Bangladesh is undergoing a significant political transition as Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been selected to lead the country's interim government following the resignation and departure of longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amidst violent unrest.
Yunus, renowned for founding the microfinance giant Grameen Bank, will serve in a caretaker position until new elections are conducted. The decision to appoint Yunus was made after a meeting that included student protest leaders, military chiefs, civil society members, and business leaders.
Hasina's resignation came after weeks of protests against her rule, particularly focused on a controversial quota system for government job allocations. Her departure has left Bangladesh in a state of political crisis, prompting the army to temporarily assume control.
Yunus, currently in Paris as an adviser to the Olympics organizers, has been a vocal critic of Hasina and is seen as a key figure in guiding the country through this transitional period. The 83-year-old economist and banker was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his pioneering work in microcredit to empower impoverished individuals, especially women.
Yunus' tenure as the head of Grameen Bank faced challenges under Hasina's administration, with allegations of corruption and legal battles. Despite these controversies, Yunus remains a respected figure both in Bangladesh and internationally for his dedication to poverty alleviation and social development.
As Bangladesh navigates this critical juncture in its political landscape, Yunus' appointment signifies a new chapter in the nation's governance and sets the stage for upcoming elections to determine its future leadership.
