The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has rebuked US State Department Spokesperson Mathew Miller's recent remarks that 2 people have died during the clashes amid the anti-quota protests in Bangladesh.
"We are extremely disappointed by the response of Mr Mathew Miller, Spokesperson of the US State Department to a question during a regular press briefing yesterday, 15 July 2024 Washington time, where he made unsubstantiated claims of at least two deaths from the ongoing student protests in Bangladesh," MoFA said in a statement on Tuesday (16 July).
"Use of unverified information to make such baseless claims can fuel violence and undermine Bangladesh government’s efforts to maintain a peaceful environment to allow non-violent protests or movement," it added.
It also stated that freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are cornerstones of Bangladesh's democracy, and the government remains steadfast to uphold those rights of the citizens while also safeguarding the public property and order.
"Violence has no place in democracy and politics," the statement further read.
It drew a parallel to a recent incident in the US, where former US President Donald Trump survived an attempt on his life during an election rally in Pennsylvania.
The Bangladeshi government expressed deep concern over this act of violence, noting that it goes against the core values of democracy.
Meanwhile, at a press briefing on Tuesday, MoFA Spokesperson Seheli Sabrin also said the remarks by the US State Department spokesperson were "disappointing".
She reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to working with the US to uphold democratic values and principles, stressing the importance of collaboration to prevent violence and promote peace.
When specific information on the State Department’s claim was sought from the US Embassy in Dhaka, its acting spokesperson Leonard Hill told media that the statement was “monitoring reports” that included the injuries and deaths.
“We are always looking for the most accurate information and welcome journalists’ work to uncover the truth,” he said.
