US urges calm in Bangladesh, salutes army role

The United States yesterday called for calm in Bangladesh following the resignation of long-time leader Sheikh Hasina and praised the military for establishing an interim government instead of escalating the crackdown on protesters.

"We urge all parties to refrain from further violence. Too many lives have been lost over the course of the past several weeks, and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead," said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

Hasina had attempted to suppress nationwide protests against her government since early July, but she fled the country after nearly 100 people were killed on Sunday.

Miller mentioned that the United States had received reports that the army resisted pressure to further crack down on student-led demonstrations. "If it is true in fact that the army resisted calls to crack down on lawful protesters, that would be a positive development," he stated.

"We welcome the announcement of an interim government and urge any transition be conducted in accordance with Bangladesh's laws," he added.

When asked if the military should select the next leadership, Miller responded, "We want to see the Bangladeshi people decide the future Bangladeshi government."

He also expressed deep sadness over the reports of human rights abuses, casualties, and injuries over the weekend and recent weeks. "It is vital that we have full and transparent investigations to ensure accountability for these deaths," Miller said.