In a significant development amidst ongoing protests in Bangladesh, key organizers of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have demanded the formation of an interim government with Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus as the chief advisor. The movement has declared that any government not meeting this demand will be unacceptable. Nahid Islam, a leading coordinator of the movement, stressed that neither a military government, nor one backed by the military, nor a government led by fascists would be acceptable.
Dr. Yunus has reportedly given his consent to this proposition, considering the current situation in Bangladesh. He has openly criticized the legacy of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who resigned on Monday and left for the UK after facing intense pressure from the ongoing student protests. In an interview with The Print, Dr. Yunus accused Hasina of destroying the legacy of her father, ‘Bangabandhu’ Mujibur Rehman.
Dr. Yunus described Bangladesh as being “liberated” with Hasina’s departure. He stated that the previous government under her leadership had acted like an “occupation force,” suppressing dissent and controlling all aspects of life. He believes that the people of Bangladesh are now experiencing a sense of liberation and hope for a fresh start.
Highlighting the plight of students who were killed during clashes with police, Dr. Yunus condemned the use of force by the previous government. He questioned the morality of a government that orders its own soldiers and police to kill its citizens instead of protecting their lives.
Dr. Yunus further explained the deep-seated anger and frustration among the people of Bangladesh towards the Hasina-led government. He pointed out that the government’s suppression of basic rights, including the right to vote, had fueled public resentment. This resentment manifested itself in the student protests demanding quota reforms. He criticized the government’s response, which he described as attacking the students instead of listening to their concerns.
He also attributed the damage to a statue of Mujibur Rehman to the actions of the previous government, stating that the act reflected the anger and frustration towards Hasina.
Dr. Yunus, known for his pioneering work in microfinance, has garnered widespread support in Bangladesh. He is currently out on bail after being convicted in January for violating Bangladesh’s labor laws. He has expressed his commitment to continue working for the people of Bangladesh upon his return from Paris.
The student movement has declared that they will continue their protests until their demand for an interim government with Dr. Yunus as the chief advisor is met. They are determined to build a new Bangladesh and are willing to safeguard their movement by remaining on the streets.
