DHAKA: The High Commissioners of Australia and Canada Thursday expressed their concern about the many reports of electoral irregularities and violence during the City Corporation

elections in Dhaka and Chittagong on April 28.

Australia and Canada saw the elections as an important opportunity to build confidence and strengthen democratic process in Bangladesh following a significant period of conflict between the Government and its opponents.

The two High Commissioners called on the Election Commission and all responsible authorities to swiftly and impartially investigate the reports of irregularities and violence, and to ensure that individuals found to have broken the law are held to account.

The two High Commissioners called on all parties to conduct themselves within peaceful, lawful and democratic bounds. “The people of Bangladesh deserve to be able to live their lives in a climate of peace, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.”

Australia and Canada value their close and long-standing relationships with Bangladesh.

BDST: 1546 HRS, APR 30, 2015
AKA