Dhaka: In a significant development, Bangladesh President Muhammad Shahabuddin has appointed Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus as the head of the interim government. The move comes after weeks of unrest and protests that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Key Points:
- Appointment and Swearing-In:
- Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman announced that the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, will officially take charge on Thursday.
- The swearing-in ceremony for government members is scheduled for 8:00 PM on the same day.
- The advisory council of the interim government will consist of 15 members, with Yunus at the helm.
- Why Yunus?
- President Shahabuddin’s decision to appoint Yunus followed the resignation of Sheikh Hasina, who left the country.
- Yunus, an 84-year-old economist and microfinance pioneer, gained prominence for lifting millions out of poverty in Bangladesh.
- Student leaders, who played a crucial role in the protests, advocated for Yunus to lead the interim government.
- The protests, initially focused on government job quotas, escalated into rebellion and violence, resulting in over 100 fatalities.
- Yunus’ Vision:
- Speaking to the media at Paris airport before his return to Bangladesh, Yunus emphasized restoring normalcy in the country.
- He pledged to work tirelessly from day one to ensure justice for all victims of the unrest.
- His appointment as chief adviser was swiftly approved in a meeting with military leaders and student representatives.
- Legal Developments:
- The Bangladesh court acquitted Yunus of a politically motivated labor charge that had led to a six-month imprisonment sentence.
- Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, imprisoned since 2018 on multiple convictions, was also released on the same day.
- Rebuilding with Love and Peace:
- Khaleda Zia, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, expressed hope for a peaceful future.
- She emphasized that the country would be rebuilt through love and reconciliation, not vengeance.
- Khalida’s party will actively participate in the interim government’s efforts to stabilize the nation.
As Muhammad Yunus prepares to lead Bangladesh during this critical phase, the nation awaits the unfolding of a new chapter in its history. His leadership will be pivotal in steering the country toward stability and healing after the recent turmoil.
Note: The term “interim government” refers to the transitional administration that oversees the country until regular elections can be held.
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