CA Vows to Hold Hasina Regime Leaders Accountable

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has vowed to ensure that leaders from the ousted Sheikh Hasina regime face justice, warning that failure to do so would lead to a loss of public trust. "We will bring her (Hasina) to justice. It has to happen, or people will not forgive us," Yunus told The National, emphasizing that Hasina and her officials must return to Bangladesh to face legal action for their role in violent crackdowns during her time in power.

Prof. Yunus, appointed Chief Adviser to the interim government in August 2024 after Hasina fled Bangladesh, condemned the brutal repression of protests under her rule, which resulted in an estimated 1,400 deaths and thousands more injured. Hasina, who ruled for 15 years, fled to India after her residence was stormed by protesters, and has remained in exile.

"We've notified India that Sheikh Hasina should be repatriated. We have substantial evidence, including the UN High Commissioner's Human Rights report," Yunus explained. "The UN has documented everything they did. We have gathered extensive proof, and we’ve already started the legal process to bring her to justice."

The violence during the protests, which included police shootings, left many victims, with 13% of the casualties believed to be children. Bangladesh’s police also reported 44 officers killed during the unrest.

During the protests, Bangladeshis in the UAE also took part in demonstrations, leading to the arrest of 53 individuals. Yunus personally intervened with the President of the UAE to secure their release, a gesture that improved relations between Bangladesh and the UAE. "The UAE's response was wonderful, and the whole of Bangladesh celebrated their release," Yunus said, noting the importance of Bangladesh’s 1.2 million workers in the UAE.

Turning to domestic matters, Yunus and his government are focused on rebuilding the country with significant reforms. Six commissions have been set up to overhaul the judiciary, electoral system, police, and administration, while an anti-corruption commission will work to recover stolen government funds.

"The immediate goal is to restore law and order and revitalize the economy and banking system," Yunus said. "We will consult with political parties and civil society on which reforms to prioritize, aiming for a transparent election in December."

Yunus, who has expressed his commitment to stepping down once reforms are in place, added, "When my task is complete, I will hand over to the elected government."