Bangladesh News

The US-based National Democratic Institute (NDI) yesterday said a free and fair election with all-party participation should be held at the earliest possible time to strengthen the country’s democratic system.

The observation came when a three-member delegation of the organisation working to expand democracy worldwide met Awami League (AL) President Sheikh Hasina to exchange views on the next parliamentary polls.

NDI Director (Asian affairs) Peter Manakis said they would assist in the electoral process including preparation of a flawless voter list.

Hasina thanked them for detecting flaws in the current electoral roll.

After the meeting at the AL chief’s Sudha Sadan residence, NDI Resident Director Dr Owen Lippert told reporters that they are now observing the political parties’ thinking in the changed political scenario.

He said the NDI would offer all sorts of cooperation in holding a free, fair and credible election in Bangladesh.

“We are ready to share our expertise in training the field level election officials, if the authorities concerned want,” he added.

AL President’s Political Secretary Saber Hossain Chowdhury told reporters that they have discussed mainly the current political situation.

They told the NDI delegation that they want an election within the shortest possible time, he said adding that the NDI could train workers of the political parties so that they could contribute to preparing a correct voter list.

Saber said the NDI could also undertake a long-term observation mission to watch the preparation of the voter roll.

“We have asked them to send observers immediately,” he added.