Antonio Guterres Urges Bangladesh To Include Minorities & Uphold Human Rights Ahead Of Elections

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on Bangladesh’s interim government to prioritize the inclusion of minorities and uphold human rights as the country prepares for its upcoming parliamentary elections.

On Monday, his Deputy Spokesperson, Farhan Haq, conveyed this appeal.

Guterres expressed his solidarity with the people of Bangladesh and voiced support for the interim government’s efforts to restore stability and organize elections.

“The Secretary-General welcomes the initiatives to bring calm and arrange parliamentary elections in Bangladesh with the assistance of the interim government,” Haq stated.

As the country moves closer to the elections, Guterres urged the interim leadership to be inclusive in its approach.

He emphasized the importance of considering the voices of women, youth, and various communities across the nation, particularly minority and indigenous groups, to ensure a fair and representative election process.

The interim government is currently led by Nobel laureate economist Muhammad Yunus, who assumed leadership following the resignation and exile of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India.

Recent reports from Bangladesh highlight escalating violence against Hindus, with their homes and businesses targeted after Hasina’s government fell.

Rana Dasgupta, a leader of the Hindu-Bouddha-Christian Oikya Parishad, reported that turmoil has left over 100 Hindus injured and claimed two lives.

Additionally, 97 incidents of anti-Hindu violence were reported last week, with at least 10 temples being attacked.

The violence has also claimed the lives of around 300 people during student protests against Hasina, which turned violent.

In response to the ongoing unrest, Guterres reiterated his demand for a full, independent, impartial, and transparent investigation into all acts of violence, stressing the need for accountability as Bangladesh moves toward its critical electoral process.

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