Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nations, has called on Bangladeshi political parties to resume meaningful dialogue.
He also urged the parties to urgently address the expectations of the people of Bangladesh for an inclusive political process, said a press release issued by the spokesperson for the Secretary General.
The statement read: “The Secretary-General is saddened by the loss of life and incidents of violence that marred yesterday’s parliamentary elections in Bangladesh, which were characterized by polarization and low participation.
“He regrets that the parties did not reach the kind of agreements which could have produced a peaceful, all-inclusive election outcome.”
At least 16 people had died in clashes across Bangladesh on 10th parliamentary polls day.
Ban Ki-moon called on all sides to exercise restraint and ensure first and foremost a peaceful and conducive environment, where people can maintain their right to assembly and expression.
The United Nations would continue to support Bangladesh’s democratic processes in accordance with the principles of inclusiveness, non-violence, reconciliation and dialogue.
