US Raises Objection On Bangladeshi Elections

US Raises Objection On Bangladeshi Elections. The national elections that took place on January 7 in the United States drew contrasting responses from different nations. While China extended congratulations to Dhaka for the successful completion of the 12th parliamentary elections, the United States expressed dissatisfaction, deeming the elections as not “free and fair.” In particular, the victory of the Sheikh Hasina Wajed-led Awami League, amid the boycott by the BNP-Jamaat alliance, further heightened the international scrutiny of the electoral process.

Matthew Miller, the State Department Spokesperson, conveyed the U.S. perspective, emphasizing alignment with other observers in labeling the elections as neither free nor fair. The United States expressed regret over the non-participation of all parties and voiced concerns about the arrests of thousands of political opposition members and reported irregularities on election day. Moreover, the U.S. strongly condemned the violence that occurred during the electoral period and urged the Government of Bangladesh to conduct credible investigations into reports of violence, holding perpetrators accountable. The call for all political parties to reject violence and the expression of support for the people of Bangladesh and their democratic aspirations were key components of the U.S. stance.

Looking beyond the immediate aftermath of the elections, the United States reiterated its commitment to partnering with Bangladesh for a free and open Indo-Pacific, emphasizing support for human rights and civil society. The statement also referenced the imposition of sanctions against Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) and its members in December 2021 by the Biden Administration, emphasizing consequences for those undermining democratic elections through visa restrictions.

On the other hand, China’s response reflected a positive outlook on Bangladesh’s electoral process. Mao Ning, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, congratulated Bangladesh on the successful completion of the 12th parliamentary election and extended felicitations to the Awami League for its victory. Highlighting China’s amicable and close relationship with Bangladesh, Mao Ning expressed firm support for Bangladesh in implementing its political agendas in accordance with its laws post-election. China pledged to work with the new government to strengthen their long-established friendship, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and advance the China-Bangladesh Strategic Partnership of Cooperation.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar also joined in extending congratulations to Sheikh Hasina on her re-election as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Kakar expressed optimism about enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, signaling a positive stance toward fostering stronger bilateral ties.

In essence, the differing responses from the United States, China, and Pakistan underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding the recent elections in Bangladesh, reflecting varied perspectives on the democratic processes and outcomes in the South Asian nation.

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