Bangladesh: Muhammad Yunus Supporters Threaten PM Tariq Rahman, Warn Of Sheikh Hasina-like Fate

Dhaka: Barely three days have passed since Prime Minister Tariq Rahman assumed office following the general elections in Bangladesh, and supporters of Muhammad Yunus have begun leveling accusations against him. Yunus' supporter, Nahid Islam, who served as a key advisor in the interim government, has accused him of colluding with Sheikh Hasina's party, the Awami League, and India. Indeed, upon becoming Prime Minister, Tariq Rahman has made efforts to mend relations with India. Furthermore, Awami League offices have reopened in several locations across Bangladesh, a development that has not gone down well with Muhammad Yunus's supporters.

What did supporters of  Muhammad Yunus say?

Nahid Islam is the convener of the National Citizens Party. His party initiated protests against Sheikh Hasina in July 2024. This was exploited to overthrow Sheikh Hasina's government in Bangladesh and establish an interim government. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus pursued a strong agenda against India, and attacks on minorities also became commonplace. Mohammad Yunus openly increased his closeness with Pakistan and criticized India.

Why is Tareq Rahman compared to Sheikh Hasina?

Now, after Tariq Rahman became Prime Minister, the situation has changed, causing unrest among Yunus' supporters. Nahid Islam said that India, the Awami League, and the BNP were involved in this election. He said that if the BNP also tries to revive Awami League politics, it will also face opposition. Nahid Islam asked how Awami League offices are reopening in the country. The government should answer this question.

He said the government should immediately close all Awami League offices. If this does not happen, his party will take action. He called Sheikh Hasina a fascist and said that she would never get a foothold in Bangladesh.

Does Bangladesh want to improve relations with India?

Bangladesh's relations with India had deteriorated significantly during Mohammad Yunus's interim government. However, Bangladesh's new Sports Minister has now expressed a desire to improve relations with the BCCI. According to Bangladesh's English news website, Pratham Alo, Awami League offices have been opened in several districts since the BNP came to power. Yunus's government had banned the Awami League, which prevented the party from contesting this election.