Geneva, Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, urged the newly elected government of Bangladesh to commit to renewing democracy and upholding human rights. He expressed concern over the conduct of Sunday’s elections, marred by violence and suppression of opposition candidates and supporters.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Türk highlighted the troubling pre-election environment in Bangladesh, which included arbitrary detentions of thousands of opposition supporters, intimidation tactics, and acts of violence. These measures, he stated, hindered a truly genuine democratic process.

The UN Human Rights Chief called on the Bangladeshi government to take necessary steps to ensure that the rights of all citizens are considered and to reinforce the foundations of an inclusive democracy. He pointed out the use of mass arrests, threats, enforced disappearances, blackmailing, and surveillance by law enforcement officials prior to the elections. The main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, boycotted the ballot in response to these actions.

Türk also raised serious concerns about the treatment of opposition supporters, citing that around 25,000 had been arrested since October 28, including key party leaders. At least 10 opposition supporters reportedly died or were killed in custody over the last two months, prompting fears of possible torture or harsh detention conditions.

The situation for human rights defenders in Bangladesh is increasingly precarious, with many forced into hiding or fleeing the country. Dozens of enforced disappearance cases, mostly reported in November, add to the growing list of human rights concerns.

Türk emphasized the need for independent investigations into these incidents and for those responsible to face justice in fair and transparent trials. He also called for thorough investigations into violations and irregularities during the campaign and on election day.

Concluding his statement, Türk reflected on the hard-won democracy in Bangladesh, urging that it must not be reduced to a mere facade. He expressed hope that Bangladesh’s role as a model for development would extend into its political and institutional realms, underscoring the future of all Bangladeshis.