Following days of violent demonstrations, Bangladesh’s political landscape has drastically shifted. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, facing a sea of protesters at her official residence, Ganabhaban, announced her resignation and fled to India for safety. In the aftermath, the nation’s army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, addressed the nation, declaring the formation of an interim government and urging for peace. He emphasized the need to end the widespread violence and economic turmoil that had gripped the country. The general confirmed consultations with opposition parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jatiya Party, and Jamaat-e-Islami, but not Hasina’s Awami League. The focus now shifts to the composition and leadership of this interim government.
According to media reports, General Waker-Uz-Zaman has held discussions with leaders of various political parties, student and teacher representatives, aiming to establish a new governing body. President Mohammed Sahabuddin has also been involved in these consultations, convening a meeting with military chiefs, political leaders, civil society representatives, and student movement leaders. This meeting resulted in the announcement of BNP chief Begum Khaleda Zia’s immediate release, along with the release of all prisoners detained during the anti-quota protests.
The identity of the interim government’s leader remains unclear. However, key organizers of the anti-quota protests have proposed Nobel laureate Dr. Mohammad Yunus as the chief advisor. Professor Yunus, known for his work with the Grameen Bank and microcredit, has reportedly agreed to the role, recognizing the critical situation facing Bangladesh. He has been a vocal critic of Hasina’s administration, and his appointment could signify a major shift in the country’s political direction.
Other individuals proposed for the interim government include Dr. Salimullah Khan, a prominent public intellectual, and Dr. Asif Nazrul, a renowned author, novelist, and law professor. General Iqbal Karim Bhuiyan (retired), former Chief of Army Staff, is also among the 27 names suggested. Additional names include Justice Md Abdul Wahhab Miah (retired), former Chief Justice of Bangladesh; Major General Syed Iftekhar Uddin (retired), former Inspector General of Prisons; Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, economist and former ambassador; Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, journalist; Brigadier General M Sakhawat Hossain (retired), former Election Commissioner; Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman, economist; and Justice M A Matin (retired), retired judge.
The task ahead for the interim government is immense, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of violent protests, political uncertainty, and economic instability. Irene Khan, a UN special rapporteur, highlighted the challenging situation, emphasizing the need for a swift and effective response. The protesters’ message is clear: they will not tolerate any form of dictatorship or mismanagement. The international community is also closely monitoring the situation, with the US calling for a democratic and lawful transition of power. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed his concern, urging for a peaceful and orderly transition and a full investigation into acts of violence.
As Bangladesh enters this new and uncertain chapter, the interim government faces the monumental task of restoring peace, stability, and a path towards a democratic future. The eyes of the world are watching as this nation navigates through this turbulent period.
