Dhaka: Canada has encouraged all involved in the electoral process to work together in fostering a peaceful campaign environment, enabling the people of Bangladesh to participate safely in free, fair, inclusive and credible elections.

‘Canada stands by the people of Bangladesh and supports all voters in the full exercise of their democratic rights and freedoms in the context of national election on December 30,’ Canadian High Commissioner in Dhaka Benoit Prefontaine said in a statement on Sunday, reports the UNB.
He said peace and security are the cornerstones of democracy.  ’Acts of violence and intimidation undermine the legitimacy of the democratic process.’

The High Commissioner said the pre-election campaign should be carried out in a calm and responsible manner by all concerned.

‘This includes protection of the political and electoral rights of minority and other vulnerable groups and ensuring free space for civil society,’ he added.