Polls were not free and fair: US

The United States has condemned the violence that occurred during and before the 12th Parliamentary Elections in Bangladesh, and has also expressed concern regarding the reports of irregularities.

A statement issued on Monday (January 8) by Matthew Miller, spokesperson of the US State Department, reads, "The United States supports the people of Bangladesh and their aspirations for democracy, freedom of peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression.  The United States notes the Awami League party won a majority of seats in the January 7, 2024 parliamentary elections.  

"The United States remains concerned by the arrests of thousands of political opposition members and by reports of irregularities on elections day.  The United States shares the view with other observers that these elections were not free or fair and we regret that not all parties participated."

The statement adds, "The United States condemns violence that took place during elections and in the months leading up to it.  We encourage the Government of Bangladesh to credibly investigate reports of violence and to hold perpetrators accountable.  We also urge all political parties to reject violence."

Lastly. the US also reiterated that it remains committed to partnering with Bangladesh to advance a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, to supporting human rights and civil society in Bangladesh, and to deepening people-to-people and economic ties.

/KN/