Make parliament more functional
UN chief urges ruling and opposition parties
United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon yesterday urged both the ruling and opposition parties to come forward to make parliament more functional.
“Bangladesh also faces the challenge of ensuring that its parliament can function as it is meant to do in a democratic society,” he said while addressing a special convocation of Dhaka University (DU).
At the ceremony, President Zillur Rahman, also DU chancellor, conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws degree (Honoris Causa), along with a crest, on Ban Ki-moon on behalf of the university.
DU Vice-Chancellor Prof AAMS Arefin Siddique welcomed Ban Ki-moon at DU Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban.
Ban Ki-moon said it is essential to hold future elections in Bangladesh in a manner that is free, fair, credible and fully manageable.
About the establishment of the War Crimes Tribunal and other important issues, he said, “These issues are difficult, to be sure. Yet for any nation, dealing with the darker aspects of the past is essential to create unity and build a healthy, brighter future.”
He pointed out that Bangladesh struggles with issues involving exploitation and abuse of females. These crimes go unpunished very often, he said, urging all to fight against such violations of human rights.
About Bangladesh's contribution to UN peacekeeping, he said, “You are the world's top contributor to UN peacekeeping. One in every ten peacekeepers around the world is a Bangladeshi.”
He also said Bangladesh's pioneering work with microcredit has transformed the lives of the poor worldwide.
On the occasion, President Zillur appreciated the DU saying that it is not only a centre for pursuing knowledge but also a hub for fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the country's people.
In another programme, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon yesterday urged all stakeholders to give collective efforts for ensuring medical care for all women and children and reducing infant mortality, and deaths during child birth.
He made the call at a meeting on “Every Woman, Every Child” initiative held at Sonargaon Hotel in the city. Brac, ICDDR,B, Global Compact and United Nations Foundation , sponsored the event.
In 2010, the UN chief launched “Every Woman, Every Child” initiative, a united effort of some Bangladeshi leading NGOs and business organisations to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
Brac Chairperson Fazle Hasan Abed said Bangladesh has achieved significant progress in reducing maternal mortality rates.
Finance Minister AMA Muhith, was also present.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments