Dhaka [Bangladesh]: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is expected to visit Bangladesh in mid-March, amid ongoing political and security tensions in the country, officials confirmed.
The visit follows a recent trip by UN Special Envoy on Myanmar, Julie Bishop, who met with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna. Bishop stated that Guterres will also visit the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar as part of his tour.
“The UN Secretary-General will visit Bangladesh. We are still working out his final programs,” said Md Touhid Hossain, Foreign Affairs Adviser of Bangladesh, without providing further details.
According to sources, the three-day visit is set to begin on March 13. The visit is considered highly significant given the political unrest and security concerns in the country.
Bangladesh Army Chief Warns Against Political Divisions
Meanwhile, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has warned that the country’s sovereignty could be at risk if political factions continue their disputes instead of working together.
“I am warning you. If you cannot forget your differences and work together, if you engage in mudslinging and fighting, the independence and sovereignty of this country and nation will be at stake,” he cautioned during an event in Dhaka.
He urged unity, stating, “This country belongs to all of us. We all want to live in peace and harmony. We do not want conflicts or fights. We are working towards that goal.”
Upcoming Elections and Political Reforms
Addressing the upcoming national elections, General Waker-Uz-Zaman reassured that Bangladesh is on track for a free, fair, and inclusive election. He emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing necessary reforms before the polls.
“Every time I spoke with Dr. Yunus, I completely agreed with him that there should be a free, fair, and inclusive election. The election should be held within December or close to that. Initially, I mentioned holding an election within 18 months, and I believe the government is heading in that direction,” he added.
The political climate in Bangladesh remains tense, and Guterres’ visit is expected to play a crucial role in discussions on democracy, security, and the ongoing Rohingya crisis.