Yunus Outlines Priorities for Interim Government Amid Political Turmoil in Bangladesh
- Bangladesh's leader Muhammad Yunus reassures ongoing support for Rohingya refugees and important garment trade.
- Yunus pledges to maintain the country's vital garment industry in his first policy speech as interim prime minister.
- Bangladesh continues to prioritize humanitarian efforts alongside economic stability under new leadership.
In his inaugural address to diplomats and UN representatives, Muhammad Yunus, the interim leader of Bangladesh, emphasized his administration's commitment to supporting the Rohingya refugee community and safeguarding the nation's vital garment industry. Yunus stated, “Our government will continue to support the million-plus Rohingya people sheltered in Bangladesh,” highlighting the need for international cooperation for humanitarian efforts and the safe repatriation of refugees to Myanmar. The Rohingya crisis has intensified, with recent reports from Doctors Without Borders indicating an influx of refugees with war-related injuries due to escalating conflict in Myanmar's Rakhine State. Yunus's remarks come in the wake of significant unrest that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India amid widespread protests against her government. Yunus condemned the violence that resulted in over 450 deaths during the protests, calling for an impartial investigation into the events. Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, also pledged to uphold the integrity of Bangladesh's garment industry, which constitutes a significant portion of the country's economy. He asserted, “We won’t tolerate any attempt to disrupt the global clothing supply chain,” as the industry faces challenges from the recent political upheaval. Looking ahead, Yunus committed to conducting free and fair elections once necessary reforms are implemented across various sectors, including the judiciary and media. He expressed a desire for national reconciliation, stating, “The Sheikh Hasina dictatorship destroyed every institution of the country,” and vowed to support UN investigations into the recent violence.