Mohammed Yunus Vows to Ensure Safety and Urges Youth to Rebuild Bangladesh

Mohammed Yunus, the head of the interim government and Nobel Prize-winning economist, has issued a major statement on the security of his countrymen following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. He said the government would ensure the safety of the people. Yunus also urged the youth to help in rebuilding Bangladesh.

Yunus, 84, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his exploits in small loans, was appointed head of the interim government after President Mohammad Shahabuddin dissolved parliament on Tuesday. He is taking the oath today.

Earlier, Sheikh Hasina had resigned as prime minister amid widespread protests and left the country. Yunus, who went to Paris for the Olympic Games, has returned home via Dubai. Emirates flight (EK-582) carrying Yunus landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 2:10 pm local time.

Chief of Army Staff General Waqar-uz-Zaman, senior officials, student leaders and members of civil society welcomed him at the airport. At a press conference at the airport, Yunus expressed gratitude to the youths who made the movement against Hasina a success.

He said, “We have got freedom for the second time. We have to protect this freedom.”

Yunus, who is ready to be sworn in as chief adviser, a position similar to that of prime minister, said his first task was law and order, controlling chaotic activities and attacks on minority communities must be restored.

He described the incidents as "part of a conspiracy." He urged people from all walks of life to listen to him and agreed to take command of the interim government on the demand of students and youth.

He said, “We have to form a government that assures security to its citizens.” He asked citizens to save the country from the chaos that erupted during the protests.

“If you trust me, you make sure there is no attack on anyone anywhere in the country,” Yunus said. “This is our first responsibility.” He said, “If I can’t do that and you don’t listen to me, then I have no usefulness here.” Yunus said the country is now in the hands of the youth. “The country is now in your hands. Now you have to rebuild it according to your aspirations. You have to use your creativity to build the country. You have won freedom for the country.” He also paid tribute to Abu Saeed, who was one of the first to be shot dead by police during the anti-discrimination student movement.