The US has reportedly revoked the visa of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, said television channels CNN News18 and Pakistan-based Geo News.
In recent years, the relationship between the Sheikh Hasina administration and the United States has been fraught with tension. The US has repeatedly expressed concerns about the state of democracy in Bangladesh, especially after Hasina’s Awami League party won a straight fourth term in January 2024.
These concerns triggered the imposition of visa restrictions on Bangladeshi politicians and officials, including members of law enforcement, the ruling party, and others who were believed to be complicit in undermining the democratic election process. US State Department had refused to name people citing privacy issues.
In May 2023, Secretary of State Antony Blinken's warned that the possible visa restrictions were a sign that the US would not tolerate elements that jeopardised free and fair elections in Bangladesh. However, Bangladeshi Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen had dismissed the US sanctions, stating that Bangladesh could conduct its elections without external interference.
Notably, after returning to power in January, Hasina alleged that a "white country" was conspiring against her. She claimed that she was promised a hassle-free re-election if she allowed a foreign country to build an air base in Bangladesh. This allegation deepened the mistrust between Dhaka and Washington.
After Hasina stepped down yesterday and fled Dhaka, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated that the US wanted Bangladeshis to decide their government's future, in keeping with democratic principles and the rule of law.
In a note to Americans in Bangladesh, the US embassy in Dhaka said: “Due to the unpredictable and volatile nature of the current situation, and the potential for increased violence, US citizens should shelter in a safe place, and strongly consider returning to the United States when safe to do so.
“Further violence connected to the government transition is possible. Gatherings and additional protests are unpredictable and may materialize quickly. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news for updates.
“US Embassy Dhaka is open for limited operations only, and all routine consular services have been cancelled from August 5-7. U.S. mission personnel are currently sheltering in place.”
