From Nobel Hero to Political Target: Sheikh Hasina Publicly Shreds Yunus’s Image

Bangladesh: Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina has made sharp allegations against Mohammad Yunus, the head of the interim government running on behalf of her party, Awami League. She has said that Yunus's government has failed in governance and is giving free rein to religious fundamentalism and extremism in the country.

What did she say?

Hasina has written in an article that the Yunus administration has shown an inability to show expertise, and meanwhile extremist groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir have become active in the country. She also claimed that the number of attacks against religious minorities, women, and tribal communities had increased sharply—incidents she described as reminiscent of the Holi Artisan Cafe attack in 2016.

What questions were raised on law and order and democracy?

Hasina said the Yunus government took over without public opinion, which was a “threat” to true democracy. He has also alleged that sanctions have been imposed on his party, millions of people have been denied voting rights, and an “unconstitutional charter” has been imposed that is said to be aimed at legitimizing dictatorship.

There was a trend of economic achievements—but now challenges have increased

Amidst her criticism, Hasina recalled the achievements of the previous government—such as rapid growth in GDP, inclusion of women in the workforce, poverty alleviation, etc. But he said circumstances have changed now, and those successes are not being carried forward by the new administration.

What could happen next?

Issues such as political stability, minority rights, violence against women, and the credibility of the democratic process have now become more prominent in Bangladesh. Hasina's allegations have raised questions about the legitimacy of the interim government. Its impact will be seen in the coming election cycle and the image of Bangladesh abroad.

What is the international community response?

Political analysts believe that Hasina's statement will not only create a stir in the domestic politics of Bangladesh but will also affect the image of the Yunus government on the international stage. Human rights organizations and neighboring countries had earlier also expressed concerns about freedom of expression and safety of minorities in the country. Now Hasina's new allegations are making these issues more prominent.