WASHINGTON: The United States has called on all stakeholders in Bangladesh to “exercise restraint and refrain from violence” as the country approaches its general election on January 7.
During a routine briefing in Washington on Wednesday, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed deep concern over the reported mass arrests and instances of torture of thousands of opposition members.
Miller urged all parties to exhibit restraint, avoid violence, and called upon the government of Bangladesh to collaborate with stakeholders in establishing conditions that enable free and fear-free participation in the pre-election and election environment.
In response to a question about the use of artificial intelligence tools against US and Bangladeshi opposition parties, the State Department spokesperson emphasized the worrying global trend of employing AI for manipulative purposes.
Regarding potential new sanctions, the spokesperson noted the longstanding practice of not previewing sanctions actions before implementation.
