[🇧🇩] Everything about the interim government and its actions

[Saif]

Chief Adviser considering resignation amid political tensions: Nahid

National Citizens' Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam met with Bangladesh’s Interim Government Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Thursday evening following reports that Yunus may step down from his position. The meeting took place at the state guest house, Jamuna, where the Chief A

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Chief Adviser considering resignation amid political tensions: Nahid
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
May 23, 2025 00:25
Updated :
May 23, 2025 00:25

National Citizens' Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam met with Bangladesh’s Interim Government Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Thursday evening following reports that Yunus may step down from his position.

The meeting took place at the state guest house, Jamuna, where the Chief Adviser currently resides.

Speaking to BBC Bangla, Nahid Islam confirmed the meeting, stating, “We’ve been hearing rumors since this morning about Sir’s possible resignation. I met him to discuss the situation.”

According to Nahid, Dr. Yunus expressed concerns over his ability to continue working under the current political climate. “He said, ‘You brought me in after a mass uprising for change and reform, but I feel like I’m being held hostage. How can I function like this?’” Nahid quoted the Chief Adviser as saying.

Nahid further urged Dr. Yunus not to resign and to remain firm in his leadership. “I told him that the hopes of the mass uprising, national security, and the country’s future depend on his leadership. He should stay strong and continue building unity among all parties.”

However, the NCP leader admitted that Dr. Yunus is seriously considering stepping down. “Yes, he said if he cannot work effectively, then what’s the point of staying?” Nahid told the BBC.

Dr. Yunus reportedly told Nahid that unless political parties show trust and provide assurance, continuing in his role may not be feasible.

Earlier today, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) demanded the resignation or dismissal of two advisers and the National Security Adviser. The call came during ongoing protests demanding the swearing-in of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain as Mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation.

In a subsequent press conference, the BNP called for the removal of advisers Mahfuz Alam and Asif Mahmud, as well as National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman.

In a counter-response, a senior leader of the NCP warned that unless reform recommendations are implemented, three other advisers—Law Adviser Prof. Asif Nazrul, Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed, and Planning Adviser Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud—may be forced to resign, labeling them as “BNP spokespersons.”

Meanwhile, Information Adviser Mahfuz Alam issued a Facebook post on Thursday apologizing for any divisive remarks or language used in the past.

As tensions mount within the interim administration, questions remain about the future leadership and direction of the transitional government in a politically polarized Bangladesh.​

 

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Criticism of government tarnishes country’s image abroad: finance adviser

Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed believes that excessive criticism of the government does not leave a good impression internationally and can harm the country's image, reports bdnews24.com. Speaking as the chief guest at the national round of the Bangladesh Economics Olympiad 2025 at Dhaka Residen

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Criticism of government tarnishes country’s image abroad: finance adviser
Published :
May 23, 2025 19:03
Updated :
May 23, 2025 19:36

Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed believes that excessive criticism of the government does not leave a good impression internationally and can harm the country's image, reports bdnews24.com.

Speaking as the chief guest at the national round of the Bangladesh Economics Olympiad 2025 at Dhaka Residential Model College on Friday, he said: “Many people criticise us. Some even call us incompetent. Criticism is fine, but such remarks don’t create a good impression abroad. They damage the country's image.”

The advisor also highlighted the "considerable pressure" he faces, not just from the Ministry of Finance but from various quarters ahead of the upcoming budget.

“There are all kinds of suggestions coming in regarding the budget. Some want tax exemptions in certain sectors, others are pushing to increase taxes in some areas. But the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could not impose any conditions this time. We’ve reached a solution.”

He emphasised spreading knowledge in society through platforms like the Math Olympiad, saying that knowledge is a lasting process and should be used for the betterment of society.

“True learning actually begins after earning a degree. You can’t learn everything in class. Most of life’s lessons come from life itself. And you can’t go far by tripping others up.”​

 

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Salehuddin urges all to work together to overcome challenges of economy

'We are in the midst of all sorts of challenges,' says the finance adviser

www.thedailystar.net

Salehuddin urges all to work together to overcome challenges of economy

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed today urged all to work together for overcoming all challenges of the country's economy.

