Dhaka: Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today expressed optimism that the upcoming parliamentary election, scheduled for February 12, will be held in a fair and peaceful manner. He shared his views while speaking at the closing session of a training programme organised by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at a city hotel.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Touhid Hossain also mentioned that voter turnout in the upcoming national election is expected to exceed 55 percent, attributing this to political consensus and past electoral participation. He referenced the 1991 national election, where voter turnout stood at 55 percent, expressing confidence that the turnout this time would be even higher.
Addressing questions from attendees, Touhid Hossain noted that there had previously been some confusion among the public regarding the “Yes” vote. However, he pointed out that major political parties have now expressed their support for it. “People usually vote following their party’s position. Since the major parties are now in favour of the ‘Yes’ vote, I think it will pass quite easily,” he added.
On a separate topic, the adviser commented on Pakistan’s decision regarding participation in the World Cup cricket tournament, emphasizing that it is an internal matter. “Pakistan never said they would not play; they said they would consider it. Our decision not to play in India is our own, and whether Pakistan plays or not is entirely up to them,” he stated.
During the event, Hossain also touched upon the influence of foreign diplomats in domestic matters, suggesting that their involvement is driven by a significant segment of society that desires their input. “We cannot always place the blame on them,” he remarked in response to a question.
The event also featured remarks from Stefan Liller, UNDP Resident Representative in Bangladesh. The programme was chaired by DCAB President A K M Moinuddin, with DCAB General Secretary Abu Hena Imrul Kayes also addressing the audience.