S M Masud Rana

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s autocracy has destroyed every institution in the country, said Dr. Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser to the interim government. He said, “I have taken charge of the country at a time when there is extreme chaos in almost all areas. In an attempt to stay in power, Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic government has destroyed every institution in the country. The justice system is broken. Democratic rights were suppressed through a long decade and a half of ruthless brutality. The election was rigged. The younger generation has grown up without exercising their right to vote. The bank was looted with full political patronage. State coffers have been looted by abuse of power. Necessary reforms will be made in Election Commission, Judiciary, Public Administration, Law and Order Forces and Media. The interim government will then hold a free, fair and participatory election.”

Dr. Yunus said this at the first briefing of the ambassadors of various foreign missions, representatives of international organizations including the United Nations in a hotel in the capital yesterday.

Chief Adviser said, ‘Bangladesh is happy to be among friends. Two weeks ago, Bangladesh witnessed the second revolution. Millions of students rose up against the brutal dictatorship of Sheikh Hasina. She left the country after her party’s student body and law enforcement forces committed the worst civilian massacre.’

Dr. Yunus said, “I have deep respect for all those brave students and innocent people who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”

The Chief Adviser welcomed the UN investigation into the July-August protests in the country. He said, he wants an impartial investigation of this incident. Bangladesh government will assist the United Nations in the investigation.

Later in the briefing, Chief Adviser’s press secretary Shafiqul Alam told reporters that the Chief Adviser has sought the full support of foreign diplomats.

This was the first briefing by the Chief Adviser to diplomats stationed in Dhaka since the interim government’s inception. Over 50 diplomats, including representatives from UN agencies, attended the briefing.
The chief adviser greeted the diplomats during the event.