Dhaka: Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus took the oath of office as the head of Bangladesh’s interim government on Thursday, marking a significant shift after 15 years of Sheikh Hasina’s administration.
At the swearing-in ceremony, Yunus, who is 84, pledged, “I will uphold, support and protect the constitution and will perform my duties sincerely.” The ceremony took place at the official residence of President Mohammed Shahabuddin, Bangabhaban.
Yunus, renowned for his pioneering work in microcredit through the Grameen Bank, returned to Dhaka from Paris, where he had been receiving medical treatment. His appointment signals a new chapter in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
In response to Yunus’s new role, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations, expressing hope for a swift return to stability in Bangladesh. Modi emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of Hindus and other minority communities. “My best wishes to Professor Muhammad Yunus on the assumption of his new responsibilities. We hope for an early return to normalcy, ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities. India remains committed to working with Bangladesh to fulfill the shared aspirations of both our peoples for peace, security, and development,” Modi wrote on X.
The transition comes after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was compelled to resign and flee to India on Monday, following violent protests that resulted in numerous casualties.
