C T Online Desk: Shakhawat Sabbir | Special Correspondent : Commonwealth Secretary-General Sharlie Botchway has arrived in Dhaka for a four-day official visit, a significant development as Bangladesh prepares for the national elections scheduled for February 2026.
The Commonwealth Secretariat says the 20–24 November visit will deepen engagement with political leaders, the interim government, the Election Commission, diplomats, and civil society representatives. During her stay, Botchway is expected to meet Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, senior government officials, major political parties, and the Chief Election Commissioner to review the country’s pre-election context.
Discussions will centre on peace, political stability, democratic governance, and opportunities to enhance Commonwealth cooperation. Botchway will also introduce the organisation’s new Strategic Plan, which places strong emphasis on democracy, and evaluate what forms of support Bangladesh may require during the election period.
Her visit follows the Commonwealth’s Pre-Election Assessment Mission last month, reaffirming the organisation’s continued commitment to promoting a peaceful, inclusive, and participatory electoral process in Bangladesh.
