Students Propose Interim Government in Bangladesh Amid Political Unrest

Anti-Discrimination Student Movement leaders proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and violent protests. President Shahabuddin approved the interim government, with the backing of military and political leaders. Tarique Rahman returns to support from BNP.

Leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, aiming to address Bangladesh’s ongoing political crisis, according to the Dhaka Tribune. This development was announced early Tuesday through a video message by key student leaders Nahid Islam, Asif Mahmud, and Abu Bakar Mazumdar.

On Monday night, Nahid Islam indicated that an outline for the interim government would be drawn up within 24 hours, following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and subsequent departure from Bangladesh. Her exit came after a violent crackdown on demonstrations initially sparked by job quota protests, which then escalated into demands for her resignation.

As the violence continued across Bangladesh, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement leaders opted to declare their position overnight. President Mohammed Shahabuddin approved the formation of an interim government during a meeting at Bangabhaban, attended by military chiefs, political leaders, and civil society members.

According to a press release from Bangabhaban's Assistant Press Secretary, Muhammad Shiplu Zaman, the Army has been tasked with restoring law and order, which deteriorated significantly after Sheikh Hasina left the country. Meanwhile, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced that Tarique Rahman, the party's acting chairman, would soon return to Bangladesh.

Alamgir addressed the media on Monday night, revealing that steps had been taken to bring back Rahman, who has been in exile due to alleged false charges. He also confirmed the imminent release of Begum Khaleda Zia and other political prisoners. Alamgir urged all political factions, students, and the public to work together and avoid violence, especially against religious minorities.