Muhammad Yunus sworn in as chief adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government

Three others — Supradip Chakma, Bidhan Ranjan Roy, and Faruk-e-Azam — also likely to be sworn in advisers to the government, were outside the capital and could not be sworn in today.

Speaking at the swearing-in event, Yunus said: “I will uphold, support and protect the constitution and will perform my duties sincerely.”

Bangladesh’s figurehead President Mohammed Shahabuddin administers the oath of office to Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, right, as the head of Bangladesh’s interim government, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajib Dhar)

The protests, primarily led by student groups, were triggered by a violent crackdown on demonstrations advocating for reforms in the public service quota system, resulting in over 400 deaths in recent weeks. Sunday saw the protests hitting the peak, prompting Hasina to quit as the PM and flee to India while the protesters stormed her official residence.

The announcement of Yunus’s appointment was made after President Mohammed Shahabuddin held a meeting with the military leaders, and student representatives on Monday. The President emphasised the urgency of establishing an interim government to navigate the current crisis and suggested that the composition of the Advisory Council be finalised in consultation with political parties.

Yunus, who is 84 years old, is celebrated for his pioneering work in microfinance through the Grameen Bank, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006. His appointment is seen as a beacon of hope for restoring democratic governance in Bangladesh after years of authoritarian rule under Hasina. The student leaders who proposed his candidacy believe that Yunus’s vision for a society free from poverty and unemployment aligns with the aspirations of the Bangladeshi populace.

As the new chief adviser, Yunus faces the daunting task of stabilising a nation in turmoil and addressing the demands for human rights and democratic reforms. His leadership will be crucial in guiding the interim government through this transitional period, as the country seeks to heal from the recent violence and political strife.

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