Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel Prize-winning microfinance pioneer from Bangladesh, is set to lead a new interim government following intense protests that forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee. The announcement came on Wednesday after Yunus, known for his efforts in lifting millions out of poverty, was asked by student leaders to step in as the interim chief.
The decision emerged from a meeting involving President Mohammed Shahabuddin, top military leaders, and student representatives. Shahabuddin’s office confirmed the formation of an interim government with Yunus as its chief advisor. “The president has urged the public to support this transition and emphasized the need for a swift formation of the interim government to address the crisis,” the statement read.
Yunus, who is currently in Europe, has expressed his willingness to lead if it benefits the country and its people. He also called for free elections to be held.
The move follows Hasina’s resignation after widespread protests in Dhaka. What began as a dispute over job quotas evolved into a larger anti-Hasina movement. The unrest led to violent crackdowns by security forces, resulting in hundreds of deaths. Hasina, who had been in power since 2009, was forced to escape to India.
The military intervened over the weekend, supporting student demands and dissolving parliament. Other key changes include the dismissal of the police chief and the release of former prime minister Khaleda Zia from house arrest. Additionally, several military officers closely aligned with Hasina have been reassigned or dismissed.
While Dhaka is experiencing a more peaceful atmosphere with businesses reopening and international flights resuming, government offices remain largely closed. Celebrations erupted in the streets following Hasina’s departure, with some protesters attacking symbols of her regime and releasing inmates from prison.
Concerns about the safety of minority groups have been raised by rights organizations and international diplomats. Both India and China have urged calm as Bangladesh navigates this period of transition.
