Muhammad Yunus articulated his vision for Bangladesh’s future and sought political support to implement the reforms he proposes.
In his second televised address to the nation 17 days after taking office, the caretaker prime minister outlined his priorities and called for agreement among parties on responsibilities for the rest of his term, but did not give specifics.
Yunus’ speech was broadcast simultaneously on state media on Sunday evening amid ongoing protests in Dhaka that have paralyzed key government agencies, including the secretariat.
Yunus recently met with NGO leaders to discuss the current political situation following the severe criticism from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) over the actions of the caretaker government.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir had earlier demanded a clear outline of Yunus’ intentions if he comes to power.
Responding to these demands in his speech, Yunus said: “We have initiated various reforms and I urge the people to discuss what must be achieved as a minimum and what can be partially met.”
“This dialogue will provide direction, but the final decision is political and should emerge from a political discussion. I can assure you that I will not seek an extension to my term,” he added.
Yunus also addressed the looming question of when the caretaker government will step down: “The answer is in your hands. It is time to decide when to remove us from office. We took up this responsibility at the call of students in the midst of a national crisis. The timing of elections is a purely political decision.”
His speech came after a period of turmoil since Sheikh Hasina’s government was ousted by a bloody student-led uprising on August 5 after 15 years in power.
Yunus was appointed chief adviser on August 8 but since then there has been widespread unrest, with various groups protesting, taking to the streets and storming government secretariat offices.
Speaking about the challenges they face, Yunus cited the fragile state of governance: “We have had to start rebuilding the state on a shaky foundation, one could even say a structure that works against the public interest.”
“We aim to rebuild Bangladesh in a way that makes the people the source of all strength. To repay the sacrifices of our young generation, students and people, we must succeed in the task of reforming the country. We have no other choice.”
Banking and Finance Sector
Yunus announced efforts to restore governance in the banking sector, a centre of corruption and embezzlement.
“Skilled manpower has been recruited to bring order to the banking sector, create a business-friendly environment and curb inflation and prices of essential commodities.”
“A banking committee has been established for long-term reforms and a comprehensive financial sector reform blueprint will be published soon. Immediate steps are being taken to address turmoil in the stock market, transport sector and other areas,” he said.
Judiciary
The Chief Adviser also outlined plans to keep the judiciary free from corruption and political influence: “Efforts have been launched to ensure the independence and accountability of the judiciary. Justice will be delivered for all heinous crimes, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and abductions, committed by the former fascist regime.”
“A police commission will be established to build a people-oriented, fair and accountable law enforcement system.”
Freedom of the Press
Yunus pledged to ensure freedom of the press and the free flow of information.
“The fascist regime imposed a heavy burden of partisan control and repression on the media. We are committed to protecting the people’s right to information. Legal and other obstacles hindering the flow of information will be removed and all laws hindering freedom of expression will be revised,” he said.
Education Reform
Yunus highlighted the dire state of the education sector and promised comprehensive reform as one of his government’s top priorities.
“As you all know, after I took office, we reopened all educational institutions within the shortest possible time. Our mission is to ensure a creative, safe and fear-free environment for students and we will immediately start updating our curricula to meet contemporary needs,” he said.
Local Government
Yunus noted that under the previous regime, elected representatives were excluded from city, municipal, district and county administrations, and expressed his determination to ensure true representation in local government.
“To strengthen democracy, we will empower local governments and ensure decentralization of power. We will complete reforms across the executive, judiciary, election commission and electoral systems, and hold free, fair and inclusive elections,” he said.
Anti-corruption stance
The Chief Adviser reiterated the interim government’s firm stance against corruption.
“All advisers will disclose their assets within the shortest possible time and this will gradually become a regular and compulsory practice for all government employees. An ordinance will be issued to appoint an Ombudsman as promised in Article 77 of the Constitution,” he said.
“A committee has already been formed to draft a white paper on corruption, money laundering, anti-public contracts and looting in the guise of projects over the last 15 years,” he added.
Yunus asked the public for suggestions on how to eradicate bribery, saying, “I believe that if we can make progress on this issue alone, this government will be remembered as one that has contributed greatly to the country. I pledge to do my utmost on this issue.”
Healthcare reform
The caretaker prime minister added that he was also working to reform the health sector, which is considered one of the most corrupt.
“We will ensure accountability of all involved, modernise hospitals and ensure regular access to government doctors and specialists. We are determined to take necessary steps to decentralise health services so that people in all parts of the country have equal access to healthcare.”
Security Forces Reform
Regarding concerns about the integrity of the security forces, Yunus said: “Our patriotic army, police, BFC Bangladesh and Rapid Action Battalion have been tarnished for being used for enforced disappearances and torture. We do not want to see these forces tarnished by the actions of a few over-zealous personnel.”
“To prevent such heinous acts in the future, we will identify and punish those responsible. We will take steps to ensure that members of our patriotic forces are not forced to commit murder, disappearances and torture, no matter how high the orders come from.”