US closely monitoring developments in Bangladesh leading up to election
The United States is closely monitoring developments in Bangladesh leading up to the elections, US state department spokesperson Matthew Miller has said.
The US official made the remark while answering queries of newsmen at the regular briefing of the state department on Monday.
It was said the Bangladesh’s political situation escalated ahead of the opposition grand rally scheduled for 28 October and the regime is in action to obstruct the rally, including arresting, framing charges, and also with trials rolling well into the night.
Regarding the matter, Miller said, "I don’t think I have anything to say about that specific allegation. We are closely monitoring developments in Bangladesh leading up to the elections. It’s important for free and fair elections that all stakeholders are able to participate peacefully. That includes government officials, law enforcement, political parties, the election commission, the media, and of course voters themselves."
The report of Human Rights Watch was cited as stating that the ruling prime minister Hasina herself incited violence, and her cabinet ministers made threats of using Russian uranium against opposition the leaders.
How does the State Department view this allegation? And what actions, if any, is the United States considering regarding the democratic rights of the people of Bangladesh?
Matthew Miller said, "We will continue to call on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and to refrain from violence, harassment, and intimidation."
While asking another question about Bangladesh, referring to the recent meeting with the National Security Advisor, it was said, Bangladesh ruling prime minister has claimed that she asked the National Security Advisor why US was asking for their embassy personnel's security from the law enforcement agencies as US has imposed sanctions on their security forces?
Ambassador Peter Haas expressed concern not only for his security but for the embassy personnel too. You many times asked from this podium to uphold the Vienna Convention, so what is your comment on this?
Miller said, "I will say it again, which is that under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, Bangladesh has obligations to take all appropriate steps with respect to protecting diplomatic premises and personnel, and the United States values its relationship with Bangladesh and we expect the government will take all appropriate actions to maintain the safety and security of all US missions and diplomatic personnel in the country."