NN Desk :
Nobel laureate and Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, in an interview with TIME magazine published on Thursday, pledged to ensure fair trials for all, including members of the ousted Awami League government.
Addressing allegations of systemic oppression under the previous regime, Yunus described the tenure of the Awami League as a “fascist regime” that perpetuated “oppression, random killings, disappearances, and the destruction of institutions.”
“They are as free as anyone else to participate,” Yunus said regarding the Awami League’s ability to engage in politics. “We’ll fight them on political grounds.”
Yunus revealed his intention to seek the extradition of Awami League President Sheikh Hasina from India, following the International Crimes Tribunal’s issuance of an arrest warrant for the former prime minister in October.
“Not only is she being hosted by India, but the worst part is that she’s talking, which causes a lot of problems for us,” Yunus stated. “It makes people very unhappy to hear that voice. So, this is something that we have to resolve.”
In response to calls for a roadmap to elections, Yunus reiterated the importance of comprehensive reforms before holding polls. “I don’t have a date,” he said. “First, we have to fix the rails so that the train goes in the right direction.”
Yunus also discussed the implications of Donald Trump’s recent victory in the US presidential elections. Despite their differing perspectives, he expressed optimism about maintaining strong bilateral relations.
“Trump is a businessman; we are in business,” Yunus noted. “We are not asking for free money to help us out of some crisis; we want a business partner.”
Yunus reaffirmed his commitment to reclaiming billions of dollars allegedly siphoned out of Bangladesh by the Awami League. He highlighted support from the European Union, particularly European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who offered mechanisms for combating corruption.
“Every country that we talk to has offered support to get the money back,” Yunus said. “They have done it before in other situations.”
Yunus’s remarks underscore his administration’s focus on rooting out corruption, fostering international cooperation, and establishing accountability for past misdeeds. His vision emphasises creating a fair, transparent political landscape in Bangladesh while addressing the lingering issues of the previous regime.
The interview signals Yunus’s determination to reshape Bangladesh’s governance and political framework while addressing concerns over corruption and justice.
