In a dramatic turn of events, Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, the newly appointed Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, has delivered a harsh critique of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Yunus, who assumed office on August 8 following Hasina’s resignation and subsequent departure to India on August 5, has accused Hasina of systematically undermining democratic institutions and suppressing fundamental rights during her tenure.
Addressing foreign diplomats in Dhaka for the first time since his appointment, Yunus condemned Hasina’s alleged ‘dictatorship,’ which he claimed led to the erosion of the judiciary, suppression of democratic rights, and rampant corruption. He pledged to oversee ‘free, fair, and participatory’ elections once his government completes its mandate to implement essential reforms across the Election Commission, judiciary, civil administration, security forces, and media.
Yunus described the state of the country as a ‘complete mess,’ criticizing the previous regime for manipulating elections, fostering political patronage, and mismanaging the economy. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to restoring macroeconomic stability, tackling corruption, and establishing good governance.
The interim government has pledged to address law and order issues, with the armed forces providing assistance in maintaining civil control as needed. In addition to national reforms, Yunus expressed a commitment to ensuring justice for recent violence and upholding international legal obligations. His administration also plans to continue supporting Rohingya refugees and enhance Bangladesh’s contributions to UN peacekeeping operations.
As the interim government embarks on its work, Yunus has called on international partners to support Bangladesh’s transition to a more democratic future. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by students and the public during recent uprisings, emphasizing the need for a new beginning and a poverty-free, prosperous Bangladesh.
In related developments, a legal application has been filed in a Bangladeshi court to initiate a case against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and 33 others, accusing them of mass murder during a 2013 rally by Hefazat-e-Islam. This adds to a growing list of 11 cases against Hasina, including charges of murder, abduction, and crimes against humanity, stemming from violence that has claimed over 600 lives since mid-July. The Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal has launched an investigation into the former premier and nine others for genocide and crimes against humanity related to the recent student protests.
