Dhaka, Bangladesh: On the occassion of Bangladesh’s Independence Day, the head of the interim government, Muhammad Yunus, delivered a powerful speech, recalling the sacrifices of 1971 and addressing the country’s current challenges. He paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War and the victims of the recent July Uprising, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for a corruption-free and economically stable Bangladesh.
Relations with India, China, and Pakistan
Muhammad Yunus highlighted Bangladesh’s geopolitical importance and the need for regional cooperation. He stressed the potential of a joint economy involving Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Bhutan, particularly in energy trade. He acknowledged Nepal and Bhutan’s eagerness to supply hydropower to Bangladesh, which could reduce dependence on fossil fuels and attract foreign investment.
Discussing Bangladesh-China ties, Yunus announced his upcoming visit to Beijing to meet President Xi Jinping and business leaders. He emphasized China’s growing interest in Bangladesh’s renewable energy sector and export potential, including the import of agricultural products like mangoes and jackfruit. The visit is expected to bolster economic collaboration between the two nations.
Regarding Pakistan, Yunus condemned the atrocities committed by the Pakistani military on the night of March 25, 1971, and reiterated the importance of remembering history. While diplomatic relations remain stable, he made it clear that Bangladesh has not forgotten its past struggles against oppression.
Addressing the Economic Crisis
Bangladesh is grappling with an economic downturn, a consequence of years of corruption under the previous Awami League government, according to Yunus. He accused the former administration of looting public resources and mismanaging the banking sector.
Since taking charge, the interim government has implemented measures to control inflation and stabilize the economy. Yunus noted that inflation had dropped to 9.32% in February—the lowest in 22 months—and is projected to fall below 8% by June. He credited rising remittance inflows, which reached $2.5 billion in February, as a crucial factor in economic recovery.
Additionally, efforts have been made to curb price hikes during Ramadan, ensuring food affordability and uninterrupted electricity supply. The government is also working to restore faith in financial institutions and track down illicit money siphoned abroad by corrupt officials.
The Prospect of a ‘Second Uprising’ and a Nation in War
In a striking statement, Yunus declared that Bangladesh is in a state of war—not against an external enemy, but against corruption, disinformation, and the remnants of the previous regime. He warned of an ongoing campaign to destabilize the nation through misinformation, particularly on social media.
The July Uprising, which led to the ousting of the Awami League, was described as the first phase of a revolution, with the second phase now underway. He urged citizens to remain vigilant against propaganda aimed at reversing the progress made by the interim government.
A New Bangladesh: Reforms and Vision for the Future
Yunus laid out his vision for a ‘New Bangladesh,’ emphasizing the role of technology and transparency in governance. Key reforms include the abolition of police verification for passport issuance, introduction of e-filing in government offices, and a complete overhaul of the National Revenue Board to prevent tax evasion.
He also underscored the importance of women’s empowerment, urging families, schools, and religious institutions to eliminate gender discrimination. The interim government is committed to ensuring women’s active participation in shaping Bangladesh’s future.
Conclusion
Md. Yunus’s speech reflected a nation at a crossroads—balancing the weight of its past with aspirations for a corruption-free, economically robust, and technologically advanced future. As Bangladesh navigates through political and economic turmoil, the interim government’s policies and the people’s resilience will determine the country’s trajectory in the coming months.
