The US has warmly welcomed the interim government’s announcement of a potential timeline for Bangladesh’s upcoming general elections.
The US Department of State spokesperson Vedant Patel also praised the interim government under Muhammad Yunus for taking the initiative to look into the hundreds of people who were allegedly forced to disappear during the Awami League regime.
At a routine briefing on Wednesday, a reporter questioned Patel about the United States’ position on Yunus’s comments regarding holding elections by the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026.
In response, Patel said, “We applaud the actions taken by this interim government of Bangladesh to get ready for elections that will eventually let the people of Bangladesh select their own representatives in government.”
We will monitor the timing of this matter closely, and we will undoubtedly encourage adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law throughout the entire process, should a transition occur. Across the globe, we would support peaceful, free, and fair elections.
The New York Times released a report from an inquiry commission in Bangladesh that examined the issue of enforced disappearances.
A journalist seeking the attention of the US State Department spokesperson stated, “The commission report finds involvement in a former prime minister.” In the past, those involved in enforced disappearances faced sanctions from the US. Have you got any thoughts on that?
“The reports of hundreds of Bangladeshis forcibly disappearing over the past 20 years have deeply troubled us,” stated Patel. A grave violation of human rights—enforced disappearance—causes its victims to suffer from the trauma of indefinite detention or disappearance. Families suffer from the trauma of uncertainty as well.
“The interim government’s efforts to look into these crimes are greatly appreciated, and we support fair and open procedures that will bring justice to the victims and their families.”
