New Delhi: The United States’ increasing financial and political engagement in Bangladesh has raised fresh concerns over possible interference in the country’s internal affairs, particularly ahead of the January 7, 2024, elections. Recent data released by the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reveals a significant rise in USAID funding for democracy and governance programs in Bangladesh. This has fueled speculation about Washington’s role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

USAID Funding to Bangladesh Sees Sharp Increase

Official US government records show a consistent rise in financial aid to Bangladesh, with a special focus on democracy, human rights, and governance. In 2024, 10% of total USAID funding to Bangladesh was allocated to these areas, making it the second-largest recipient of USAID assistance in the region—only behind Afghanistan.

Top USAID Recipients in 2024

1. Afghanistan – $596.7 million
2. Bangladesh – $371.7 million
3. Pakistan – $207.8 million
4. Myanmar – $223.5 million
5. India – $151.8 million
6. Nepal – $123.8 million

This sharp increase in aid has raised questions about US motives, with critics pointing to the timing of these funds and their potential impact on Bangladesh’s elections.

Political Influence Through USAID and CEPPS?

One of the most debated aspects of US engagement in Bangladesh is the role of the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS). This US-funded initiative works alongside USAID to implement governance and democracy programs in various countries.

Under the Democratic Elections and Political Processes (DEPP) initiative, CEPPS collaborates with international organizations to promote what it calls "inclusive and accountable governance." However, critics argue that such initiatives often serve as tools for political intervention, especially in developing nations like Bangladesh.

US Engagement With Opposition Groups Before Elections

Speculation about US interference in Bangladesh’s elections grew stronger after reports surfaced about pre-election meetings between US-backed organizations and opposition parties.

Just days before the January 7 elections, a US delegation landed in Dhaka to conduct an electoral violence risk assessment. The delegation included representatives from the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the International Republican Institute (IRI), both of which are known for their involvement in political engagement and election monitoring worldwide.

On January 2, 2024, members of the delegation reportedly met with the Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party)—a political group formed in 2020 by former Jamaat-e-Islami leaders.

Why Is the AB Party Meeting Significant?

The AB Party is led by:

• AFM Solaiman Chowdhury (Former Bureaucrat)
• Mujibur Rahman Manju (Ex-President of Islami Chhatra Shibir, Jamaat-e-Islami’s student wing)

The meeting has fueled concerns that US-backed initiatives may be supporting opposition movements against the ruling government of Sheikh Hasina.

Dhaka University: A Hub for US-Backed Protests?

Adding to the controversy, Dhaka University, which hosts several US-funded civic education programs, has been a center for protests against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Observers argue that such educational programs could be used to indirectly influence political activism and opposition movements.

Is the US Attempting to Shape Bangladesh’s Political Future?

With USAID dramatically increasing funding for democracy and governance, alongside direct engagement with opposition parties, concerns are mounting that the US is not just aiding Bangladesh, but also attempting to influence its internal politics.

While Washington maintains that its assistance is aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, the timing and focus of its funding raise serious questions. Is the US merely promoting democratic values, or is it strategically shaping Bangladesh’s political future to align with its own interests?

As Bangladesh moves forward, the role of US-backed organizations and financial aid in its domestic political landscape is likely to remain under close scrutiny.