Washington: The United States stated on Monday that it supports “an end to violence and need for accountability” and that any choices on forming an interim government in Bangladesh must be made “concerning democratic principles.”
The history of military takeovers in Bangladesh should be considered while evaluating the US emphasis on “democratic principles.”
“We are focused now on supporting an end to the violence and for accountability,” US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement he read at the daily briefing here.
“All decisions regarding the interim government should be made concerning democratic principles, rule of law, and the will of the Bangladeshi people.”
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned on Monday amid growing protests. Reportedly, the military has since assumed control of the nation.
“I am taking responsibility now and we will go to the President and ask to form an interim government to lead the country in the meantime,” stated Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman in announcing her resignation.
The first military coup in Bangladesh occurred in 1975, not long after the nation attained independence.
In a military coup, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the first Prime Minister and Hasina’s father, and the majority of his family were slain.
Following two additional coups in the same year, General Ziaur Rahman came to power and held it until 1981, when a group of military men killed him.
“What we want to see is democratic order,” Miller said in response to a question.
“We want to see the Bangladeshi people choose their government. And that’s what we will be looking for in the days and weeks ahead.”
The spokesperson also underscored the need for a “full and transparent investigation to ensure accountability for the deaths during the protests in preceding days.
Some estimates have put the toll at 300.
–IANS
