US neutral in Bangladesh elections, trusts people's verdict - US Ambassador

The new US Ambassador to Dhaka, Brent Christensen, has made it clear that the US will not take any political side in the upcoming national elections in Bangladesh. He said that the US is ready to work with the government that the people of Bangladesh elect. He told reporters after a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Building in Agargaon in the capital on Wednesday (January 28).

Regarding the meeting, Christensen said that he had a fruitful and positive discussion with the CEC. The discussion focused on the overall preparations for the February 12 national elections. He also said that the Chief Election Commissioner had informed him in detail about the policies, preparations and processes adopted by the interim government to organize the elections.

The US ambassador also said that he was optimistic about the environment and organization of the elections. He said that the elections were discussed in a meeting with the Chief Advisor last week. At that time, the chief advisor expressed hope that the upcoming elections would be festive and participatory. Expressing the same expectation, Christensen said that he believes that a peaceful and joyful election will be held in Bangladesh.

The US ambassador also highlighted his own interest. He said, “As I said during the hearing in the US Senate, I am excited about the upcoming elections in Bangladesh. I look forward to seeing the results of these elections.”

All in all, the new US ambassador in Dhaka once again made clear the message that the US position on the elections in Bangladesh is based on an impartial and democratic process.