US wants free, fair polls, not caretaker govt: Momen

GBNEWS24DESK//

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen today said the United States does not want a caretaker government but wants free and fair elections in the country in accordance with the existing laws.

He made this remark in response to a question regarding his recent meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, after a donation campaign in Sylhet City this afternoon, reports our Sylhet correspondent.

“The United States wants to be a partner in Bangladesh’s development journey. That’s why we attracted their special attention. … They want our upcoming elections to be free and fair,” the foreign minister said.

Momen said, “They don’t want a caretaker government. … We told them what we have done for a fair election. We have prepared a voter list with photos, made transparent ballot boxes, and formed a strong election commission. They are happy with that.”

“They want us not to fight during the election. A few people died on January 6 [during the Capitol riot] in their country. That’s why they want Bangladesh to hold an ideal election and show the world,” he added.

Terming Bangladesh “the land of magic”, Momen said, “We can do whatever we want. Years after Rana Plaza incident, we now have eight out of 10 most eco-friendly factories in the world.”

Momen said transparent elections depend on active cooperation from all parties and segments of the public.

He said, “Sheikh Hasina government is determined to conduct free and fair elections. All other parties should also come forward with sincerity. I don’t know any other way to form government except elections.”

Regarding the discussion on the Digital Security Act with the US Secretary of State, he said, “We have said that in some cases it has not been used properly. But, all the countries of the world have such laws, even the USA has tougher laws. We will rectify any deviations. They are satisfied with that. They do not want to repeal the law, but to stop misuse of it.”