Dhaka: The Vatican has expressed hope for free, fair, just, and transparent elections in Bangladesh, while making it clear that it does not wish for any particular outcome. “As Bangladesh prepares for elections, the Holy See stands alongside of you to wish a process that is free, fair, just, and transparent,” Vatican Ambassador to Bangladesh Archbishop Kevin S. Randell stated during a ceremony marking Pope Day at the Vatican Embassy in Dhaka. The event coincided with the visit of Cardinal George Jacob Koovkad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Inter-religious Dialogue.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Cardinal Koovkad, who began his visit on September 6, has led a series of dialogues, including visits to the National Mosque, meetings with Islamic scholars, and stops at a Hindu temple and a pagoda in Dhaka. Archbishop Randell emphasized that the Holy See does not support any political party, form of government, or individual, nor does it seek a particular election result. He noted that the half a million Christians in Bangladesh, both Catholics and Protestants, will vote according to their consciences, just like other citizens.
On inter-religious dialogue, Archbishop Randell remarked that such engagement brings hope and aids in striving for peace, solidarity, healing, and justice in a world marked by extremism, hatred, and war. He advocated for building bridges and being the Good Samaritan to reach out to others in need, emphasizing that societies should not be filled with fear and hate. He asserted that no religion should promote values of fear and hate or be used to justify violence.
The Vatican envoy also recalled Pope Francis’ visit to Myanmar and Bangladesh in 2017 following the Rohingya exodus, during which the Pope prayed for peace and expressed deep concern for the displaced community. Archbishop Randell stated that these displaced persons deserve a home and dignity, praising the interim government for hosting the victims of conflict and calling for stronger international support for the Rohingya. He mentioned that Pope Leo XIV has also expressed grave concern and prays for this support.
Education Adviser Professor C. R. Abrar, addressing the event as chief guest, highlighted that Bangladesh’s relationship with the Holy See is rooted in shared values of peace, compassion, and mutual respect. He reaffirmed the collective commitment to building bridges of peace, upholding justice, and ensuring that no one is left behind regardless of faith, ethnicity, or background. Professor Abrar expressed hope that the commitment to common humanity would transcend all religious, cultural, and social divides.