Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced today that the interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, will be officially sworn in tomorrow evening. The ceremony is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. General Waker also noted that the advisory council may consist of up to 15 members.
The Army Chief expressed optimism that normalcy could be restored within three to four days, highlighting recent improvements in the national situation. He assured that legal actions would be pursued against those responsible for recent violence. General Waker confirmed that he is working closely with the air force and navy chiefs to manage the crisis effectively.
In his remarks about Professor Yunus, General Waker said, “I had a very positive conversation with him. He is eager to assume this role, and I am confident he will guide us successfully through the democratic process. His leadership will be beneficial for our nation.”
The country has been in upheaval since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and departure on August 5, following a mass uprising against her and the Awami League government. The ensuing violence and rioting have led to at least 142 deaths nationwide.
The unrest initially stemmed from student demands for reforms to the quota system for public service jobs. Despite the government’s attempt to address these demands with a reform circular on July 23, nearly 200 people had already died in clashes by that time.
On August 3, protesters called for Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, blaming her government for the violence. The government was toppled within three days. Sheikh Hasina was serving her fourth consecutive term since 2009 and her fifth term overall.
In related developments, Professor Muhammad Yunus, who will serve as the chief adviser to the interim government, is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka tomorrow. A press release confirmed that Yunus will land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Emirates flight EK-582 from Dubai at 2:10 PM local time, subject to any delays.