UNB:

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for calm and urged all concerned in Bangladesh to refrain from violence, reduce tensions and exercise maximum restraint in order to preserve a peaceful electoral environment as the country heads to elections in February.

The UN Secretary-General condemned the killing of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi and extended his condolences to his family.

The UN Chief called on the authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial investigation, in line with international human rights standards.

“I have been asked about the current situation in Bangladesh, and I can tell you that the Secretary-General condemns the killing of a youth protest leader, Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, and extends his condolences to his family,” said Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General, during a regular briefing at the UN Headquarters on December 19.