Dhaka, Jan 29: Uncertainty is increasing over Bangladesh’s February 12 elections as US engagement declines and support for democratic institutions weakens, according to Mark Warner, chairman of the US Senate Intelligence Committee. In an exclusive interview with IANS, Warner said he could not assess whether the polls would be free and fair, citing reduced American influence on the ground.Warner attributed this decline to the dismantling of US soft power mechanisms, including USAID, under the Trump administration, which weakened Washington’s connections in Bangladesh. He said there was early optimism following political changes in the country and the emergence of Mohammad Yunus as a short-term caretaker, but that optimism has since faded. According to Warner, younger political actors are finding governance more difficult than expected.
He noted that regional dynamics could further complicate the situation, pointing to possible resentment in Bangladesh linked to the former prime minister reportedly taking refuge in India. Despite the uncertainty, Warner said he remains hopeful that the elections will be democratic.
Beyond politics, Warner highlighted ongoing challenges facing Bangladesh, including poverty, economic pressures, and environmental risks. He cautioned against exaggerating concerns about extremism, stating that radical Islamic ideology has not significantly emerged in the country.
Placing Bangladesh within India’s wider security environment, Warner stressed that instability in Bangladesh, along with developments in Myanmar and Pakistan, has long-term implications for India. He warned that reduced US development and democracy-building efforts have diminished American leverage during sensitive political transitions in South Asia.