In a press briefing on Wednesday, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted the need for the interim government in Bangladesh to make decisions that adhere to democratic values. He expressed optimism that the interim administration, headed by Mohammed Yunus, will help foster enduring peace and political stability in the country. “… I have already spoken to the interim government in Bangladesh and what steps we want to see it carry out as it moves forward,” Miller said.
When questioned about his expectations from the new government, Miller stated, “To make stability, to build the institution, and to arrange a free, fair, inclusive election…As the interim government makes decisions moving forward, we want to see them do so in a way that respects democratic principles.” When inquired about whether Sheikh Hasina’s visa status would stay the same, Miller noted that visa records are protected by US law and declined to offer additional information.
Bangladesh Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that the interim government’s oath-taking ceremony is scheduled for Thursday evening. He also indicated that the interim administration could initially comprise of approximately 15 members.Top of FormBottom of Form
“We are making every effort to hold the oath-taking ceremony tomorrow (Thursday). There was a proposal to hold it in the afternoon. However, that would result in a very tight schedule because Dr Yunus is expected to arrive in the country around 2:10 pm. It would be difficult to arrange the ceremony after that. Therefore, we may hold it around 8 pm. The arrangement will accommodate a total of 400 people,” Zaman mentioned during a press briefing at the Army Headquarters on Wednesday.
Bangladesh is experiencing a turbulent political climate, with Sheikh Hasina resigning from her position on August 5 amid escalating protests. These demonstrations, primarily led by students advocating for the removal of a quota system for government jobs, evolved into broader anti-government protests. Following her resignation, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening.
On Tuesday, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of Bangladesh’s parliament to facilitate the formation of an interim administration, according to the Dhaka Tribune. The interim government will be led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, as reported by the Dhaka Tribune.