
process,” said Mr. Türk.
He implored the Government “to take the necessary steps to ensure
that the human rights of all Bangladeshis are fully taken into
account, and to strengthen the underpinnings of a truly inclusive
democracy in the country.”
Arrest, threats, disappearances
OHCHR said that according to reports, law enforcement officials
used methods such as arrests, threats, enforced disappearances,
blackmailing and surveillance as intimidation tactics ahead the
ballot, which was boycotted by the main opposition Bangladesh
Nationalist Party.
Acts of political violence, including arson attacks allegedly
committed by opposition groups, have also been reported.
Around 25,000 opposition supporters have been arrested, including
key party leaders, since 28 October, said OHCHR. At least 10
opposition supporters reportedly died – or were killed – in
custody in the last two months, raising serious concerns about
possible torture or harsh conditions of detention, the High
Commissioner said.
Many human rights defenders have been forced to go into hiding,
and some have fled the country, while dozens of suspected
enforced disappearance cases have been reported, mostly in
November.
‘Future of all Bangladeshis is at stake’
“These incidents must be independently
investigated, and those responsible must be brought to
justice in fair and transparent trials,” Mr. Türk said.
“Violations and irregularities during the campaign and on
election day itself should also be thoroughly and effectively
investigated.”
“Democracy was hard won in Bangladesh and must not become
cosmetic,” said the High Commissioner. “Bangladesh has
been a role model of development, and I fervently hope this will
translate into the political and institutional spheres too. The
future of all Bangladeshis is at stake.”
