The United States has reiterated its support for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's efforts to hold a free and fair election in Bangladesh.
"I think what we will say is Prime Minister Hasina has committed to supporting free and fair elections. We share her support for free and fair elections," said US Department of State Spokesperson Matthew Miller.
He made remarks when a questioner wanted to know whether the US is urging a neutral caretaker government to hold a free, fair election.
Earlier, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the next general election in Bangladesh will be held in a free and fair manner under her government upholding democracy and voting rights of the people.
The US State Department Spokesperson said the policy that they announced is designed to support those efforts by the Prime Minister, as well as the efforts of the Bangladeshi people to have elections where the Bangladeshi people can choose their leaders.
"And I will say lastly, as friends, we have expressed our concerns where we see actions that undermine democracy and human rights in Bangladesh," said the Spokesperson at a regular briefing at the US Department of State.
Making comments on US State Department Spokesperson, Dhaka University Prof Delwar Hossain said remarks appear that the US has "full confidence" in the commitment of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh to ensuring free and fair elections.
"As a long-practising democracy, the US knows well that the issue of the neutral caretaker government is not the main factor. US elections are held under the incumbent administration," he told UNB.
The government and other stakeholders can work together towards holding free and fair elections in Bangladesh, said Prof Delwar who teaches international relations.
BNP reiterated the call for holding parliamentary elections under a neutral caretaker administration.
The United States has indicated its new Bangladesh-specific visa policy will help Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government in its efforts to hold free and fair elections.
