DHAKA, Aug 5 (Alliance News): Nobel Peace Prize winner and interim leader Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday urged Bangladeshis to protect the hard-earned reforms achieved since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic regime, marking the first anniversary of the August 5, 2024, student-led uprising.
Yunus, now serving as chief adviser to the caretaker government until elections in early 2026, called the anniversary “an unforgettable chapter in the history of Bangladesh,” describing it as a turning point that “liberated our beloved nation from the grip of long-standing fascist rule.”
While celebrations were mostly subdued in the capital Dhaka, with citizens enjoying the public holiday, the day carried significant political weight. Yunus is scheduled to deliver a “proclamation” later in the evening outside parliament, joined by leaders of major political parties.
The revolt that ended Hasina’s 15-year rule has been followed by pledges from the interim government to reform democratic institutions and strengthen civil rights.
In his statement, Yunus warned, “The sacrifice of thousands has gifted us this rare opportunity for national reform, and we must protect it at any cost.”
He also cautioned against elements of the old regime, saying “The fallen autocrats and their self-serving allies remain active, conspiring to derail our progress.”
Under Hasina, Bangladesh witnessed widespread human rights violations, including the mass detention and extrajudicial killings of political opponents.
The caretaker government has since launched what Yunus described as “extensive reform efforts,” though a consensus on electoral and institutional reforms remains elusive.
“Dialogue continues with political parties and stakeholders on necessary reforms, including the political and electoral systems,” Yunus said, acknowledging the challenges ahead amid the political jockeying ahead of the 2026 polls.
