Despite warm congratulations from India, Russia, China, and numerous nations in Asia, Africa, and South America, the United Nations, the United States, and the United Kingdom have expressed reservations about the recent elections in Bangladesh, describing them as "not free or fair." Sheikh Hasina's Awami League secured a historic fourth term, winning 223 seats out of 300, in polls that were boycotted by the main opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
The US State Department expressed concern about the arrests of thousands of political opposition members and reported irregularities on election day in Bangladesh. The United States, along with other observers, deemed the elections not free or fair and regretted the non-participation of all parties. The State Department urged the government to investigate reports of violence and hold perpetrators accountable while encouraging political parties to reject violence.
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk called on the newly elected government to renew its commitment to democracy and human rights, expressing distress over the marred environment during the polls, marked by violence and repression against opposition candidates and supporters. The UN raised serious concerns about the arbitrary detention of thousands of opposition supporters and possible torture or harsh conditions of detention.
The United Kingdom stated that standards of credible and fair competition were not consistently met during Bangladesh's parliamentary elections, emphasizing that not all political parties participated, limiting the voters' options. The UK expressed concern about the significant number of arrests of opposition party members before polling day.
In contrast, India, China, Russia, and several other nations congratulated Sheikh Hasina on her historic re-election. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally congratulated Hasina, emphasizing India's commitment to strengthening the enduring partnership with Bangladesh. Other countries, including Sri Lanka and China, also conveyed their congratulations and support for Bangladesh's political agenda.
While the international community's reactions are mixed, Bangladesh's diplomatic engagements continue with calls for renewed commitments to democracy and human rights amid concerns raised by the UN, the US, and the UK.
(With Agency Inputs)
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