‘US not labeled the Jan 7 polls as flawed’

Staff Reporter :
Awami League (AL) General Secretary Obaidul Quader addressed the media on Sunday, clarifying the stance of the United States regarding Bangladesh’s recently held 12th parliamentary elections.

Quader emphasised that the US has not labeled the elections as flawed but expressed the intention to maintain relations with the current government, citing mutual interests between the two nations.

During the press conference held at his secretariat office, Quader, who also serves as the road transport and bridges minister, stated, “The United States did not say that the 12th national election was not free and fair.

They will continue relations with the current government as both the countries have mutual interests here.” Quader dismissed claims of electoral misconduct, asserting that the election was peaceful, with no reported violence.

He addressed concerns about the absence of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), stating that their decision not to participate did not undermine the fairness of the electoral process.

“We may have different perspectives on what constitutes a free and fair election. The absence of the BNP in this election does not diminish its credibility as free and fair,” Quader remarked.

Addressing potential strains in the diplomatic relationship with the United States, the AL general secretary assured that Bangladesh would not deteriorate its ties with the US. He emphasised the importance of maintaining strong relations, acknowledging the shared interests between the two nations.

Earlier in the day, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen paid a courtesy call on Obaidul Quader at the Bangladesh Secretariat. Quader highlighted the potential role of China in the repatriation of Rohingya refugees, considering the burden it poses on Bangladesh.

“The ongoing global crisis has led to a decrease in aid flow to the Rohingyas, posing a significant burden for Bangladesh in providing for their needs,” Quader noted. He suggested that China could play a role in pressuring Myanmar to repatriate its citizens. The Chinese envoy responded positively, expressing a commitment to enhance cooperation in addressing this matter.

Quader also addressed concerns about tension on the Myanmar border, attributing it to the internal conflict between the Arakan Army and the Myanmar Army. He sought China’s intervention to address the situation and discussed ongoing mega projects funded by China, including the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project.