Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government Dr. Muhammad Yunus has called for national unity to combat what he described as a wave of misinformation aimed at destabilising the country’s progress. Speaking at a meeting with political leaders at the Foreign Services Academy on Wednesday, Dr. Yunus characterised these disinformation campaigns as a deliberate attempt by harmful forces to undermine the nation’s achievements.
“These campaigns pose a serious threat to the progress of a ‘new Bangladesh’ and the nation’s very existence,” he warned. In his opening remarks, Dr. Yunus emphasised the importance of solidarity: “We won our freedom together, driving out those who oppressed us. Now we must stand united and show the world our collective strength.”
He stressed that false narratives, fuelled by those opposing the people’s uprising on 5 August, are being used to undermine the country’s progress. “The weight of oppression was lifted by a people’s revolution, yet there are those attempting to undo our hard-won freedom,” he added.
Dr. Yunus urged political leaders to act together, saying: “Let us not falter in our progress. By working collectively, we can form a united front to counter these falsehoods.” He highlighted the peaceful celebration of Durga Puja as an example of national harmony, commending the unity that ensured the festival proceeded smoothly.
“When Durga Puja approached, there were concerns about unrest. Yet the government’s call for unity ensured that the celebrations were peaceful, with everyone participating,” he said.
Dr. Yunus expressed concern over international narratives misrepresenting Bangladesh’s situation. “Some forces are crafting a story that Bangladesh is in turmoil and needs external intervention,” he said, noting that this false narrative has reached influential global circles.
He invited the international community to visit Bangladesh and witness the reality. “Despite our repeated invitations, they persist in spreading imaginary accounts, undermining our progress,” he remarked.
Dr. Yunus underscored that the issue transcends politics: “This is not about ideology but about safeguarding our national identity. We achieved an independent Bangladesh through revolution, and we must protect it from those seeking to revert to the past.”
In closing, he called on all political parties, citizens, and international allies to unite against these disinformation campaigns. “Our collective strength will protect the new Bangladesh and ensure its continued progress,” he concluded.