The Biden Administration has emphasized the need for a democratic interim government in Bangladesh following the sudden resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Her abrupt departure has plunged the country into chaos, exacerbated by violent anti-quota protests.
State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stressed the importance of allowing the Bangladeshi people to determine their government’s future. “We want to see the Bangladeshi people decide the future of the Bangladeshi government,” Miller stated during a daily news conference.
Prime Minister Hasina’s resignation and subsequent flight out of the country in a military aircraft left a significant power vacuum, promptly filled by the army, which announced the formation of an interim government. The news of her departure incited further unrest, with hundreds storming her residence, causing extensive damage and looting. These events are a stark reflection of the widespread anti-government sentiment that has resulted in over 300 deaths in recent weeks.
Hasina has since landed at the Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad, reportedly en route to London.
The U.S. government is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh, with Miller calling for an immediate cessation of violence and accountability for recent deaths. “All decisions regarding the interim government should be made with respect to democratic principles, rule of law, and the will of the Bangladeshi people,” he said.
He further emphasized the necessity for legal accountability, stating, “Now, as to what accountability looks like, that’s something that should take place under Bangladeshi law. Obviously, anyone responsible for acts of violence, acts that break the law should be held accountable for them.”
When asked about the possibility of Hasina seeking asylum in the United States, Miller indicated that he was not aware of any such request. He also highlighted the importance of thorough and transparent investigations into the recent violence to ensure justice for the victims.
“With respect to the violence over the past few weeks and the deaths that have occurred, it is vital that we have full and transparent investigations to ensure accountability for these deaths. As relates to the interim government, we think that it’s important that we focus on the Bangladeshi people’s democratic aspirations and see a path to democratic governance,” Miller explained.
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He reaffirmed the value of the U.S.-Bangladesh relationship, expressing a desire for its continuation. “We want to see that continued. I would just urge everyone with requests or questions about what the future may entail, we are not even 12 hours out from the reported resignation of the prime minister.”
Miller reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to the people of Bangladesh, urging all parties to refrain from further violence. “Too many lives have been lost over the course of the past several weeks and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead,” he said. He welcomed the announcement of an interim government and called for any transition to be conducted in accordance with Bangladesh’s laws.
Miller also expressed condolences for the recent human rights abuses and casualties. “We are deeply saddened about the reports of human rights abuses, casualties, and injuries over the weekend and past weeks. We share our deepest condolences with those who have lost loved ones and those who are suffering,” he said.
A White House National Security Council spokesperson echoed these sentiments, noting that the situation in Bangladesh is being closely monitored. “The United States has long called for respecting democratic rights in Bangladesh, and we urge that the interim government formation be democratic and inclusive,” the spokesperson said.
The NSC spokesperson commended the army for their restraint and urged all parties to avoid further violence and restore peace swiftly. “We express our deep concern and sadness about the reports of casualties and injuries over the weekend and past weeks, and we share our deepest condolences with those who lost loved ones and those who are suffering. It will be vital for the new government to carefully and credibly investigate all attacks, and provide accountability and justice for the victims,” the spokesperson added.
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