Fakhrul, UN envoy discuss polls, Rohingya issue

UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, Gwyn Lewis, on Sunday met BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and had a constructive discussion on the country's current political situation, the upcoming election, the democratic future of Bangladesh, and the Rohingya issue.

The hour-long meeting, which began at 11am, was held at the BNP Chairperson's office in Gulshan.

Talking to reporters after the meeting, BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said the United Nations has a commitment to help restore the democratic order in Bangladesh.

To achieve this, he said, there must be democratic practices and mutual understanding among political parties.

The BNP leader said their party believes all must work together to bring back the democratic order in the present context.

He said people's main demand right now is the restoration of democratic order. "That can only be ensured through a free, fair, and participatory election. We also discussed how the election, expected in the first half of February, can be held successfully."

The BNP leader said the Rohingya issue was also part of the discussion and they talked about the situation of the Rohingyas, who were living in extremely difficult conditions.

"The discussion covered how the Bangladesh government and the international community can continue to work together to support them (Rohingya) . Ms Lewis assured that the UN's support for the Rohingyas will continue until they can return to their homeland," he said.

Praising Gwyn Lewis, Amir Khosru said they appreciated her contribution to democracy and human rights during difficult times in Bangladesh.

>>Saiful Alam, AA