Dhaka, Bangladesh — The bustling capital of Bangladesh has transformed into an unexpected canvas of political expression. Dhaka’s streets, once drab with unremarkable concrete, now burst with vivid murals celebrating the student-led movement that ousted long-serving Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed in August. Caricatures depict Hasina as a devilish figure, while slogans champion youth as the nation’s new saviors and demand the removal of political corruption.
It’s a striking visual symbol of profound political and social upheaval gripping this South Asian nation of over 170 million people. The movement’s unlikely new steward is 84-year-old Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, a figure synonymous with innovation in poverty reduction. Now, as Bangladesh’s interim leader, Yunus faces the daunting task of uniting a fractured nation while laying the groundwork for a brighter democratic future.
A Nation at a Crossroads
protests that led to Hasina’s ouster began with peaceful student demonstrations against employment quotas favoring regime loyalists. But escalating repression—including violent crackdowns on protestors—ignited a nationwide uprising. Over 1,500 people were killed during clashes between demonstrators and security forces, and Hasina fled to India under mounting pressure, leaving a political vacuum in her wake.
Yunus, hailed globally for pioneering microcredit, was unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight. Initially reluctant, he agreed to lead an interim government to restore order and guide the country toward elections.
“Bangladesh has been through unimaginable suffering,” Yunus said in an interview. “previous government destroyed institutions, eroded freedoms, and ruled through fear. Now, we have a chance to rebuild everything from scratch.”
Challenges of Transition
the transition has been far from smooth. Hasina’s flight triggered a purge of her Awami League at all levels of government. Thousands of officials, including police officers, deserted their posts, fearing reprisals. Institutions such as the judiciary and police are being restructured to restore public trust.
A six-pronged reform process is underway, focusing on critical areas like election integrity, judicial independence, and anti-corruption efforts. However, the lack of political inclusivity in the reforms has drawn criticism.
“I’ve formed commissions without involving political parties, which raises questions about the legitimacy of the process,” said A K M Wahiduzzaman, a leader from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Yunus, however, remains cautious. “We must fix rails before the train can move,” he said, declining to provide a timeline for elections.
Geopolitical Pressures
interim government’s ambiguous legality has complicated international relations. U.S. support, demonstrated by Yunus’s meeting with President Joe Biden in September, has helped secure the cooperation of institutions like the IMF and the World Bank. However, Donald Trump’s imminent return to the White House has raised concerns about potential sanctions.
Trump has already condemned sporadic attacks on minorities following Hasina’s ouster, calling Bangladesh a “state of chaos.” Meanwhile, Hasina’s allies in India and among influential diaspora groups are lobbying to portray the new government as Islamist and destabilizing.
Yunus expressed confidence in overcoming the challenges, emphasizing Bangladesh’s commitment to fostering global business partnerships. “We are not asking for aid; we want to build strong economic relationships,” he said.
Rebuilding Trust and Institutions
Rebuilding a nation requires more than policy reforms. Wounds of political and social division run deep, with former Awami League members alleging widespread persecution. Some have gone into hiding, while others face charges that they claim are politically motivated.
The press has also been caught in the crossfire. At least 25 journalists have been charged with crimes related to protests, prompting international outcry.
“Media professionals are bearing the brunt of this transition,” said Antoine Bernard of Reporters Without Borders. “New government must safeguard press freedoms to ensure accountability.”
Road Ahead
interim administration is drafting a new constitution, but questions remain over its structure and legitimacy. Should Bangladesh adopt a presidential or parliamentary system? Will proportional representation empower fringe groups? And should a referendum ratify the document?
Yunus acknowledges complexity but remains optimistic. “This is our opportunity to build a nation that reflects the hopes and dreams of every Bangladeshi,” he said.
For now, Bangladesh stands at a precipice, grappling with its turbulent past while envisioning a more inclusive and democratic future. Wher Yunus and the interim government can navigate these challenges will determine whether colorful murals adorning Dhaka’s walls represent a fleeting moment the or dawn of a new era.
