US slams violence against quota reformists

BD rebuts US claims

FE REPORT | Published: July 17, 2024 00:12:55

The United States has condemned the use of violence against students protesting for quota reforms in Bangladesh, calling for respect for democratic principles and protection of peaceful assembly rights.
Matthew Miller, spokesperson for US State Department, during a regular press briefing on Monday, expressed concern over reports of violence against protesters.
He made the observations as his attention was drawn to the latest happenings in Bangladesh concerning students demanding a merit-based system, not quota, for civil service jobs and the use of violence against them.
"So, what is your stance on this ongoing messy protest in Bangladesh?" asked the questioner.
In reply, Mr Miller said: "So, we are aware of and are monitoring reports of widespread student protests in Dhaka and around Bangladesh that have killed two and attacked and injured hundreds," according to the website of the US State Department.
"The freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are essential building blocks of any thriving democracy, and we condemn any violence against peaceful protesters."
"Our thoughts are with those who have been impacted by this violence," concluded Mr Miller.
Meanwhile, Dhaka has expressed extreme disappointment over Washington's unsubstantiated claim of deaths of at least two persons on Monday, reports UNB.
"Such baseless claim can fuel the violence and undermine Bangladesh government's efforts," said Seheli Sabrin, spokesperson for foreign ministry on Tuesday.
"The use of unverified information to make such baseless claims can fuel violence and undermine Bangladesh government's efforts to maintain a peaceful environment to allow non-violent protests or movement."
She says the foreign ministry is "extremely disappointed" by the response of Mathew Miller, spokesperson for the US State Department, to a question during a regular press briefing on July 15.
During the briefing, Mr Miller made unsubstantiated claims of at least two deaths in the ongoing student protests in Bangladesh.
Ms Sabrin says freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are cornerstones of democracy, and the government remains steadfast to uphold those rights of citizens and safeguard public property and order.
She said violence does not have any place in democracy and politics.