International: Bangladesh Faces Political Turmoil Under Yunus
Interim Government Under Pressure
Ten months after Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, grapples with mounting political unrest. Protests by civil servants, teachers, and political parties have disrupted major cities, particularly Dhaka, over delayed elections and governance reforms.
Election Timeline Dispute
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) demands elections by December 2025, while Yunus has set a deadline of June 2026, citing the need for electoral reforms. This discord has fueled tensions, with the army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, publicly urging polls by year-end.
Awami League Ban Controversy
The Supreme Court’s decision to lift the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami has been welcomed as a step toward inclusive elections, but the Awami League remains banned. Critics argue this disenfranchises millions of voters, risking further instability.
Charges Against Hasina
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, now in exile in India, faces charges of crimes against humanity for her role in the 2024 protest crackdowns, which killed nearly 1,400 people. The International Crimes Tribunal’s ongoing trial has intensified political divisions.
Key Challenges Facing Yunus
The interim government faces multiple challenges:
- Restoring law and order amid protests and strikes
- Implementing electoral reforms for fair polls
- Balancing military and civilian demands
- Addressing economic concerns, including inflation and gas supply issues
Military’s Growing Influence
General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s call for early elections signals rising military frustration with Yunus’s leadership. Posts on X suggest rumors of a potential coup, though these remain unverified and speculative.
Economic Fallout
Industrialists warn of an impending economic collapse, citing inconsistent gas supplies and declining foreign investment. The ongoing protests have further strained Bangladesh’s fragile economy, amplifying public discontent.
International Scrutiny
The U.S. and EU have called for democratic reforms and de-escalation, while India, a key neighbor, faces pressure to address Hasina’s exile. Yunus’s government insists on managing the crisis internally.
Social Media Dynamics
X posts reflect polarized sentiments, with hashtags like #YunusResign trending among critics, while supporters defend his reform efforts. Misinformation continues to complicate the political narrative.
Path to Stability
Yunus has initiated talks with political parties, but consensus remains elusive. A clear election roadmap and inclusive reforms are critical to restoring stability and public trust in Bangladesh’s democratic process.