In light of recent political upheaval, both the US and EU have expressed their desire for calm in Bangladesh following the fled of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India. The call for a peaceful transfer of power comes after weeks of escalating protests against her administration, which has faced growing criticism over its handling of dissent.
Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, highlighted the urgency of the situation saying, “In recent weeks, many lives have been lost. We urge restraint and calm in the days ahead. We welcome the announcement of a caretaker government, and any power transition should occur in accordance with Bangladeshi law.”
The unrest has seen significant violence, with reports indicating that nearly 100 protesters were killed during clashes on Sunday alone. Images circulated on social media captured moments of chaos as Hasina was seen boarding a helicopter leaving the capital, Dhaka.
Josep Borrell, head of foreign policy for the European Union, emphasized the importance of ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition to an elected government that fully respects human rights and democratic principles. He stated, “It is vital that a structured process is initiated to restore democracy in Bangladesh.”
The protests originally ignited over alleged job allocation irregularities in government positions, with over 50% of roles reportedly earmarked for specific groups. As dissatisfaction grew among students and various factions within society, Hasina’s government attempted to quell dissent through increasing force.
With ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh prompting a humanitarian crisis, global powers are closely monitoring developments in hopes of restoring stability while advocating for democratic reform. The international community continues to stress the necessity of dialogue and non-violence as crucial steps toward improving conditions in Bangladesh.
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