By Staff Correspondent | Dhaka
After the student-led mass uprising, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed office as Chief Adviser of the interim government with a promise to “rescue the nation.” However, following the end of his 18-month tenure—from August 8, 2024, to February 12, 2026—serious allegations have emerged, raising concerns about governance, accountability, and personal gain.
Investigations suggest that instead of prioritizing state affairs, Yunus allegedly focused on advancing his personal and institutional interests, turning his time in power into what critics describe as an unprecedented “festival of self-interest.”
Key Allegations and Controversial Decisions
Fast-Tracked University Approval:
While 22 long-pending university applications remained stalled, approval for “Grameen University” was granted within just three months. Reports claim that the institution was approved with only Tk 1.5 crore in funds, far below the legally required Tk 5 crore threshold.
Tax Exemptions for Grameen Bank:
The government granted a five-year income tax exemption to Grameen Bank, potentially depriving the state of at least Tk 1,000 crore in revenue.
Tax Evasion and Financial Irregularities:
Allegations include Tk 1,043 crore in tax evasion by Grameen Kalyan Trust, alongside extraordinary legal concessions resulting in Tk 666 crore in tax waivers.
Legal Immunity for Himself:
Yunus is accused of using his position to secure exemption from seven high-profile cases related to corruption and labor law violations.
Licenses After Years of Delay:
After being stalled for 16 years, licenses were reportedly granted to Grameen Employment Services for overseas manpower export and to operate an e-wallet service.
Violation of Oath and Constitution:
Legal experts argue that by benefiting his own institutions while holding a powerful state position, Yunus violated Article 147 of the Constitution, breaching his oath of office.
Impact on Governance and Public Life
Critics claim that while Yunus focused on consolidating personal gains, the country faced worsening law and order, rising incidents of mob justice and arson, soaring inflation, and severe power shortages—leaving public life in distress.
Senior Supreme Court lawyer Manzill Murshid described the situation as a “betrayal of public trust,” citing a clear conflict of interest. Meanwhile, legal expert Shahdeen Malik stated that such actions from a constitutional office holder amount to a direct violation of the Constitution.
A Controversial Legacy
According to the investigative findings, the 18-month interim period became an opportunity for Yunus to resolve long-standing legal challenges and secure extensive benefits for his affiliated institutions. At a time when the nation struggled with economic instability and governance challenges, his tenure is now being portrayed by critics as one marked by systemic misuse of power for personal advantage.
