Facing a devastated economy and political tension, Yunus outlines priorities and addresses concerns over safety and reforms.
Bangladesh's Interim Leader Muhammad Yunus Faces Challenges After Hasina's Exile
Bangladesh's Interim Leader Muhammad Yunus Faces Challenges After Hasina's Exile
New interim leader discusses the daunting task of restoring order and preparing for upcoming elections.
In a recent interview, Bangladesh's newly appointed interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, expressed feeling "dazzled" by the responsibilities that came with stepping into power following the departure of long-time Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year. "I had no idea I'd be leading the government," Yunus, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, shared with the BBC. He stated that although he had never before managed a government, he quickly focused on restoring law and order while addressing the nation's struggling economy.
Sheikh Hasina, now in exile in India, has been accused of crimes against humanity, raising questions about whether her party, the Awami League, will participate in the upcoming elections. Yunus emphasized that it was ultimately their choice, commenting, "I cannot decide for them; the election commission will determine participation." He voiced his commitment to restoring peace, declaring, "Peace and order is the most important thing, and the economy. It's a shattered economy, a devastated economy."
Hasina, who ruled with a strong grip since 2009, faced a wave of protests that forced her from office last August, leading to Yunus's appointment as interim leader. The violence that ensued has left the country reeling, with many still feeling unsafe. Yunus acknowledged the chaos of prior years, stating, "We are coming from complete disorder,” referring to the violent protests that marked last summer. However, he noted that improvements have yet to materialize, although he maintains that progress is relative, asserting that the situation is better than a year ago.
Amidst calls for accountability against Hasina's regime, Yunus addressed concerns from former Awami League members regarding their safety. He urged those who feel threatened to utilize legal avenues rather than resorting to media complaints. As concerns mount regarding the impacts of US foreign aid cuts on Bangladesh, Yunus remarked, “It’s their decision. ... It has been helpful because they are doing things that we wanted to get done, like fighting corruption.”
As Yunus prepares for elections, he anticipates holding them between December 2025 and March 2026, contingent upon successful reforms conducive to a fair electoral process. The upcoming months will be crucial for Yunus and Bangladesh as they navigate these momentous changes in leadership and direction.
Sheikh Hasina, now in exile in India, has been accused of crimes against humanity, raising questions about whether her party, the Awami League, will participate in the upcoming elections. Yunus emphasized that it was ultimately their choice, commenting, "I cannot decide for them; the election commission will determine participation." He voiced his commitment to restoring peace, declaring, "Peace and order is the most important thing, and the economy. It's a shattered economy, a devastated economy."
Hasina, who ruled with a strong grip since 2009, faced a wave of protests that forced her from office last August, leading to Yunus's appointment as interim leader. The violence that ensued has left the country reeling, with many still feeling unsafe. Yunus acknowledged the chaos of prior years, stating, "We are coming from complete disorder,” referring to the violent protests that marked last summer. However, he noted that improvements have yet to materialize, although he maintains that progress is relative, asserting that the situation is better than a year ago.
Amidst calls for accountability against Hasina's regime, Yunus addressed concerns from former Awami League members regarding their safety. He urged those who feel threatened to utilize legal avenues rather than resorting to media complaints. As concerns mount regarding the impacts of US foreign aid cuts on Bangladesh, Yunus remarked, “It’s their decision. ... It has been helpful because they are doing things that we wanted to get done, like fighting corruption.”
As Yunus prepares for elections, he anticipates holding them between December 2025 and March 2026, contingent upon successful reforms conducive to a fair electoral process. The upcoming months will be crucial for Yunus and Bangladesh as they navigate these momentous changes in leadership and direction.
