Dhaka, January 20, 2024-- In the aftermath of the recently concluded January 7 elections in Bangladesh, the ruling Awami League finds itself basking in the glow of international recognition as powerful nations across the world extend congratulations to the newly formed Sheikh Hasina government. The elections were marked by a significant absence, as the country's major opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), chose to boycott the one-sided electoral process.
The 12th parliamentary elections saw a unique scenario where the main competition unfolded between Awami League-nominated official candidates and its independent candidates. Many skeptics believed that the Sheikh Hasina government would struggle to garner recognition from the development partners of Bangladesh, especially given the contentious nature of the election.
Surprisingly, while the opposition in the 12th parliament remains undecided, independent candidates secured 62 parliamentary seats, the second-largest share. Notably, all independent candidates are from the ruling Awami League. Despite this, the newly sworn Sheikh Hasina cabinet continues to receive global acclaim, bringing joy and satisfaction to the Awami League.
Sources within the party reveal that, following the controversial general elections in 2014 and 2018, there were concerns about the international community's recognition. However, the cloud of frustration lifted as global appreciations for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina poured in, easing worries within the party.
Powerful nations, including Russia, China, and India, wasted no time in extending their congratulations to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her reelection. The timely endorsements have further boosted the morale of the Awami League and solidified their confidence in the international arena.
Discussing the matter, AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader stated, "Despite numerous conspiracies by our arch-rival BNP to mar the January 7 polls, the elections were conducted in a free, fair, and credible manner. This is why the Sheikh Hasina government is receiving global acclaim."
When reached for comment, AL Joint General Secretary Mahbubul Alam Hanif expressed satisfaction, saying, "We are pleased with successive global appreciations. The world's recognition serves as a fitting response to the conspirators."
In the latest development, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sent a congratulatory letter to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, expressing warm wishes on her re-election. The letter also highlighted the strong partnership between the United Nations and Bangladesh. Secretary-General Guterres acknowledged Bangladesh's significant contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations, emphasizing the nation's crucial role in maintaining global peace and security.
The letter commended Bangladesh's generosity towards Rohingya refugees, recognizing the country's compassionate response to one of the most significant humanitarian crises in the region. The global support for Sheikh Hasina's government reflects a positive outlook on Bangladesh's political landscape, indicating a potential shift in international perception following the recent elections.
The Secretary-General lauded Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), recognizing Bangladesh's efforts in working towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. The SDGs address a range of global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and sustainable development.
"I am also appreciative of your participation in the Global Crisis Response Group and trust that I can continue to count on your support in our ambition to address growing global challenges, including the fight against climate change and the pressing need to reform the international financial architecture," wrote Secretary-General Guterres in the letter, highlighting the shared commitment to tackling pressing global issues.
Furthermore, Guterres expressed his confidence in Bangladesh's active participation in the Global Crisis Response Group, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the challenges faced by the international community. This includes the urgent need to combat climate change and the ongoing efforts to reform the international financial system for greater sustainability and fairness.
"The United Nations remains committed to working with your government, including through the United Nations Country Team, for the benefit of the people of Bangladesh," Secretary-General Guterres added.
Meanwhile, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland has extended her congratulations to Sheikh Hasina on her re-election as Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
In a congratulatory letter addressed to the Bangladesh Prime Minister, Scotland expressed, "The (Commonwealth) Secretariat stands ready to support you as Prime Minister of Bangladesh in continuing your important work."
She conveyed her pleasure in writing to Sheikh Hasina after her re-election, stating, "Please accept my warm congratulations and my best wishes as you begin your new term in office."
Highlighting Bangladesh as a valued member of the Commonwealth family, Scotland emphasized the shared values enshrined in the Charter, including peace, democracy, and sustainable development.
Scotland acknowledged Bangladesh's active involvement and leadership within the Commonwealth, appreciating contributions on issues such as oceans stewardship, climate change, digital innovation, trade and investment, youth, gender equality, and mental health.
