However, Hasina has hit back, claiming that the US is attempting to "eliminate democracy" in her country and replace it with a government that would not have a democratic existence. She accused the US of having the power to "overthrow the government of any country", particularly in Muslim countries. This comes as Derek Chollet, the US State Department counselor, expressed concern about the decline of democracy in Bangladesh, warning that it would limit American cooperation with Dhaka and urging Hasina to ensure free and fair elections.
In addition to the US, Hasina has also criticized Bangla-language newspaper Prothom Alo, calling it an enemy of the Awami League, democracy, and the people. The prime minister accused the newspaper of never wanting stability in the country and being elated when an emergency was declared in 2007. This criticism follows the recent arrest of Prothom Alo reporter Shamsuzzaman Shams, who was detained under Bangladesh's Digital Security Act for allegedly writing false news about rising food prices. The Act has been criticized by many as a draconian law with provisions for lengthy jail sentences.
Hasina's allegations against the US are likely to raise tensions between the two countries, with the Bangladeshi government previously accusing foreign powers of meddling in its internal affairs. However, critics argue that the government's use of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings against political opponents undermines the country's democracy and human rights record.
