Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, faces the daunting task of rebuilding the nation after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s long-standing regime. However, he must navigate strong resistance from her supporters while addressing economic and political challenges.
Since taking office, Yunus has struggled with rising inflation and delays in implementing crucial reforms in the judiciary, political system, and economy. The ongoing instability has further complicated the situation, with concerns growing over a potential resurgence of the Awami League.
Adding to the uncertainty, the interim government has yet to announce an election date, fueling public frustration and doubts about the country’s political future.
Resistance from Former Regime Loyalists
Experts warn that many who benefited from Hasina’s 15-year rule are working behind the scenes to obstruct Yunus’s reform agenda. A senior government official, speaking anonymously, claimed that elements within the civil service are actively trying to sabotage the new administration.
“For years, the system was built to keep the Awami League in power,” the official said. “Many officials wielded unchecked authority, leading to widespread corruption. A thorough clean-up would leave few untouched.”
These corrupt elements are now attempting to shield themselves from accountability, buying time and seeking ways to escape justice.
Meanwhile, revelations about past abuses continue to emerge. A United Nations report released on February 12 alleges that Hasina’s administration may have committed “crimes against humanity” during the mass protests that led to her ousting in August. The report claims that security forces killed up to 1,400 people in a brutal crackdown.
“The violent response was a deliberate strategy by the former government to suppress mass opposition,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk. He cited credible evidence linking Hasina’s party to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
Hasina, who fled to India, now faces extradition efforts led by Yunus, who has called for justice and accountability.
Economic Struggles and Public Frustration
While Yunus initially enjoyed public goodwill, the persistence of economic hardships is eroding confidence in his leadership. Inflation remains high, and rising food prices continue to frustrate citizens.
“Food costs haven’t come down, and we’re tired of complaining,” said Jotsna Banu, a homemaker in Dhaka. “I had high hopes for this government, but change isn’t happening fast enough.”
However, many still blame profiteering businessmen who thrived under Hasina’s corrupt administration rather than the new government itself.
Reform and Electoral Uncertainty
Yunus has prioritized reforms in the judiciary, police, finance, and public administration to combat corruption and revitalize the economy. However, his initial timeline for elections, set for late 2025 or early 2026, now seems unlikely due to persistent obstacles.
Student groups, instrumental in Hasina’s ousting, insist that reforms must precede any elections. Some citizens fear that without proper restructuring, political instability could continue.
“We fought for change, yet this government is struggling to maintain order,” said Ali Arafat, a private-sector employee. “Protests still disrupt Dhaka, and safety remains a concern.”
The interim government has urged patience as it works to stabilize the economy and security situation, including efforts to rebuild a fractured police force. Officials anticipate inflation, currently at 9.94%, will drop to 7% in the coming months.
Ongoing Backlash Against Hasina
Public anger toward Hasina remains intense. Earlier this month, thousands of protesters set fire to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence, the home of Bangladesh’s founding leader and Hasina’s father. The unrest was triggered by reports that Hasina planned to address the nation via social media from India. Protesters viewed the site as a “symbol of oppression.”
Following the UN report, calls for Hasina’s extradition and a ban on the Awami League have gained momentum within Bangladesh.
Despite these challenges, Awami League leaders remain hopeful of a political comeback. Party veteran Mohammad Arafat dismissed the UN report as “biased and misleading,” emphasizing the party’s deep-rooted connection with the people.
“The Awami League has endured multiple crises over the past seven decades and survived,” Arafat told reporters. “Our strength lies in our grassroots support.”
The Road Ahead
Bangladesh stands at a crossroads. Experts emphasize that a clear electoral roadmap is essential for a stable democratic transition. While Yunus remains committed to restoring order and implementing reforms, he faces mounting obstacles from political adversaries, economic hardships, and remnants of the previous regime.
The coming months will determine whether Bangladesh can move toward lasting change or remain trapped in political turmoil.
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