In state governance, certain positions and institutions must remain above controversy. This is a fundamental principle of administrative etiquette. If every sensitive and crucial institution or position is continuously subjected to disputes, the ultimate consequence is a weakened state. It is time to reflect on whether such a tendency is currently at play in Bangladesh.
For the past seven months, Nobel Laureate economist Dr Muhammad Yunus has been leading the interim government. Like any administration, it has its strengths and weaknesses. However, dismantling a 15-year-long oppressive regime and rebuilding a new Bangladesh from the ruins is an extremely complex and challenging task. Despite these difficulties, the credibility of this government—both nationally and internationally—has remained largely intact due to Dr Yunus's leadership. He is not only respected in Bangladesh but also globally. It is fortunate that such a distinguished and internationally esteemed figure has taken on this responsibility, ensuring continued public trust in the government despite ongoing tensions. Therefore, we must have faith in him and allow him to carry out his duties.
The primary task ahead is the democratic transition through a free, fair, and impartial election. It must be acknowledged that the nature of Bangladesh’s next election is not solely a domestic concern; the international community is closely watching. The role of the international community, particularly the United States and the United Nations, was instrumental in bringing about the fall of the Awami League regime. Consequently, Bangladesh cannot unilaterally set the timing and method of its next national election. It must be conducted at an acceptable time and in a credible manner. Dr Yunus is currently working on this process and has already announced that the election will be held by December. There will be no postponement.
However, we have recently observed certain overzealous groups attempting to discredit and create controversy around various institutions and their leaders, including Dr Yunus himself. Criticising his statements and even taking to the streets in protest is unwarranted. Recently, Dr Comfort Ero led a delegation from the International Crisis Group (ICG) to meet with the Chief Adviser for discussions on the upcoming election, its participatory nature, and the path towards democratic transition. Dr Yunus clarified two key points: first, that the election will be held in December, and second, that the government has no plans to ban the Awami League. Those leaders within the party accused of genocide and crimes against humanity will, however, face legal proceedings in Bangladeshi courts.
It is important to note that this is not the first time Dr Yunus has made such statements. He has consistently outlined three clear positions regarding the Awami League. Firstly, those within the party responsible for genocide, corruption, and other crimes must be held accountable. Secondly, it is up to the Awami League whether they participate in elections. Thirdly, banning or allowing the party is not within the jurisdiction of the interim government. Despite this, attempts are being made to distort his remarks, potentially leading to instability.
At a press conference last Friday, the National Citizen Party (NCP) criticised the Chief Adviser’s statement, condemning the slow pace of trials against the Awami League and declaring the party irrelevant in today’s politics. While political parties have the right to express their opinions, questioning or criticising the Chief Adviser at such a critical time is inappropriate. Likewise, we have observed inflammatory and baseless remarks being made against the military and its leadership, which is a dangerous development.
The military is a symbol of national sovereignty and public confidence. Any attempts to undermine its integrity or question its role can weaken the state and endanger our sovereignty. Those active in politics or who successfully led the 5 August mass uprising must now focus on nation-building. It must be remembered that Bangladesh has been subjected to various conspiracies over the past seven months. Addressing these challenges requires responsibility, awareness, and unity. Now is not the time for blame games or creating unnecessary tensions.
Recently, student leaders and political figures have made sensitive remarks following the Chief Adviser’s statement. On 20 March, Hasnat Abdullah, a prominent leader of the NCP and coordinator for the southern region, posted on Facebook, claiming that senior military officials had summoned him and others on 11 March to discuss bringing the Awami League into the election through seat-sharing negotiations. According to him, pressure was exerted to ensure the Awami League's participation. The timing of this revelation, coming right after Dr Yunus’s meeting with the ICG, raises questions about its intent and appropriateness.
Hasnat Abdullah has since stated that politics should be left to politicians and that the military should not interfere. However, this prompts the question—why did all political parties look towards the military between the afternoon and evening of 5 August? Why did student leaders and the people rely on the armed forces to prevent a full-scale civil war? The interim government was formed through negotiations mediated by the Chief of Army Staff.
Similarly, Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud recently claimed in an interview that the Army Chief initially opposed the appointment of Dr Yunus as Chief Adviser. In times of political crisis, different perspectives emerge in discussions, which is natural. However, internal deliberations and decision-making processes are confidential. The final decision is what matters. Why, then, are these deliberations being publicised seven months later? Making the Army Chief controversial at this stage could destabilise the country. Such risks must be avoided.
If we dwell on past debates and attempt to vilify individuals, it will only create instability. This could endanger democracy and obstruct the path to democratic transition. Those criticising the Chief Adviser and the military must reflect on how, after 5 August, the military and Dr Yunus worked tirelessly to save Bangladesh from disaster. Their efforts prevented inevitable chaos, and they continue to engage with the international community to ensure stability.
Bangladesh’s most pressing need is a smooth democratic transition. Dr Yunus and the Army Chief are best positioned to navigate this process. Everyone must understand the far-reaching consequences of their words. Spreading unnecessary controversy and excitement will only harm the revolution. Unjustified, irrelevant, and inappropriate debates will obstruct Bangladesh’s journey towards democracy. We must realise that excessive emotional reactions can ultimately be self-destructive.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
