Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, today told foreign diplomats that he has taken charge of a country left “in many ways a complete mess” following the “brutal dictatorship” of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
At a meeting held at the Hotel Intercontinental in Dhaka, Dr. Yunus outlined his government’s priorities, stating that their immediate focus would be on restoring law and order. He emphasized the continued role of the armed forces in supporting civil power until stability is achieved.
Dr. Yunus pledged to safeguard the rights and security of all religious and ethnic communities. He also paid tribute to the students and young activists who sacrificed their lives and suffered injuries during the quota reform movement and the subsequent fall of the Hasina government.
He assured that elections would be conducted as soon as possible, but only after essential reforms have been implemented.
Prioritizing Reforms
Dr. Yunus expressed the critical importance of success for the interim government, stating, “I must succeed. We have no other option.” He condemned the previous regime for dismantling the nation’s institutions, particularly the judiciary, and for suppressing democratic rights through a “brutal decade-and-a-half long crackdown.” He also criticized the economic mismanagement under Sheikh Hasina, citing blatant election rigging, the politically motivated looting of banks, and the misuse of state funds.
The Chief Adviser stressed the need for comprehensive economic reforms to restore stability and growth, with a particular focus on good governance and anti-corruption measures. He vowed to hold free, fair, and inclusive elections once critical reforms in the election commission, judiciary, civil administration, security forces, and media have been completed.
He also highlighted the government’s commitment to national reconciliation and adherence to all regional, international, and bilateral agreements to which Bangladesh is a party. Furthermore, Dr. Yunus affirmed Bangladesh’s dedication to continuing its contributions to UN peacekeeping operations.
A Call for Justice
In an emotional address, Dr. Yunus paid homage to those who made the “supreme sacrifice” in the struggle against Sheikh Hasina’s government. He recounted the tragic toll of the uprising and emphasized the need for justice for the crimes committed during the recent mass protests.
Dr. Yunus welcomed the UN Human Rights Office’s decision to send a fact-finding mission to investigate the violence. He assured that the interim government would fully support an impartial and internationally credible investigation into the massacre, followed by due judicial processes.
International Trade and Relations
Dr. Yunus also addressed concerns about international trade, urging Bangladesh’s trade and investment partners to maintain their confidence in the country. He assured that the interim government would not tolerate any disruption to the global clothing supply chain, where Bangladesh plays a crucial role.
He expressed optimism that the international community would support Bangladesh as it embarks on a new democratic path.
Rohingya Refugee Crisis
On the Rohingya issue, Dr. Yunus reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to continue hosting over a million refugees. He called for sustained international efforts to support humanitarian operations and to ensure the safe, dignified, and rights-based repatriation of the Rohingya to Myanmar.
