In a time of crisis, in a moment of disaster, there stands one person like a brave helmsman. While the entire nation is caught in uncertainty and anxiety, he calmly, firmly, and steadily shows the way forward. He is the guardian of the nation, a beacon of light. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus. It seems as if he is leading the nation toward its desired goal. Like a fearless commander, he is guiding the nation out of this crisis.
Since 5 August, more than a year has passed in Bangladesh. During this time, the country has continuously faced various crises. One of the main objectives of these crises and conspiracies has been to destroy the unity achieved through the July Revolution and to crush the spirit of that revolution. As a result, there have been multifaceted activities, rumors, and false propaganda. On one hand, there is mob terrorism and unrest; on the other hand, law enforcement agencies remain inactive. Altogether, Bangladesh seems to be going through a trial by fire. Yet, even in this situation, people remain hopeful, putting their trust in a worthy guardian. That person is Prof Muhammad Yunus. This Nobel Peace Prize laureate has taken the helm of Bangladesh since 5 August. As Chief Adviser, he has firmly navigated the stormy, turbulent times of post-revolution Bangladesh, shielding the country against hostile winds.
On the first anniversary of the July Revolution, in his speech to the nation, he announced a national election. This was the aspiration of the July Revolution. For the past 15 years, the people of this country have fought for a democratic Bangladesh. To that end, the Chief Adviser formally declared that the national parliamentary elections would be held in the first half of February. Following this announcement, new unrest and conspiracies began. Many attempts are being made to derail the election. Yet, standing against the tide, Prof Yunus is calling for national unity and playing a guardian-like role to keep the nation together—while at the same time making no compromises regarding the election. His firm stance on this matter proves his determination. This is the mark of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus. He listens to everyone with a smile, accepts logical criticism with grace, tolerates dissenting views—yet remains steadfast in his goals and ideals.
In recent times, several unfortunate incidents have occurred in Bangladesh—clearly aimed at disrupting the electoral environment. The country’s symbol of national unity, the armed forces, have also been targeted with conspiracies and schemes. Rumors and false stories were spread to mislead the public. Yet the Chief Adviser has handled all this with composure, keeping his eyes fixed on the goal. After last Friday’s untoward incident, he not only criticized the excesses but also emphasized political unity. He has been holding meetings with different political parties. In the first round, he met with BNP, Jamaat, and NCP. On Tuesday, he met with seven more political parties. These meetings focused mainly on three objectives.
First, he clearly told the political parties not to deviate from the path of national unity achieved through the July Revolution. They may have differences on various political issues, but on fundamental national questions, they must remain united.
Second, he urged the political parties to take responsibility in matters of law and order, opposing mob violence, extortion, and illegal occupation. He appealed to all for cooperation, reminding them that the country belongs to everyone. The improvement of law and order is not solely the government’s job — every political party must contribute. All democratic forces must rise against terrorism.
Third, he reaffirmed his firm stance on elections in early February, making it clear that there is no alternative. He reminded everyone that he did not assume the role of Chief Adviser on his own initiative, but rather, the entire nation collectively chose him as Chief Adviser. Therefore, as the guardian of the nation, it is expected that his call will be respected by all. The people hope that political parties will reconsider their positions in response to his appeal.
After the incident on Friday, 29 August, malicious rumors were deliberately spread about Bangladesh’s pride and protector of sovereignty — the armed forces. Certain quarters made provocative comments about the army chief. In this situation, the Chief Adviser acted with the foresight of a true national guardian. He met with the army chief, who clearly stated that the armed forces had full confidence in the government and would extend full cooperation. Thus, the conspirators were defeated, and it is believed this will put an end to rumor-mongering.
Analysts say that spreading such rumors of conflict between the interim government and the armed forces was part of a larger conspiracy to derail the election and rehabilitate fascism. But thanks to the Chief Adviser’s firmness and prudence, that attempt failed. His meeting with the army chief on Monday, 1 September, sent a clear message. Prof Yunus, with patience and wisdom, not only brought political parties onto the highway to elections but also reassured the armed forces, and most importantly, the people. Given the fragile law and order situation, the role of the armed forces is crucial. The people believe they will play an important part in ensuring free, fair, and impartial elections.
In his 13 months in office, Prof Yunus has made one thing very clear: he makes decisions with great composure, giving priority to public opinion. He seeks to understand the will of the people and bases his decisions on it. He never forces decisions upon others but instead advances through dialogue, accountability, and democratic processes. His greatest quality as Chief Adviser is his inclusiveness. He does not impose decisions unilaterally but seeks to move forward with everyone.
On the matter of elections, too, political parties have differing views, as is natural in a democracy. Yet he has not treated them as adversaries or criticised them, but rather engaged them in dialogue. Since announcing the election roadmap, Prof Yunus has met with political parties three times. This is what the role of a true guide should be. Though Jamaat and NCP have expressed differing opinions about the election date, he has not opposed or condemned them. Instead, he has fostered a culture of dialogue to build consensus. Through this process, political parties are beginning to understand national and global realities.
The international community wants to see a democratic system in Bangladesh. The people want elections. Sometimes political parties fail to grasp the reality of the situation, but Prof Yunus — by observing, understanding, and sensing everything around him — makes his decisions accordingly. He bridges the gap between the people’s expectations and the political parties’ positions through dialogue. In doing so, he shows them the way.
When rumors and speculation spread across the country, he does not respond with statements or criticise those spreading them. Instead, through action and transparency, he puts an end to those rumors. That is why today he is the guide, the true guardian.
Audite Karim, Playwright & Columnist. Email: [email protected]
