Bangladesh Interim Government Rocked as Student Leaders Accuse Advisers of Seeking Safe Political Exit

International News:  Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser for environment and climate change, firmly denied allegations on Wednesday. She told reporters, “I am not seeking any exit at all.” Her response came after accusations from NCP leader Nahid Islam. Islam claimed advisers were in talks with political parties to protect themselves. This suggestion sparked rumors of fractures inside Yunus’s interim cabinet. Hasan, however, insisted she would live her life in Bangladesh. She urged NCP leaders to clarify their statements publicly.

NCP Questions Advisers’ Loyalty

Nahid Islam accused some advisers of betraying trust. He said they prioritized safety over public service. According to him, it was a mistake to trust them. He suggested some were negotiating with political groups. His comments raised suspicion of disloyalty within the interim setup.

Controversial Statement Sparks Tension

The crisis deepened after another NCP leader, Sarjis Alam, issued a harsh warning. He declared, “The only exit that remains open for advisers is death.” This statement shocked political circles. It fueled debate about the unity of the interim government. Many questioned if students and advisers could still work together.

Roots of the Student Movement

The NCP emerged earlier this year with Yunus’s backing. It grew out of the Students Against Discrimination movement. That student-led revolt triggered the “July Uprising.” On 5 August, Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government fell. Hasina fled the capital after resigning under pressure.

Yunus Takes Charge in August

Muhammad Yunus returned from Paris days after the unrest. He took charge as chief adviser of the interim government. He described student leaders as his “appointers.” Three students joined the cabinet as advisers. Later, Nahid Islam resigned to lead the new NCP. The other two stayed on in Yunus’s team.

Awami League Banned by Interim Government

In May, Yunus’s government banned Awami League activities. The move came under NCP pressure. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and top leaders faced trials for alleged crimes. Hundreds of Awami League members were arrested. Thousands went underground as the party weakened.

Hasina Faces Tribunal Action

Meanwhile, a special tribunal issued orders against Sheikh Hasina. It called for her arrest along with 29 others. They face allegations of crimes against humanity. Cases of enforced disappearances during her rule are under investigation. This latest move intensifies the political storm in Bangladesh.