Comfort Ero, president of the International Crisis Group, highlights that the interim government must prioritize consensus among political entities to ensure free and fair elections in Bangladesh. She notes the importance of setting a level playing field and addresses the Rohingya crisis as a significant challenge requiring adaptive strategies. Overall, the need for accountability and addressing historical conflicts is emphasized to prevent further violence and ensure stability.
The interim government’s primary objective is to foster consensus among political parties in Bangladesh to ensure inclusivity in the electoral process, emphasized Comfort Ero, president of the International Crisis Group (ICG). She cautioned that without a fair and level playing field, unresolved critical issues could lead to a disputed election.
Following the July uprising, Bangladesh has garnered international attention, prompting significant reforms from the interim government as it approaches national elections. Under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus, multiple reform commissions have been established. The National Consensus Commission is now pivotal in navigating these changes amid growing political tensions.
The country’s largest political party, the BNP, advocates for elections with minimal reforms, while newer parties push for more significant changes. Discussions also revolve around the potential banning of the Awami League, particularly with ongoing murder cases against its leaders. Ero highlighted the necessity for all political factions to converge on core principles to guide reform initiatives, advocating for the July charter as a foundational document.
Ero acknowledged the interim government’s commitment to dialogue, participation, transparency, and inclusion, albeit expressing skepticism about resolving all fundamental issues before the elections. She asserted the importance of collaboratively addressing the roots of conflict to prevent worsening grievances, acknowledging the deep-seated political rivalry in Bangladesh.
She pointed out that neglecting these issues increases the likelihood of further violence, suggesting that Bangladesh has the potential to leverage past tragedies toward meaningful reforms. While accountability for historical crimes is essential, Ero stressed the need for a justice process that avoids the perception of vengeance, as this would compromise national stability.
Additionally, Ero discussed the deteriorating situation concerning the Rohingya crisis, exacerbated by dwindling funding and ongoing conflicts in the region. The absence of active conflict in the Rohingya’s area is overshadowed by a military blockade that hampers the flow of goods and services. She voiced concerns over armed attacks from Rohingya groups affecting relations between the Arakan Army and Bangladesh.
Ero proposed that neighboring countries, including Bangladesh, must adapt their security strategies in light of evolving border realities and emphasized the necessity for engagement with these complexities to facilitate safe repatriation for the Rohingya.
In conclusion, the interim government of Bangladesh faces a critical challenge in building consensus among political parties while navigating the complexities of electoral reforms. The insights provided by Comfort Ero underscore the importance of addressing historical grievances and ensuring accountability for past crimes to foster a stable political environment. Furthermore, the evolving Rohingya crisis necessitates a strategic engagement approach for national security and humanitarian relief.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
