By Spy Uganda Correspondent
Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus has been appointed to lead an interim government in Bangladesh following the resignation and flight of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after 15 years in power. Hasina resigned and fled the country amidst widespread student-led protests and unrest demanding her resignation.
Yunus was selected in a meeting with military leaders, student protest leaders, business figures, and civil society members.
The protests escalated from student-led demonstrations against the job quota system to a widespread movement against the government, resulting in violent clashes, numerous casualties, and a harsh reaction by security forces, leading to Hasina’s resignation and escape.
Yunus will act as caretaker premier until new elections are held, with the new government members to be decided after discussions with political parties and other stakeholders.
President Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament, released opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia from house arrest, and met with military commanders, student leaders, opposition politicians, and civil society representatives, to establish an interim government until new elections.
Yunus is a political rival of Hasina. His appointment was supported by student protest leaders who rejected a military-led government.
Yunus faced criticism from Hasina’s government, including accusations of financial misconduct, embezzlement, and labor law violations, which he maintains his innocence against. He was dismissed from Grameen Bank in 2011. Supporters claiming he was targeted due to political ambitions and strained relations with Hasina.
The Army announced plans for an interim government, and removed high-ranking officers close to Hasina. The Banglasesh police union apologized for firing on students during the protests.
The military promises to investigate killings and punish those responsible as the country grapples with instability and violence, with reports of at least 109 people dead and 596 prisoners escaping amid violent unrest.
Critics have accused Yunus and the Grameen Bank of impoverishing borrowers with high interest rates, while others defend his work and global reputation.
Following Hasina’s departure, the Hindu minority in Bangladesh fears potential attacks, and appeals for protection from opposition politicians and student leaders.
Foreign leaders called for upholding democracy and universal rights in Bangladesh after Yunus’s appointment.
The EU ambassador and UN human rights chief expressed concern over reports of anti-minority violence in Bangladesh and stressed the importance of an inclusive transition of power that respects international obligations.
