Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus is not only a role model for Bangladesh, but also for the entire world. In a time of great national crisis, he took the helm of the country. In a recent interview, he said: “I did not take this responsibility; the people entrusted me with it.” And that is the truth. After the 2024 mass uprising, the people of Bangladesh, transcending all political divisions, collectively entrusted Dr Yunus as Chief Adviser. There was no controversy surrounding him. He took on this responsibility as the embodiment of spontaneous public aspiration. In the history of Bangladesh, no other head of government has ever assumed office with such massive popular support. After the July Revolution, Dr Muhammad Yunus became not only the Chief Adviser but also the true captain of the nation—a genuine guardian.
Due to fifteen long years of authoritarian rule, Bangladesh had lost its way. After the fall of fascism, the people were disoriented. Law and order had collapsed, and the economy was in shambles due to years of plunder by the autocratic Awami League government. Diplomatically, the country had become dependent and weak. At such a critical juncture, Dr Yunus stepped forward. Just as a drowning ship requires a courageous sailor to rescue it, there was no alternative but Dr Yunus to rescue a disoriented, directionless Bangladesh. When he assumed responsibility, the whole world seemed relieved. Governments and heads of state from 92 countries congratulated him. Never before in Bangladesh’s history had a head of government received such overwhelming international support upon taking office.
As a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Dr Yunus already carried immense global respect and recognition. He used that honour and reputation to rebuild Bangladesh. His wisdom, vision, and ideas have inspired the world—especially the youth. Over the past year, he has led Bangladesh along a path of light with that same knowledge and foresight. His greatest strength is his sense of responsibility, his tireless hard work, and his smile while serving. He expects nothing in return. Under his leadership, Bangladesh’s economy has begun to recover. Discipline has been restored in the banking sector. He has taken concrete steps to curb corruption and plundering. Within a year, he has been able to bring the country back on track. This is his achievement. Most importantly, in over a year in power, he has shown no political ambition. Time and again, he has proven that his only aim is to restore people’s rights and democracy—not to cling to politics. For this reason, people hold him in special respect and affection.
He has not only revived the economy but also initiated a process of reform to free state institutions from decay. He has created a clear framework for restructuring governance and has formed several reform commissions. Dr Yunus is a farsighted leader who understands that without reform, people’s rights cannot be secured, and fascism could rise again. Through state reforms, he has laid the foundation for a new Bangladesh—a task future elected governments will carry forward. Internationally, he has elevated Bangladesh’s image. The United Nations has given Bangladesh a special place of honour, and its High Commissioner for Human Rights is establishing an office in the country. The international community, especially the United States, has extended wholehearted support to Bangladesh largely because of Dr Yunus.
Dr Yunus has no desire to hold on to power. From the beginning, he made it clear that his role was temporary: “I will oversee reforms and justice, then conduct elections.” He has kept his word. On the first anniversary of the mass uprising, he announced in a national address that elections would be held in February. By doing so, he has proven that no matter how adverse the circumstances, he stands by his commitments.
Although there is less than six months left until the election—a daunting task—people remain hopeful because Dr Yunus is at the helm. He has pledged repeatedly that he has no political ambition and will hand over power to an elected democratic government. The Election Commission has already been instructed to prepare. Law and order is being restored. He is working tirelessly to ensure that the upcoming election is free, fair, and impartial. The people of Bangladesh, as well as the world, believe he will succeed.
True, some forces are attempting to disrupt the election. Yet one fact remains: Dr. Yunus is acceptable to all and is the most popular figure in Bangladesh. No matter how much the political parties quarrel among themselves—over the July Charter or other issues—they ultimately listen to Dr. Yunus. For all parties, regardless of differences, he remains the true guardian. When he says elections will be held in February, the political parties will come together under the banner of unity. The Nobel Peace Prize–winning economist will fulfill his mission of establishing peace in Bangladesh by ensuring a free, fair, and impartial election—an election that people will remember for generations, one that future generations will take pride in. It will mark the dawn of a new Bangladesh free of fascism, built on accountability, transparency, and tolerance.
Writer: Auditi Karim, Playwright and Columnist
Email: [email protected]
