Online Desk: US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas has asked Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal why road protection for them has suddenly been lifted by the government. Ambassador Haas asked the question visiting Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal at the latter’s office at Bangladesh Secretariat in the capital on Wednesday (May 31) afternoon. Besides, they talked about the recently introduced US visa policy for Bangladesh. In response, the Home Minister said the system was changed.

“The US Ambassador was informed that road protection will be provided by Ansar Guard Regiment. At the same time, he was informed that security at the diplomatic zone would not be allowed to hamper. Steps would be taken so that the diplomats can freely move in the diplomatic  zone,” he said.

The government withdrew additional security measures for the ambassadors of four countries including the United States on May 15 last. At that time, the government said additional security had been provided to the ambassadors of four countries since the militant attack on Holey Artisan Bakery at Gulshan on July 1, 2016. In the context of existing law and order, there is no need to provide additional security to the four ambssadors. Now, if any country feel for the additional security, they can avail it through Ansar. Because of it, Ansar Guard Regiment has been developed through providing special training.

Replying to a question of a journalist, Asaduzzaman Khan said, “They wanted some time on the issue of road protection. They were told that those (Ansar Guard Regiment) who were being provided for security of the diplomats on road are very trained. If necessary, we can sit for further consultation on the issue. If we feel there is any lacking of security, we will look into the matter.”

They were also told that they will also have to pay for this additional security, said the Home Minister. Referring to the new US visa policy, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal also said the United States’ new visa policy is their own internal matter. They have wanted to know the reaction of Bangladesh in this regard. “We told them that Awami League would hold a free and fair general election. No election will be held in the country using musclemen and barrels of guns. The United States have been informed that the election will be free, fair and participatory,” he said.

An hour-long meeting between the Home Minister and US Ambassador was held at the secretariat. However, Ambassador Peter Haas declined to say anything else about the meeting. Asaduzzaman Khan said Awami League doesn’t believe in any kind of conspiracy. It also doesn’t believe in any muscle power. “Awami League wants to go to power with the people’s votes.”