US Ministry Condemns Violence Against Peaceful Protesters
Jul 16, 2024
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the recent statement by US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, who mentioned two deaths in the current student protests in Bangladesh.
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The US State Department strongly condemned recent violence against students and job seekers in Bangladesh. The protests were about changing how government jobs are given out. Matthew Miller, who speaks for the State Department, said he was worried about reports of attacks on peaceful protesters. Two people died, and many were hurt in Dhaka and other places.
"Freedom to speak and gather peacefully are key parts of democracy," Miller said, "We don't like when peaceful protesters are hurt by violence. We feel sorry for them."
The protests started two weeks ago after a court in 2018 said quotas for government jobs should end. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the court has to decide about quotas and warned against protests that could hurt things. After her comments, there were more protests at Dhaka University and other places. People were upset and criticized what she said.
On Monday, there were fights between student protesters and the ruling party's student group, Chhatra League. It led to many injuries. Chhatra League took over parts of Dhaka University, and police came to stop the fighting. Even with tension, protesters kept demanding changes near Curzon Hall, showing the struggles for reform continued.
Addressing the agitating students, Barrister Sumon spoke to reporters at the High Court premises on Tuesday (July 16). He said Barrister Sumon urged, "Please pause the protests for just one month until the court's decision. I can accompany you to meet the Prime Minister. She understands the issues well."
However, I disagree with your approach. You claim to support the government, not the court, but the court doesn't require your support. If needed, I'll act as your lawyer in court for a logical solution. Let's avoid further suffering and violence for the sake of the people."
