Lost Glory of State Institutions Will Be Restored: Dr Yunus

In a powerful and historic address to the nation, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the newly appointed Chief Adviser of Bangladesh's interim government, unveiled a bold vision for a nation reborn—a vision where justice, freedom, and the integrity of state institutions are restored after years of autocratic rule. His televised speech, delivered from the prestigious Bangabhaban on Thursday, marked what he called "the second independence" for Bangladesh, a new chapter in the country's history.

Globally renowned as a Nobel laureate for his pioneering work in microfinance and social entrepreneurship, Dr. Yunus now faces perhaps his greatest challenge yet: leading a government formed out of a mass uprising that toppled the long-standing autocratic regime. In his first order of business, Dr. Yunus made it unequivocally clear that justice would be served to those who had committed crimes under the previous government.

"Proper punishment will be given soon to those who committed crimes while being used by the autocratic government in its various endeavors," Dr. Yunus declared, his voice firm with resolve. "The crimes across all sectors will be tried." This statement was more than a mere promise of justice—it was a rallying cry to restore the integrity and honor of Bangladesh’s state institutions, which had been severely compromised through years of exploitation and corruption.

Dr. Yunus did not mince words in his condemnation of the ousted regime, accusing it of clinging to power by systematically undermining state institutions. "The cruel and ousted autocratic regime had maintained its grip on power by manipulating state institutions. We'll bring back the lost glory of these institutions, foiling those efforts by the previous government," he vowed.

The Chief Adviser's message was clear: it was time for every ministry, agency, educational institution, and sector of society to reclaim their rightful place in the nation’s democratic framework. He urged members of these institutions to step forward with renewed vigor and dedication, playing their part in the country's progress. "On behalf of the nation, I urge everyone to step forward fearlessly in their respective workplaces, contributing their full capacity with enthusiasm and joy," he appealed, signaling a call to action for all Bangladeshis.

Dr. Yunus framed this moment as a new dawn for Bangladesh, a "second independence" where the nation would not only recover from the abuses of the past but also ascend to new heights of national pride and global respect. He spoke passionately about the sacrifices made during the recent mass movement, particularly highlighting the students who had given their lives for the cause of freedom and justice. "The students have embraced martyrdom to secure an environment where all citizens can live with freedom, free from fear and worry," he said, honoring their ultimate sacrifice and the ideals they fought for.

This interim administration, Dr. Yunus emphasized, is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. It was not born out of political maneuvering but from a genuine mass upsurge, representing the collective will of the nation. "All citizens of the country will have the right to fulfill their aspirations under this administration," he asserted, reinforcing his commitment to a government that serves every Bangladeshi, irrespective of their political identity or opinion.

The Chief Adviser also issued a stern warning to those who might seek to destabilize the newly formed government. He declared that the victorious students, along with the people and law enforcement agencies, would stand united to thwart any attempts to spread chaos and anarchy. "The victorious students, along with the people and law enforcement agencies, will foil any effort to spread the poison of anarchy with all their strength," he proclaimed, leaving no doubt about the government's resolve to maintain order and peace.

Looking ahead, Dr. Yunus painted a hopeful picture of a new era for Bangladesh, one where democracy, justice, and human rights are upheld as fundamental principles. With the fall of the autocratic regime, he said, the rising sun of tomorrow would usher in a time where every citizen could enjoy full freedom of expression without fear. "The rising sun of tomorrow will herald a new era where people, regardless of political identity or opinion, will be able to enjoy full freedom of expression without fear, with the government upholding democracy, justice, and human rights," he said, offering a vision of hope and renewal.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Yunus called on the people of Bangladesh to support the interim government in achieving its goals. "Cooperate with us to achieve this goal," he appealed, urging every citizen to actively participate in the nation’s transformation. His words were met with widespread approval, as citizens across the country, and indeed around the world, looked to Bangladesh with renewed hope and admiration.

"The entire world is saying with wonder, 'Bravo Bangladesh, and bravo the students of Bangladesh.' We aim to build on this achievement and take it even further," Dr. Yunus concluded, signaling a new chapter in the country's history.

As Dr. Yunus steps into this critical leadership role, the weight of expectations rests heavily on his shoulders. His commitment to restoring the nation's institutions and ensuring justice for past wrongs is a formidable task, but one that he appears ready to undertake with the same determination that has defined his career. In the days and months to come, the people of Bangladesh, and the world, will be watching closely as Dr. Yunus and his government strive to fulfill the promises made in this landmark address.