Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina disclosed that she had been offered a “smooth return to power” in exchange for leasing the country’s land for a foreign airbase. Although she didn’t name the proposer directly, Hasina hinted that the offer came from the US, describing the individual as a “white man.”
Very recently, the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Donald Lu, embarked on a 3-day visit to Bangladesh. Donald Lu’s third visit to Bangladesh in 17 months signals a shift in tone. While previously appearing more politically involved, he now emphasizes deepening US-Bangladesh relations post-election.
You Can Also Read: WHAT BRINGS DONALD LU TO DHAKA?
A white man offered me a smooth return to power in exchange for a base in Bay- PM Sheikh Hasina
The Prime Minister stated she emphatically rejected the proposal, stressing her unwavering commitment to national sovereignty and her refusal to mortgage the country’s resources for the sake of staying in power.
She said, “I replied that I am the daughter of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. We liberated this country through a war. I do not want to gain power by renting or giving certain parts of my country to anyone. If people in the country want it, I will come to power.”
This statement came amidst a backdrop of ongoing speculation and political tensions surrounding foreign interests in St. Martin’s Island. The US State Department, however, denied making any such proposal, reaffirming their respect for Bangladesh’s sovereignty.
Rejection Likely Led to Heightened Pressure
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s firm rejection of the offer to lease St. Martin’s Island for an airbase, emphasizing Bangladesh’s sovereignty, likely led to increased pressure from the US, particularly in the lead-up to the 12th National elections.
The US expressed serious concerns over the integrity of the electoral process and the state of political repression in Bangladesh. Washington leveled criticism at the conduct of the elections, highlighting the arrests of thousands of opposition members (Despite records saying otherwise) and reports of widespread irregularities (which were later proven unfounded by foreign observers).
Despite this mounting pressure, Hasina relied on her popular support to secure her position. In response to the situation, the US introduced a targeted visa policy aimed at those deemed to be undermining the electoral process.
Allegations of BNP’s Plans to Sell St. Martin’s Island
“BNP came to power in 2001 by giving pledging to sell gas. Now they want to sell the country. They want to come to power by pledging to sell St. Martin’s island,”
–Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina leveled serious accusations against the BNP, alleging that the opposition party had planned to sell St. Martin’s Island in order to secure US support and facilitate their return to power.
The Prime minister drew parallels to the BNP’s gas sale pledge in 2001, suggesting that the party was willing to make similar deals to regain political control. The Prime Minister strongly emphasized her own refusal to compromise national assets for political gain, underlining her commitment to protecting Bangladesh’s interests.
“I will just say that it is not accurate. We respect Bangladesh’s sovereignty, and we have never engaged in any conversations about taking over St. Martin’s Island.”
– Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the US Department of State
In response to these allegations, the US firmly denied any interest in acquiring the island, reaffirming its respect for Bangladesh’s sovereignty. These heated exchanges between the ruling party and the opposition have further intensified the political tension in the country while highlighting the strategic importance of St. Martin’s Island in the regional context.
The Strategic Value of St. Martin’s Island for the US
St. Martin’s Island holds significant strategic interest for the US due to its advantageous location in close proximity to key maritime routes, which makes it a valuable asset for military logistics and operations.
NOTE: Bangladesh has been incorrectly labeled as leaning towards China, while in actuality the nation maintains neutrality.
Gaining access to the island would greatly enhance the US’s ability to monitor regional activities, particularly the movements of China, which has been expanding its influence in the area. Despite the apparent strategic benefits, the US has firmly denied any plans to take control of the island, emphasizing its respect for Bangladesh’s sovereignty.
“The US wants Saint Martin’s Island and they want Bangladesh in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad). They are doing everything to destabilize the current government,”
– Rashed Khan Menon
However, some Bangladeshi politicians, such as Rashed Khan Menon, remain skeptical of the US’s intentions, claiming that the superpower aims to use the island as a means to advance its broader strategic goals in the region.
Geopolitical Analysis of US Focus on Saint Martin’s
The establishment of a US base on St. Martin’s Island would significantly improve American surveillance capabilities in the region, potentially serving as a strategic counter to China’s growing influence.
The island’s location makes it an ideal point for monitoring naval routes in the Indian Ocean, a region where China has already established considerable influence, particularly in Sri Lanka. With India’s position being too strong for direct US interference, Washington might view Bangladesh as a more susceptible target for exploitation.
However, the presence of a US base on the island could provoke China to strengthen its own regional ties and bolster its military presence in response. Such a move would also likely affect India’s strategic calculations, as the country has historically preferred the Indian Ocean free of any military bases.
These potential shifts in the geopolitical landscape could lead to heightened regional tensions and a realignment of alliances, with far-reaching consequences for the stability and balance of power in the region.
Staring Down a Superpower
In the lead-up to the 2024 elections, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina found herself facing immense pressure from the United States. Despite the mounting pressure, Hasina remained steadfast in her commitment to national sovereignty, firmly refusing to lease St. Martin’s Island for the establishment of a US airbase.
Throughout this challenging period, Hasina demonstrated strong leadership, resisting external pressures and emphasizing Bangladesh’s independence and strategic interests. Her ability to withstand the demands of a global superpower like the United States highlights her remarkable political resilience and unwavering dedication to protecting Bangladesh’s national interests.
Hasina skillfully navigated the complex geopolitical landscape and successfully secured her position to serve the country’s interests. Her resolute stance in the face of adversity decodes as a demonstration of her strength as a leader and her commitment to safeguarding the nation’s independence.
