The United States has declared that the national elections of Bangladesh on January 7 were not deemed “free and fair.” In contrast, China extended congratulations to Dhaka for conducting the 12 Parliamentary elections, where the Awami League led by Sheikh Hasina Wajed emerged victorious, despite the boycott by the BNP-Jamaat alliance due to concerns about an impartial setup for the polls.
Matthew Miller, the State Department Spokesperson, stated that the US aligns with other observers in considering these elections as lacking in freedom and fairness, expressing regret over the non-participation of all parties.
While acknowledging the Awami League’s majority win, the US remains troubled by the reported arrests of numerous political opposition members and irregularities on election day. Washington condemned the election-related violence and urged the Government of Bangladesh to credibly investigate and hold perpetrators accountable.
The US also called for all political parties to reject violence, emphasizing support for the people of Bangladesh in their pursuit of democracy, peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression.
Looking forward, Miller affirmed the United States’ commitment to partnering with Bangladesh to advance a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, support human rights and civil society, and deepen economic ties.
The US had consistently advocated for free, fair, and peaceful elections, implementing sanctions against the Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) and seven of its members in December 2021. Additionally, the Biden Administration announced a visa policy for Bangladesh, warning of visa restrictions for those undermining democratic elections.
On the other hand, China congratulated Bangladesh on the successful completion of the 12th parliamentary election and hailed the Awami League’s victory. Mao Ning, the spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed support for Bangladesh’s political agendas within the framework of its laws.
She emphasized China’s commitment to fostering the long-established friendship, advancing Belt and Road cooperation, and enhancing the China-Bangladesh Strategic Partnership of Cooperation, based on principles of mutual respect, equal footing, mutual benefit, and non-interference in internal affairs.