"We are in the midst of all sorts of challenges," he said while speaking as the chief guest at the national finals of the Bangladesh Economics Olympiad 2025, held at Dhaka Residential Model College in the city.

The event was presided over by Chairman of the organising committee of Bangladesh Economics Olympiad 2025 and former caretaker government adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman.

Also present at the event were Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) Fahmida Khatun, Managing Director of City Bank Masrur Arefin, Dhaka Bank MD Sheikh Mohammad Maruf, and Pubali Bank MD Mohammad Ali, among others.

Hossain Zillur Rahman said economics is an applied science.

"That's why we are trying to make economics popular from the school and college levels. This year, there were 20,000 participants. Bangladesh Economics Olympiad is increasingly becoming a focal point of attention each year," he added.

Fahmida Khatun said Bangladesh's growth rate has increased by 1% per decade.

"But not everyone has benefited from this growth. As a result, inequality has widened. This growth has not been adequate in creating employment. Youth unemployment has increased. For the past two and a half years, people have been suffering from high inflation. When the economy is driven in a one-sided political direction, society regresses," she added.

While presenting the keynote, Masrur Arefin said, during the last nine months, corruption and irregularities in the banks have come to a halt.

"Money laundering has stooped. That is a big achievement. But political unrest is on the rise again," he added.

In this seventh edition of the event, five participants were awarded at the national level from among 20,000 competitors across the country.

They were presented with smartphones and laptops as gifts. These five will represent Bangladesh at the International Economics Olympiad in Azerbaijan.​

 

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Eight Islamist and opposition parties to meet CA for urgent political talks

A coalition of eight political parties and Islamist organisations, including Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, and Gono Odhikar Parishad, is scheduled to meet with the Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, on Sunday evening. According to a press re

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Eight Islamist and opposition parties to meet CA for urgent political talks

FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
May 24, 2025 23:04
Updated :
May 24, 2025 23:04

A coalition of eight political parties and Islamist organisations, including Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, and Gono Odhikar Parishad, is scheduled to meet with the Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, on Sunday evening.

According to a press release issued by Islami Andolan Bangladesh on Saturday, the meeting will take place at the Chief Adviser’s official residence, Jamuna, at 5:45 PM. Islami Andolan’s Ameer and Charmonai Pir, Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, will represent his party at the high-level discussion.

The statement confirmed that leaders of other participating parties will include representatives from Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis, Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, Khilafat Majlis, Gono Odhikar Parishad, Nezam-e-Islami Party, and Hefazat-e-Islam, according to local media.

The meeting will focus on the role of the interim government in ensuring institutional reform, holding credible elections, and initiating legal action against individuals associated with autocratic governance. The parties are expected to provide recommendations on how to achieve these objectives.

This upcoming meeting follows a delegation from the BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party) meeting with Professor Yunus on Saturday evening. Further meetings with Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizens' Party (NCP) are also scheduled to take place later tonight.

The surge in political engagement comes amid ongoing speculation about Dr Yunus’s possible resignation, adding urgency to consultations with key political stakeholders.​

 

[Saif]

'If discharge of duties made impossible, government will take decisions with people'

The interim government has warned that if foreign conspiracies or instigations by defeated forces render it impossible to fulfil its constitutional duties, it will present all relevant reasons to the public before taking necessary decisions. In a statement issued by the Press Wing of the Chief Adv

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'If discharge of duties made impossible, government will take decisions with people'

FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
May 24, 2025 18:18
Updated :
May 24, 2025 18:18

The interim government has warned that if foreign conspiracies or instigations by defeated forces render it impossible to fulfil its constitutional duties, it will present all relevant reasons to the public before taking necessary decisions.

In a statement issued by the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser following an unscheduled meeting of the Advisory Council on Saturday afternoon, the government expressed its deep concern over actions that are impeding its ability to operate effectively.

The meeting was held at the Planning Commission in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, following a session of the National Economic Council.

It was chaired by the Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, according to local media.

The council extensively discussed the three principal responsibilities assigned to the interim government — the conduct of elections, implementation of reforms, and upholding the rule of law. The meeting also addressed the growing challenges posed by various unreasonable demands, intentional misinformation, and activities that fall beyond lawful jurisdiction, which are obstructing the normal functioning of the administration and creating confusion and mistrust among the public.

