Staff Reporter :
The United States has reaffirmed its position that it does not support any particular political party in Bangladesh, emphasising its commitment to a free and democratic process, alongside fair and transparent legal proceedings for all individuals.
Thomas Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the US State Department, made these remarks during a press briefing on Tuesday in response to the Bangladesh interim government’s controversial decision to prohibit the Awami League – Bangladesh’s largest political party – from engaging in political activities pending the outcome of a special tribunal investigation into the party and its leadership.
“We are aware that the interim government has suspended all political activities of the Awami League until a special tribunal completes its investigation into the party and its leaders. We do not support any political party in Bangladesh over another,” Pigott stated.
He further reiterated that the United States supports a free and democratic process, as well as fair and transparent legal processes for all individuals.
“We urge all countries, including Bangladesh, to respect the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association for all,” Pigott said, underscoring the US’s commitment to democratic norms.
When asked about allegations involving Dr. Asif Nazrul, a legal advisor to the interim government, and his reported meeting with Harun Izhar, an alleged member of the Lashkar-e-Tayyiba terrorist group, Pigott refrained from offering further details but reiterated Washington’s long-standing partnership with the people of Bangladesh.
“We value our partnership with the people of Bangladesh, which spans over 50 years, and remain committed to strengthening this relationship by working with the interim government,” he affirmed.
The United States’ statement follows a similar concern expressed by India earlier on Tuesday regarding the suspension of Awami League’s political activities. India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, voiced apprehension about the decision, stating, “The imposition of restrictions on the Awami League without due process is a troubling development.
” He further noted, “As a democratic country, India is naturally concerned about the erosion of democratic rights and the shrinking of political space,” emphasising India’s support for “the immediate holding of free, fair, and inclusive elections in Bangladesh.”
The ban on the Awami League, imposed by Bangladesh’s interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, is reportedly tied to the party’s alleged involvement in crimes against humanity during the July Mass Uprising last year, in which hundreds, including students, lost their lives.
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has already found evidence of these crimes, allegedly committed at the direction of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The tribunal has listed five serious charges against Hasina and other individuals in connection with the crimes.
In light of this development, the Election Commission of Bangladesh issued a gazette notification on Monday suspending the Awami League’s registration as a political entity.
