British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke on Sunday said her country is encouraging “free, fair, participatory and peaceful” elections in Bangladesh. She said fair elections will help Bangladeshi citizens exercise their democratic rights. Read:  UN expresses desire to see a fair, peaceful election in Bangladesh: Obaidul Quader  “We had a very constructive introductory discussion,” High Commissioner Cooke told reporters after her first meeting with Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal and his team. She said they discussed the vital roles of strong democratic institutions, media, and civil society. The British high commissioner said they also discussed the role of independent observers during the election. Talking to reporters, the CEC said High Commissioner Cooke wanted to know the Election Commission’s efforts for ensuring that journalists can work freely. Read: UK keen to boost trade and investment with Bangladesh: Sarah Cooke tells PM Hasina He said the media raised the demand regarding the use of motorcycles.  The CEC said they were considering whether it would be misused or not.  Some — using muscle power— might create problems, taking advantage of motorcycle use. “Keeping that in mind, we made a provision,” said the CEC. Read: I’m committed to deepening Bangladesh-UK extensive cooperation: Sarah Cooke At the meeting, Election Commissioner Anisur Rahman and EC Secretary Md. Jahangir Alam were also present. Bangladesh Election Commission is taking preparations to hold the next national election in December this year or January next year.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday said her government will do everything necessary to ensure the civic and democratic rights of the people.

Gonoshasthaya Kendra founder Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury on Friday alleged that the current government has established ‘one-party Baksal’ rule in the country under a different cover by ‘snatching’ people’s democratic rights.