Muhammad Yunus appointed as head of Bangladesh’s interim government amid political transition
In a landmark decision, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the head of Bangladesh’s interim government, according to an announcement by President Shahabuddin’s Press Secretary Joynal Abedin. This pivotal decision was made during a crucial meeting between President Shahabuddin and coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.
The announcement comes in the wake of significant political upheaval in Bangladesh. Following widespread protests on August 5, primarily led by students advocating for an end to the quota system for government jobs, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and departed the country. These protests evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations, leading to the dissolution of the national parliament.
In a decisive move to stabilize the country, President Shahabuddin, in consultation with leaders from various political parties, the three armed forces, and representatives from civil society, dissolved the parliament to facilitate the formation of an interim administration.
Abedin revealed that the remaining members of the interim government will be finalized after further discussions with political parties. This development follows a visit by a 13-member delegation from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement to Bangabhaban on Tuesday, where they engaged with President Shahabuddin and military chiefs to discuss the nation’s political landscape and interim government structure.
Additionally, the release of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia from jail has been confirmed. This move is part of a broader effort to address the concerns of the student protesters, with many individuals detained during the protests from July 1 to August 5 now being freed.
In a statement issued on Monday, President Shahabuddin’s office declared that the decision to release Khaleda Zia and other detainees was made unanimously during a high-level meeting. This decision underscores the interim administration’s commitment to resolving the current political crisis and restoring stability in Bangladesh.
