US Cuts Funding in Bangladesh Amid Allegations of ‘Deep State’ involvement
Trump Administration Cancels Funding for Bangladesh Political Landscape Project
In a move to save US taxpayers’ money, the Donald Trump administration’s cost-cutting team, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has cancelled several overseas projects, including one in Bangladesh. The department, led by billionaire Elon Musk, announced the cancellation of $29 million funding intended for "strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh."
Controversy Surrounding the Cancelled Project
The decision to cancel the funding for the project in Bangladesh has raised eyebrows and sparked controversy. This comes just days after President Trump denied allegations of US involvement in the regime change in Bangladesh last year, following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after a nationwide protest led by students.
About the Strengthening Political Landscape Project in Bangladesh
The project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development, aimed to build political party capacity, strengthen relationships between parties and constituents, and reduce political violence in Bangladesh. According to Democracy International (DI), the program supported political activists and citizens in developing leadership skills, advocating for inclusive policies, and promoting peaceful engagement to mitigate conflict.
Trump’s Comments on US Involvement in Bangladesh
During a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Trump dismissed any American involvement in the Bangladesh political crisis. He stated that the issue had been handled by India for a long time and emphasized that the US had no role in the regime change in Bangladesh. Speculation suggests that the new Trump administration may refrain from involvement in Bangladesh due to concerns about radical Islamist elements targeting religious minorities.
India-Bangladesh Relations
Tensions between India and Bangladesh escalated after former Prime Minister Hasina fled Dhaka amidst anti-government protests. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has faced criticism for failing to address attacks on minorities by radical Islamists.
Bangladesh-US Ties
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, discussed a potential collaboration with Tesla CEO Elon Musk to launch Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh. The initiative aims to enhance internet connectivity in the country and drive national development. Musk expressed interest in the collaboration and indicated his willingness to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch of Starlink services.
Other Funding Cuts by DOGE
In addition to the Bangladesh project, DOGE has cancelled funding for various other programs, including voter turnout initiatives in India and fiscal federalism projects in Nepal. These cuts are part of the administration’s efforts to reduce government spending and streamline operations.
About Nepal’s "Fiscal Federalism" Programme
Nepal’s fiscal federalism program aligns with the country’s federal structure established in 2017. The program ensures that all government expenses receive parliamentary approval, in line with constitutional provisions governing financial procedures at the federal, provincial, and local levels.
About DOGE
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is spearheading efforts to cut government costs significantly under the Trump administration. Led by Elon Musk, the department is conducting a thorough review of federal spending to align with the administration’s goal of restructuring and reducing the size of the US government.