In a significant political shift, Bangladesh’s Presidency announced early Wednesday that Nobel Prize-winning microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus has been selected to lead an interim government following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The decision was made during a crucial meeting involving President Mohammed Shahabuddin, military leaders, and representatives from the Students Against Discrimination group, as confirmed by the president’s press office.
Muhammad Yunus had previously expressed his readiness to assume the role of interim leader.
In light of the ongoing protests demanding governmental changes, protest leaders have given Yunus a 24-hour window to accept his nomination.
This ultimatum follows a prior demand for the dissolution of Parliament by 3 pm, with threats of escalating actions if unmet.
Yunus, renowned globally for his groundbreaking microfinance initiatives, reiterated his commitment on Tuesday.
He affirmed his willingness to lead if it benefits the nation and its people, advocating for “free elections.”
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned on Monday amid intensifying protests and subsequently fled the country by helicopter as the military shifted its stance.
General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the military chief, announced the establishment of an interim government aimed at quelling the violence that has resulted in over 432 deaths since early July.
On Tuesday, President Shahabuddin dissolved the national parliament following the protesters’ demands.
The unrest has escalated, with violent mobs targeting government buildings, the parliament, and media outlets.
Reports have also surfaced of attacks on Hindu homes and temples, raising alarms among human rights groups and international observers.
Following Hasina’s departure, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia was released from house arrest and has since emerged as a pivotal figure in the ongoing crisis.
The release of political prisoners and widespread protests have caused extensive property damage and significant disruptions across Dhaka.
The international response has been swift, with the UK denying Hasina’s asylum request and the US revoking her visa.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s key regional allies, India and China, have urged for calm and stability.