The Advisory Council emphasised the need for broader national unity to ensure stability in the country, progress with the reform agenda, uphold the judicial process, conduct fair elections, and permanently prevent the return of autocratic rule in Bangladesh.

The interim government affirmed its commitment to listening to the views of political parties on the matter and to clarifying its position transparently.

Despite numerous challenges, the government stated that it has been discharging its duties in line with the expectations of the people following the July uprising, and reiterated that it would not be deterred by group interests or undue influence.​

 

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We’re in war-like situation: Yunus

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus yesterday said the country had been in a state of war since imposing the ban on the activities of the Awami League.

www.thedailystar.net

We’re in war-like situation: Yunus
At talks with parties, organisations, CA cites plots at home, abroad since AL ban

"There have been relentless efforts to destabilise the situation. We must protect ourselves from this."— Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus yesterday said the country had been in a state of war since imposing the ban on the activities of the Awami League.

"A war-like situation emerged both inside and outside the country, preventing us from moving forward, causing everything to collapse, and pushing us back into subservience," Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam quoted Prof Yunus as saying last night.

The CA said this at meetings with political parties yesterday, according to Shafiqul.

Prof Yunus met 20 leaders of different political parties and organisations in two separate sessions at state guest house Jamuna.

The talks follow reports that Prof Yunus on Thursday expressed frustrations over some recent developments and expressed his desire to step down. BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and National Citizen Party leaders met separately with Yunus on Saturday.

The CA observed that the 2024 mass uprising gave the country a great opportunity to turn around, Shafiqul said.

"Since the Awami League's activities were banned [on May 12], there have been relentless efforts to destabilise the situation. We must protect ourselves from this," Yunus said.

He urged everyone to be confident that he would not do anything that may harm the country.

"I felt confident as we all sat together. If I fail to hold a fair election, I will feel guilty."

Shafiqul said party leaders reaffirmed their support to the interim government, its reform initiatives, approach to the trials of July killings, and efforts to hold a national election.

Photo: PID

The CA once again stated that he would hold the election between this December and June next year. The election will be held before June 30 and "everyone expressed their satisfaction" on the matter, Shafiqul said.

The political parties that met the CA demanded a clear roadmap to reforms, the election and trial for the July atrocities.

The leaders also said the interim government should hold trials of Awami League leaders' role in mass killings during the July uprising.

Mujahidul Islam Selim, former president of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, said the reform process should engage people and the interim government might not have enough time to implement the reform proposals.

"The election can take place after making the necessary reforms and the interim government can leave fundamental issues to the people. Unnecessary delays can further worsen the already unstable situation."

There are conspiracies at home and abroad to destroy the national unity seen during the July uprising.

Nagarik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna said "The chief adviser has said that due to Indian hegemony, the country is facing a major crisis. Therefore, he believes that the entire nation needs to be united.

"We will remain united leaving behind differences of opinion. The nation doesn't want Yunus to resign," Manna said after the meeting.

Saiful Haque, secretary of the Biplobi Workers Party, said, "This government's main mandate is to make reforms, hold the trials for the July killings and the election. The government should give clear-cut roadmaps for these tasks."

He pointed out that there was a lack of coordination among the advisers.

The decision to establish a humanitarian corridor [to provide aid to the people in Rakhine State] and hand over the operations of the Chattogram port to a foreign party should not be made by the interim government without discussions and consultations with political parties, he said.

"Prof Yunus did not make any straight comment regarding the humanitarian corridor and Chattogram port," he said.

Mojibur Rahman Monju, chairman of Amar Bangladesh Party, also emphasised the need for roadmap for reforms, trials and elections.

There is no alternative to unity among the July uprising forces, Monju added.

Rashtro Songskar Andolon Chief Coordinator Hasnat Quaiyum said the trial, reforms and elections should not be pitted against each other.

The election should be held without further delay, strictly following the announced roadmap, Hasnat said.

Ganosamhati Andolon Chief Coordinator Zonayed Saki said the controversy surrounding the advisers is undesirable.

If the two advisers of the Students Against Discrimination have political plans for the future, then a question of their resignation arises.

A specific roadmap for the election will help the political parties prepare for that.

