We share Hasina's support for free and fair polls: US state dept
The United States has reiterated its support for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's efforts to hold a free and fair election in Bangladesh.
"I think what we will say is Prime Minister Hasina has committed to supporting free and fair elections. We share her support for free and fair elections," said Matthew Miller, spokesperson of the US Department of State, during a regular briefing at the state department.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. He made the remarks when asked whether the US was urging for a neutral caretaker government to hold a free, fair election.
Earlier, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the next national election in Bangladesh will be held in a free and fair manner under her government upholding democracy and voting rights of the people.
The US State Department Spokesperson said the policy that they announced is designed to support those efforts by the prime minister, as well as the efforts of the Bangladeshi people to having elections where the Bangladeshi people can choose their leaders.
"And I will say lastly, as friends, we have expressed our concerns where we see actions that undermine democracy and human rights in Bangladesh," said the spokesperson.
BNP has been calling for holding parliamentary elections under a neutral caretaker administration.
The US announced yesterday that it would impose visa restrictions on individuals and their immediate family members "if they are responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh".
The US has indicated its new Bangladesh-specific visa policy will help Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government in its efforts to hold free and fair elections.
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