‘No Fair Poll Without Awami League’: US Signal Raises Hasina Comeback Buzz

Dhaka: The political atmosphere in Bangladesh is becoming increasingly heated before the general elections to be held in February. Discussions are intensifying regarding the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to politics, while international pressure on the interim government and Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus is also clearly visible.

What did American lawmakers say to Yunus?

Some influential US lawmakers have written a formal letter to Yunus warning that if the ban on Awami League is not lifted, the elections will be neither free nor fair. Gregory W., senior member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the US House of Representatives. Meeks, Bill Huizenga, and Sydney Camlager-Dove clearly stated that keeping a major political party out of the election is against the democratic process.

Why were questions raised on the ban on the entire party?

American lawmakers wrote in their letter that banning an entire political organization could take away the right to vote from millions of voters. He says that collectively blaming a party is not in line with the principle of human rights and individual responsibility.

What decisions were taken after the July Uprising?

The letter has been sent at a time when the interim government has banned the Awami League and its student wing, Bangladesh Chhatra League, following the July rebellion. MPs acknowledged that the role of the interim government is important in times of crisis, but the ban on political activities and reactivating the International Crimes Tribunal in its old structure could raise questions about the credibility of the elections.

What issues arose in Yunus's talks with America?

Meanwhile, Muhammad Yunus spoke on the phone with American Special Envoy Sergio Gore. Issues like trade, tariffs, elections, democratic transition, and the assassination of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi were discussed. Yunus said Bangladesh is fully prepared for elections on February 12, and the government will ensure peaceful and fair voting.

Which allegations did Yunus mention?

Yunus also alleged that supporters of the ousted regime were trying to spread violence and disrupt the election process by sending millions of dollars from abroad. He says that the government is ready to deal with every challenge.

What warning did Sheikh Hasina give?

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gave a statement on December 22 saying that an election held without the Awami League would not be a real election but a “coronation.” She said that if the ban on her party continues, lakhs of people will stay away from voting, and such a government will not get moral legitimacy. Hasina blamed the Yunus government for the ongoing violence, attacks on minorities, and the assassination of Sharif Usman Hadi and said neighboring countries, including India, are watching the situation in Bangladesh with concern.