Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh's interim government, is reportedly considering stepping down amid growing political unrest.
The news emerged following a meeting between Yunus and Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizens Party (NCP), at the state guest house Jamuna on Thursday evening.
Nahid Islam confirmed the speculation, stating: “We have been hearing about the possibility of Sir’s resignation since this morning. I went to speak with him about the issue.”
According to Nahid, Professor Yunus expressed doubts about his ability to continue leading the interim government under the current volatile political circumstances. “Sir said, ‘You brought me in after a mass uprising with hopes of reform and change, but now I’m being held hostage by the political situation. If I cannot work in this environment, what’s the point of staying on?’” said Nahid.
Yunus reportedly emphasized that unless political parties can reach a common ground, it would be difficult for him to continue his role effectively.
In response, Nahid urged Yunus not to resign and to remain firm for the sake of national unity and security.
“I told him that the goals of the uprising, national security, and the country’s future demand that he stays strong and brings all parties together,” he added.
While no final decision has been made, Yunus reportedly told Nahid that he is seriously “thinking about resigning,” especially if political parties continue to demand his departure or fail to restore trust in his leadership.
Notably, the opposition BNP on the same day called for the resignation or dismissal of two advisers—Mahfuz Alam and Asif Mahmud—as well as National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman. The demand was linked to the ongoing protest surrounding the swearing-in of BNP leader Ishraq Hossain as Mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation.
In retaliation, a senior NCP leader threatened to push for the resignation of three government advisers—Law Adviser Prof. Asif Nazrul, Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed, and Planning Adviser Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud—labeling them as “BNP spokespersons” unless reform proposals are implemented.
Meanwhile, Information Adviser Mahfuz Alam issued a Facebook apology earlier in the day for any divisive remarks or language used in the past.
Source: BBC Bangla
