Mushfiqul Fazal, State Department correspondent
During a recent briefing, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller addressed concerns over the mass arrest of political opposition members and reported irregularities during Bangladesh's January 7 elections.
Miller emphasized shared views with other observers that the elections were not free and fair.
In response to my question about the US's stance, Miller expressed regret over the non-participation of all political parties and condemned the election-related violence. He stated, "We do remain concerned by the arrest of thousands of political opposition members and by the reports of irregularities on election day. We share the view with other observers that these elections were not free and fair. We regret that not all parties participated, and we condemn the violence that took place during elections and in the months leading up to it."
Miller added, "We are now encouraging the Government of Bangladesh to credibly and transparently investigate the reports of violence, to hold perpetrators accountable, and we all urge all parties to reject political violence."
Inquiring further, ARY correspondent Jahanzaib Ali questioned whether the US's criticism implied non-recognition of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's fourth consecutive term. The State Department spokesperson replied, "No, no."
MR/
