BM Report:

In a defiant statement, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Abdul Momen declared he’s more concerned with the voice of the Bangladeshi people than the opinions of Western nations regarding the recent elections.

Speaking to journalists, Momen dismissed questions about how Western countries would view the polls. He questioned the journalist’s faith in the Bangladeshi electorate, asserting, “The people have chosen their government. That’s all that matters. We believe in them, not in any Westerner.”

Momen evoked Bangladesh’s struggle for independence, highlighting that only the United Kingdom stood by them while achieving their freedom. “We, the people, made it happen,” he emphasized, reiterating the primacy of internal validation.

He expressed gratitude to the voters for braving intimidation tactics deployed by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). “They threatened violence, even setting fire to a train,” Momen said, “But the people chose to vote, showing their trust in the process.”

Dismissing allegations of voter fraud, Momen declared the elections “free, fair, and credible.” He commended the Election Commission’s efforts and asserted there was no manipulation. However, he acknowledged the slow voting process, citing delays faced by both himself and his constituents.

A touch of amusement entered Momen’s voice when addressing the early-morning visit of the American observer team. “They went to a polling station at dawn, expecting to catch ballot-stuffing in the dark!” he chuckled, questioning the logic.

Regarding the foreign observer teams’ discussions on the BNP, Momen revealed they inquired about easing tensions with the opposition. “They didn’t criticize,” he clarified, suggesting the onus for reconciliation lies with the opposition.

He challenged the BNP’s sole demand for the Prime Minister’s resignation, calling it “unrealistic and unproductive.” He compared it to the American political system, asking, “Does Biden resign before every election? No. Dialogue is the path forward.”

When pressed about the future of the opposition, Momen opted for patience. “Let’s wait for the official results,” he said, refusing to speculate.

Momen’s statement sends a clear message of self-reliance and voter confidence. He prioritizes domestic validation over external scrutiny, signaling a focus on internal cohesion and development in the post-election landscape.