No Interest in Joining Elected Government: Dr. Yunus

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday firmly ruled out any intention of joining the next elected government, stating that his caretaker administration's sole responsibility is to ensure a smooth and credible transition of power.

“No way, no way,” Yunus responded when asked by a journalist at Chatham House whether he or any member of his Council of Advisers would be part of the future elected government. “I believe none of our cabinet members have such a desire.”

He emphasised that the caretaker government's mandate is clear: to hold a free and fair election and to ensure the people are satisfied with the transition process. “We want to make sure the election is right. That is our critical responsibility,” he said.

The remarks came during a question-and-answer session following his talk at the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House) in London, where Yunus is currently on a four-day official visit.

Responding to a question about the Awami League, Prof Yunus noted that a debate exists regarding whether the party can still be considered a legitimate political entity, given the allegations of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and corruption. “Would you still call it a political party? That’s a debate—not a judgment,” he remarked.

Yunus said he believed the political chapter involving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had ended when she left the country on August 5. “Those who fled showed no remorse—they seemed happy,” he added.

He further stated that the Awami League’s political activities have been suspended temporarily in the interest of national safety and political stability. “Activities will remain suspended until trials are concluded. That’s all we have done,” he clarified.

On the issue of press freedom, Yunus claimed the media currently enjoys a level of freedom unprecedented in the country's history.

When asked about the reported demolition of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum and accusations of excluding certain groups from the political process, Yunus said the administration is working to restore order. “A lot of issues came at once. We can’t handle everything overnight. Bringing order to the nation has been a major task.”