The July-August uprising in Bangladesh, leading to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, was credited solely to the Bangladeshi people, according to former US diplomat Jon F. Danilowicz. He emphasized the importance of accountability and civil society in achieving democracy, while acknowledging past US foreign policy flaws. The discussion highlighted ongoing efforts to promote democratic values and the need for international cooperation in supporting Bangladesh’s reforms.

Former US diplomat Jon F. Danilowicz asserted that the July-August uprising, which resulted in the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is solely credited to the people of Bangladesh. He emphasized that the movement was organically born and developed within the country. During a discussion hosted by the Center for Governance Studies, he stated, “The people of Bangladesh alone, deserve credit for the end of the previous dictatorship and for this fourth opportunity to build a democracy.”

Danilowicz, alongside former US ambassador William B. Milam, participated in discourse regarding Bangladesh’s political landscape and its relationship with the United States. Various diplomats, members of civil society, and students attended this significant event held at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies. He remarked on the upcoming elections, asserting that the decision regarding Awami League’s participation is ultimately up to the Bangladeshi people.

On accountability, Danilowicz elucidated that election participation alone is insufficient, noting the importance of the International Crimes Tribunal process. He recognized past US foreign policy shortcomings and highlighted how the current interim government in Bangladesh appears to be learning from historical mistakes.

Danilowicz, with Milam, underscored the US commitment to fostering democratic values in Bangladesh, stressing the necessity of international collaboration to achieve democratic stability. Milam noted efforts to enhance American public awareness of Bangladesh’s political dynamics through targeted initiatives in the past five years.

Highlighting a consistent US policy towards Bangladesh since its independence, Danilowicz stated that a robust civil-military relationship is essential for democracy to thrive, warning against the dangers of authoritarian governance. Furthermore, he addressed allegations of misinformation concerning US military activities, branding them as baseless rumors that undermine bilateral relations.

Danilowicz urged alignment in funding policies between the US and the European Union and emphasized the importance of an active civil society. He proposed that Bangladesh recover misappropriated assets from the past 17 years to enhance governance reforms. The dialogue also acknowledged the essential role of expatriates and the media in fortifying accountability and democratic governance in the country.

The question-and-answer session allowed attendees to engage with both speakers, facilitating a rich exchange of ideas concerning the future of Bangladesh-U.S. relations and democracy within Bangladesh.

In summary, the discussion highlighted the pivotal role of the Bangladeshi populace in instigating political change and emphasized the need for accountability within the country’s political framework. The speakers reaffirmed the US’s commitment to supporting democratic developments while advocating for collaborative efforts with civil society and expatriates. Dialogues around media influence and the importance of recovering embezzled assets further stressed the necessity of comprehensive reforms for a sustainable democratic future in Bangladesh.

Original Source: www.tbsnews.net

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