Commonwealth secretary-general set to begin first official visit ahead of polls

Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey is set to begin her first official visit to Bangladesh today, engaging with a wide range of stakeholders at a pivotal moment in the country's political journey.

Her four-day visit, running until November 24, comes ahead of the general election expected in February next year, the Commonwealth said in a statement yesterday.

In Dhaka, the Secretary-General is scheduled to meet key figures in the interim government, including Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, political party leaders, the chief election commissioner, high commissioners, and other representatives.

Discussions will focus on areas of mutual interest, including strengthening ongoing engagement to support continued national progress in line with the people's aspirations for peace, stability, democracy, good governance, and prosperity.

During the engagements, the secretary-general will also brief stakeholders on the Commonwealth's new Strategic Plan, which places democracy among its three core pillars and listen to how tailored support can best assist the people of Bangladesh.

Speaking ahead of her visit, Botchwey described Bangladesh as a valued member of the Commonwealth, noting that it was the first intergovernmental organisation the country joined soon after independence.

"The Commonwealth and Bangladesh have a strong partnership, one that matters even more now as the country heads towards the polls next year.

"In keeping with the values of the Commonwealth Charter, I will engage with a wide range of stakeholders to understand the context first-hand and explore where we can offer informed support in the spirit of partnership and mutual respect.

"Our shared commitment with Bangladesh remains supporting a peaceful, inclusive and participatory environment, where the rights and fundamental freedoms of every citizen are respected."

She added that she wishes the people of Bangladesh well as they prepare to exercise their right to vote and reaffirmed the Commonwealth's full support for them on their democratic journey.

The visit follows last month's mission by a Commonwealth pre-election assessment team, which met stakeholders across the political spectrum to assess the overall pre-poll environment.