Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has sought the support of US Senator Gary Peters to counter “misinformation” surrounding recent attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.
The issue was discussed during a meeting between the two at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Tuesday, according to the Chief Advisor’s Office.
A statement from the office said the hour-long meeting focused on matters of mutual interest and ways to strengthen ties between the two friendly nations.
Senator Peters told Yunus that many Bangladeshi-origin residents in his constituency, including those in Detroit, Michigan, had expressed concerns over recent attacks on minorities.
“There has been a massive spread of ‘misinformation’ regarding these attacks, some of which has reached the US, creating anxiety among minority communities,” he said.
Reassuring the US senator, Yunus said his government is committed to upholding the human rights of every citizen, regardless of race, religion, gender, or social identity.
He clarified that the attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, following the political changeover in August last year were politically, not religiously, motivated.
However, his administration has taken swift action against the perpetrators.
The chief advisor invited Senator Peters to visit different cities and towns across Bangladesh to witness the state of religious harmony firsthand.
He also urged other US politicians, journalists, and human rights activists to travel to Bangladesh for a clearer picture of the situation.
“We need your help. Please tell your friends to travel to Bangladesh. This way we can combat these misinformation campaigns,” he said.
Senator Peters also enquired about the interim government’s reform initiatives, key commission reports, and plans for free and fair elections.
Yunus said if political parties agreed to limited reforms, elections could be held in December.
However, if they opted for a broader package of reforms, the general elections would take place a few months later.
“The election will be free and fair. It will be held in a festive mood. There will be big celebrations on election day, like the ones we have seen in the past,” Yunus said.
He added that political parties would sign a “July Charter” once they agreed to the reforms proposed by the major commissions.
“The July Charter will set the country’s future course,” he said.
Senator Peters lauded the government’s reform agenda and said the US looked forward to a smooth democratic transition in Bangladesh.
The two leaders also discussed social businesses, a world without poverty, and microcredit as a tool to combat poverty, not only in the US but globally.