Islami Andolon Bangladesh Ameer Rezaul Karim said, "If necessary reforms are not implemented, the nation's hope for a fair election will be jeopardised."

Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Ameer Mamunul Haque urged the government to involve all political parties before making decisions on sensitive international matters.

Hefazat-e-Islam Secretary General Sajidur Rahman said that they informed CA that no law can be enacted contradicting the Quran and Sunnah.​

 

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Government committed to ensuring religious freedom, Chief Advisor Yunus says

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has reaffirmed the interim government’s commitment to safeguarding religious freedom in Bangladesh. During a meeting with Stephen Schneck, chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) at the State Guest House Jamuna on Monday, he said: &

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Government committed to ensuring religious freedom, Chief Advisor Yunus says
bdnews24.com
Published :
May 26, 2025 23:55
Updated :
May 26, 2025 23:55

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has reaffirmed the interim government’s commitment to safeguarding religious freedom in Bangladesh.

During a meeting with Stephen Schneck, chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) at the State Guest House Jamuna on Monday, he said: “The government is committed to upholding religious harmony in this country of 171 million people. We are determined to safeguard the religious freedom of every citizen.”

The Chief Adviser’s Office later said in a press release that the head of the government had invited journalists from around the world to visit Bangladesh and assess the situation firsthand following allegations of violence against minorities.

The statement quoted him as saying: “Any journalist can visit Bangladesh at any time. Many have already visited the country after the mass uprising.”

Yunus expressed concern over alleged “disinformation campaigns” under the guise of undermining minority rights and aimed at discrediting the July Uprising.

He highlighted massive efforts from external sources, including media from the South Asia region, to portray the uprising as an “Islamist extremist movement”.

The chief advisor noted that the government is striving hard to build religious harmony in the country, adding that violence targeting the minorities in the South Asia region and the genocide in Palestine have exacerbated tensions domestically.

Alongside religious freedom, the meeting focused on the government’s reform plans, constitutional amendments and the Rohingya crisis.

Schneck enquired about the activities of the reform commissions and the proposed constitutional amendments.

In response, Yunus said any constitutional changes would uphold religious freedom and minority rights and the discussion in this respect is underway with the political parties.

“Minorities will continue to enjoy the same rights as the majority Muslim population," he assured.

The chief advisor sought support from the USCIRF to highlight the plight of the Rohingya people and their prolonged persecution in Myanmar's Rakhine State.

He said the United Nations is scheduled to hold a special session on the Rohingya issue in September, following his request.

"We need to resolve the crisis. The sooner, the better, he said.

“A young generation, frustrated with anger, is growing up in the Rohingya camps. We must offer them a glimmer of hope.”​

 

[Saif]

People of Bangladesh enjoying full religious freedom: Mahfuj

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md Mahfuj Alam on Monday said that the people of Bangladesh are enjoying the highest level of religious freedom. He made the remark during a meeting with a delegation from the US Commission on International Religious Freedom at the Industries Ministry. Highlig

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People of Bangladesh enjoying full religious freedom: Mahfuj
BSS
Published :
May 26, 2025 21:11
Updated :
May 26, 2025 21:11

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md Mahfuj Alam on Monday said that the people of Bangladesh are enjoying the highest level of religious freedom.

He made the remark during a meeting with a delegation from the US Commission on International Religious Freedom at the Industries Ministry.

Highlighting the historical context of long-standing Muslim-Hindu coexistence in the region, Mahfuj said, “Currently, no citizen in Bangladesh is being discriminated on the basis of religion. People of all faiths are enjoying equal rights.”

The adviser said the government is extending full support to ensure the smooth celebration of religious festivals across different communities.

Stating that there has been no incident of minority oppression in recent months, Mahfuj said the government has taken a firm stance to prevent such occurrences. “A vested quarter is always spreading propaganda that minority oppression is happening in Bangladesh. Everyone must raise their voice against such propaganda,” he added.

Mahfuj Alam also noted that some minority communities consider themselves allies of the Awami League (AL) and continue to work in favour of the party.

Chairman of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom Stephen Schneck, US Embassy in Dhaka Charg, d’Affaires Megan Boldin, Political Economic Counselor Eric Gillan, and Senior Policy Analyst of the Commission Sima Hasan were present at the event.​