Muhammad Yunus, the head of Bangladesh’s interim government, has accused former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of destroying the country’s institutions in her efforts to stay in power. Yunus, who took office on August 8, pledged to hold free and fair elections once his government completes necessary reforms.
In his first briefing to diplomats in Dhaka, Yunus claimed that Hasina’s administration had broken the judiciary and suppressed democratic rights through a harsh 15-year crackdown. He described the situation he inherited as “a complete mess,” blaming Hasina for widespread corruption and mismanagement.
“Sheikh Hasina’s dictatorship destroyed every institution of the country. The judiciary was broken. Democratic rights were suppressed,” Yunus said, adding that elections had been rigged and young people had grown up without the chance to vote.
“Our top priority is to bring the law and order situation under control,” Yunus stated, noting that the police force has resumed operations and the armed forces will assist as needed. He also assured that the government will work to protect all religious and ethnic groups, amid concerns about rising violence against Hindu communities following Hasina’s ouster.
Yunus promised that once the interim government completes its reforms, it will hold a “free, fair, and participatory” election. He also stressed the importance of justice and accountability for the violence that occurred during the recent protests. The interim government, according to Yunus, is committed to upholding Bangladesh’s international obligations, including international humanitarian and human rights laws.
Yunus called on the international community to support Bangladesh during this transition, particularly in dealing with the Rohingya refugee crisis. He pledged that the interim government would continue to support the Rohingya people and work towards their safe repatriation to Myanmar.
“Bangladesh stands at the crossroads of a new beginning,” Yunus said, expressing hope that the international community would support the country as it moves towards a more democratic future.