The United States has reiterated that it will work with whichever government is elected by the people of Bangladesh, underscoring its neutral stance ahead of the country’s upcoming national election
US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen made the remarks on Wednesday following a courtesy meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) M M Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission headquarters in Agargaon.
Speaking to reporters, the ambassador said Washington would respect the outcome of the polls, stressing that the choice of leadership rests solely with Bangladeshi voters. “Only the people of Bangladesh have the right to determine the outcome of their elections,” he said, adding that the United States does not take sides in domestic political contests.
Christensen said discussions with the CEC focused on preparations for the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election and the accompanying referendum, including administrative readiness and the overall electoral environment.
Referring to a recent meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, the envoy said he had been encouraged by assurances that the election would be inclusive and participatory. He expressed optimism that voters would be able to cast their ballots freely.
“I am very optimistic about the upcoming elections,” Christensen said. “I hope this will be a festive election where people can express their views without fear, and I look forward to observing both the process and its outcome.”
The ambassador added that a transparent and credible election would strengthen democratic institutions and reinforce international confidence in Bangladesh’s political system.
Election Commissioners Abdul Rahmanel Masud, Begum Tahmida Ahmed, Md Anwarul Islam Sarkar and Brigadier General (retd) Abdul Fazlul M Sanaullah were present at the meeting, along with Election Commission Secretary Akhter Ahmed.
Bangladesh is preparing to hold its next parliamentary election amid heightened political attention at home and abroad, with international partners closely watching developments around electoral integrity and voter participation.
