The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

British High Commissioner Stephen Evans said smooth transition to elected government through free and credible elections in December is vital for Bangladesh as the country cannot afford to go on with the politics of confrontation and divisions.

Speaking at DCAB Talks at the National Press Club yesterday, he favoured full lifting of the state of emergency to have greater legitimacy of the election at home and abroad but reminded that public safety is crucial and the voters must be able to cast ballots without facing violence and intimidation.

"All, including the parties, have a role to play in creating the consensus to make this possible," Evans said, adding, "If the provisions of the state of emergency can be visibly rendered unnecessary, then it becomes easier for them to be lifted."

He urged all parties to take part in the election and meet the expectation of the people as he said British interests in this country are best served by a stable and democratic Bangladesh.

The envoy said business and trade cannot thrive on uncertainty and instability and investors would not sow seeds in shifting soils. "This is particularly true at a time of global economic turmoil. It is now hard to attract capital."

He said Bangladesh needs a firm political foundation, with transparency and good governance, and parliament must provide the primary forum for political debate. "There can be no place for political violence or politically-inspired hartals," the envoy noted, in an implicit reference to the country's recent political past.