The Honorable Antony J. Blinken
Secretary of State, United States Department of State
2201
C Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20520
Sub: Thanksgiving for the Announcement of a Visa Policy to Promote Democratic Elections in Bangladesh
Dear Secretary Blinken,
On behalf of the democracy-loving people of Bangladesh, I am
writing this letter to express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the
recent announcement of a new visa policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the
Immigration and Nationality Act. This policy demonstrates the United States'
commitment to supporting the goal of holding free, fair, and peaceful national
elections in Bangladesh.
We recognize and commend the United States' decision to restrict
the issuance of visas to individuals believed to be responsible for, or
complicit in, undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh. This
inclusive approach, targeting not only current and former Bangladeshi officials
but also members of pro-government and opposition political parties, law
enforcement, the judiciary, and security services, sends a strong message
against actions that undermine the integrity of our electoral system.
By focusing on activities such as vote rigging, voter intimidation,
violence against peaceful assemblies, and measures designed to stifle the
voices of political parties, voters, civil society, and the media, this visa
policy addresses the critical challenges we face in preserving and promoting
democratic values in Bangladesh. It reaffirms the shared belief that the
holding of free and fair elections is the responsibility of all stakeholders,
including voters, political parties, the government, security forces, civil
society, and the media.
Your announcement has brought hope and
encouragement to those of us who strive to advance democracy in Bangladesh. It
reflects the United States' commitment to supporting democratic processes, good
governance, and human rights around the world. We believe that this policy will
serve as a deterrent to those who seek to undermine our democratic institutions
while empowering and protecting those who work tirelessly to strengthen them.
We express our deepest gratitude to you and
the United States Department of State for taking this significant step to
promote democratic values in Bangladesh. We are confident that this visa policy
will contribute to creating an environment conducive to free and fair
elections, where the voices of the people are respected and their choices are
honored.
Once again, we thank you for your unwavering support for democracy
in Bangladesh. We look forward to continued collaboration between our nations
in promoting democratic principles, fostering good governance, and upholding
human rights.
Please accept our sincere wishes to you and the people of the United States.
Joy Bangla!
With the sincerest gratitude,
Minhaz Samad Chowdhury, Independent HR Defender, 25th May 2023
(Focuses on State Violence against and Land Rights of Minorities in Bangladesh)
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