Khairul Alam: The United States has announced the imposition of visa restrictions on individuals responsible for obstructing democratic processes in Bangladesh, but the ruling Awami League has stated that they are not concerned about this move, according to the party’s international spokesperson, Dr. Shammi Ahmed.
Dr. Shammi Ahmed stated, “This is not new. They have previously announced visa policies regarding this matter.
I don’t think there is any pressure on us. Our only concern is to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections. We will do just that.”
Furthermore, Dr. Shammi Ahmed commented, “I don’t believe there is any fear or apprehension within the Awami League about this.
If they had implemented such visa policies in 2014 and 2018, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) would not have been able to cause unrest and turmoil across the country. So, I don’t think there’s any reason for the Awami League to be worried.”
Prior to this announcement, on May 27, the United States had declared its visa policy aimed at individuals who are considered responsible for hindering the democratic election process in Bangladesh.
While the policy applies to any Bangladeshi, it specifically mentions current and former government officials, members of both ruling and opposition political parties, law enforcement personnel, the judiciary, and members of the security forces.
Today, it was revealed that the visa restrictions are now in effect.
In a similar move, on December 10, 2021, the United States had imposed visa restrictions on the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and its former personnel in Bangladesh.