United States urged that the formation of an interim government in Bangladesh adhere to “democratic principles,” expressing support for an end to violence and a call for accountability.
This insistence on “democratic principles” comes in light of Bangladesh's history of military coups.
US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the need to halt violence and ensure accountability in his statement during the daily briefing.
“All decisions about the interim government must align with democratic principles, the rule of law, and reflect the will of the Bangladeshi people,” Miller said.
The military in Bangladesh assumed control of the country following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and escape amid escalating protests on Monday.
Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced her resignation, stating, “I am taking responsibility now, and we will approach the President to establish an interim government to lead the country temporarily.”
Bangladesh’s first military coup occurred in 1975, shortly after gaining independence. The country’s inaugural Prime Minister, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with most of his family, was assassinated in this coup.
Following two additional coups within the same year, General Ziaur Rahman took over and remained in power until his assassination by military officers in 1981.
"What we're looking for is a restoration of the democratic order," Miller told reporters.
"We want the Bangladeshi people to be able to have a say in their own government, and that will be our theme in the days and weeks ahead."
Miller further said, "There needs to be a full and transparent investigation into the deaths in the recent violence," which some estimates say could number as many as 300.
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