Former US Ambassador Peter D Haas Visits Dhaka, Set to Stay Until November 19

Haas arrived in the capital at around 3:00 am on Friday, November 13, and checked into the Le Méridien Dhaka hotel.

Haas served as the US ambassador to Bangladesh for nearly three years before voluntarily retiring from the US State Department in September 2024. He subsequently joined US-based private energy company Excelerate Energy, where he currently serves as a strategic adviser. He is also involved in overseeing the company's activities related to Bangladesh.

The purpose of his latest visit to Dhaka remains unclear. No official information has emerged indicating whether the trip is related to business or other engagements.

During his tenure as ambassador, Haas repeatedly emphasised the importance of holding free, fair and inclusive elections in Bangladesh. He held a series of meetings with the Election Commission, civil society representatives, the then-ruling Awami League and opposition political parties on the issue.

His diplomatic activities drew repeated objections from the then Awami League government, which accused him of interfering in Bangladesh's internal political affairs.

However, Haas was viewed favourably by several opposition groups, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami.

Following Bangladesh's 12th parliamentary election, held on January 7, 2024, Haas said the election was not free and fair.