Staff Reporter :
The United Nations (UN) has expressed serious concerns regarding the political situation in Bangladesh, urging the swift restoration of democratic governance under the country’s interim government.
During a press briefing at the United Nations Headquarters, Deputy Spokesman for the Secretary-General, Farhan Haq, highlighted the UN’s ongoing engagement with the transitional authorities in Bangladesh.
He stressed the necessity for a clear and prompt timetable for the interim government to achieve key objectives, including justice, economic stability, the establishment of the rule of law, and the return to democratic rule.
“We are in touch with the current transitional government in Bangladesh,” Haq stated.
He further emphasised the importance of an inclusive and transparent process in the formation of the government, expressing hope that this would facilitate the rapid restoration of democratic governance.
“We hope that there will continue to be an open, inclusive process of government formation and that there can be a quick timetable for the restoration of democratic rule,” Haq added.
The exact duration of the interim government’s tenure remains uncertain.
However, the United Nations continues to advocate for a rapid and transparent transition towards a fully functional and accountable government in Bangladesh.
In addition to these concerns, Haq voiced deep apprehension over the recent attacks on journalists in Bangladesh, particularly in relation to the ongoing student movement.
“We are against all attacks on journalists anywhere for any reason. And we are alarmed at the reports of attacks that have taken place,” he affirmed.
He came up with the response when the journalist asked that three journalists were killed and many injured during the student movement.
Even after Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, left Bangladesh on August 5, the media and many journalists were attacked.
The rooms of the president and secretary of the National Press Club in Dhaka have been ransacked.
In view of this situation, whether the United Nations has any comments or statements?, Haq condemned these acts of violence, stressing that the safety of journalists is crucial for the protection of free and open discourse.
Since the unfolding of the unrest in Bangladesh, the United Nations has been monitoring the situation closely, urging the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the protection of fundamental freedoms, including freedom of the press, as the country navigates this transitional period.