System needs to follow, dialogue before election not necessary: Momen

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has said there is no need to hold political dialogue with the opposition BNP before the next general election and suggested that they follow the system that is in place in the election process.  

“Why do you need a dialogue? Is it to come (to power) through the backdoor? No way. There is no need for discussion as there is a system and they (opposition parties including BNP) should come forward who are willing to take part in the election,” he told Voice of America Bangla service in an exclusive interview during his recent visit to the US.

Momen made a counter question to VoA journalists – “Do the Democratic Party and the Republican Party or other parties discuss before the election? No, never. Because, there is a system. They do follow the system.”

The foreign minister said, “Those whom you are referring to began their journey through guns. They believe in guns not in ballots.”

Momen said his party – Bangladesh Awami League – has trust in the people and that is why they want a “free, fair, transparent and credible election.” “Because we believe in people. We want a model election.”

 The foreign minister said Bangladesh is the country where 30 lakh people sacrificed their lives to uphold justice, democracy, human dignity and human rights. “In each of our blood, democracy is there with the right to vote.”

The United States has reiterated its desire to see a free and fair election in Bangladesh, noting that the world will be observing Bangladesh’s next national election.

“Of course, we’re looking – the world is looking – to Bangladesh for its next election, to make sure that they set a strong example of free and fair election for the region and for the world,” US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken said during his meeting with Momen on April 10..

“I agree with Secretary Blinken. I am so happy that he also wants a model election which can be portrayed in the rest of the world. I want, too and we seek support from all,” Momen told VoA Bangla service

To have a fair election, Momen said all parties should demonstrate sincerity and political commitment.