The United States contends that the elections in Bangladesh were not conducted in a free and fair manner, while China extends congratulations to Dhaka

The United States has asserted that the national elections held on January 7 were not deemed “free and fair,” while China has extended congratulations to Dhaka for successfully conducting the 12th Parliamentary elections, in which the Awami League led by Sheikh Hasina Wajed emerged victorious despite the boycott by the BNP-Jamaat alliance over concerns about an unbiased election setup.

Matthew Miller, the State Department Spokesperson, stated, “The United States shares the view with other observers that these elections were not free or fair, and we regret that not all parties participated.” He expressed concern about the arrests of thousands of political opposition members, reported irregularities on election day, and condemned the violence surrounding the elections.

The U.S. called for a credible investigation into reports of violence and urged all political parties to reject violence. Despite these concerns, the U.S. remains committed to partnering with Bangladesh to advance a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific and to support human rights, civil society, and strengthen people-to-people and economic ties.

China congratulated Bangladesh for the successful conduct of the 12th parliamentary election and felicitated the Awami League for its victory. Mao Ning, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, expressed support for Bangladesh in implementing political agendas according to its laws.

Pakistan’s Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar congratulated Sheikh Hasina on her re-election and expressed a desire for enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe commended the electoral triumph of the Bangladesh Awami League, highlighting the trust and confidence bestowed by the people in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s capable leadership.

Indian Prime Minister Modi congratulated Sheikh Hasina on her historic fourth consecutive term and applauded the successful conduct of elections, expressing a commitment to strengthening the enduring partnership with Bangladesh.

The Russian Ambassador congratulated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her victory in the General Election.

The U.K. FCDO Statement on the Bangladesh Election condemned acts of intimidation and violence, emphasizing that democratic elections depend on credible, open, and fair competition. It highlighted the absence of all political parties in the elections, limiting the Bangladeshi people’s voting options.