“The government that will be formed will protect the people”: Dr. Yunus
Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus has highlighted that restoring law and order is his foremost priority. He is scheduled to take the oath as Chief Advisor of the interim government tonight.
Dr. Yunus remarked, "If you place your trust and confidence in me, I will ensure that no one will face attacks anywhere in the country. This is our fundamental duty."
He also promised that the upcoming government will safeguard the people.
Dr. Yunus made these statements today, Thursday, at 2:10 PM, upon his arrival at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport from Paris, France.
He was greeted by Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman, the leaders of the other two military branches, coordinators of the anti-discrimination student movement, and civil society representatives. Following his arrival, he addressed the media present at the airport.
During his journey back, Dr. Yunus learned that there are disruptions to law and order in the country.
He expressed, "People are attacking one another, setting homes on fire, destroying and looting property. Offices and courts are being targeted, and minorities—Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Ahmadis—are being attacked.
These are elements of a conspiracy, not our concern. Our role is to protect everyone. Every person is our brother, our sister."
Dr. Yunus emphasized, "If I am unable to accomplish this, and if you do not heed my advice, then I am not needed here. Feel free to send me away, and I will focus on my work elsewhere. If you find my presence necessary, you must demonstrate that you are listening to me. If you do not, then I serve no purpose. My primary message is to ensure that the country is protected from chaos and violence, so we can advance along the path laid out by the students."
He also pointed out that chaos and violence are significant barriers to progress. Dr. Yunus said, "These are obstacles to the journey we have embarked upon. Therefore, we need to counter these threats, whether by persuasion or through law enforcement. Resolving issues through violence is unacceptable.”
“Our law enforcement must be capable of handling matters effectively when entrusted with them. We need to prevent situations where individuals are released after bribery. Building that trust is essential."
Dr. Yunus remarked that the students have achieved significant milestones, and now it is their duty to reform the entire system. He noted, "There is a concept of government, but it lacks the people's trust. The government is often perceived as an oppressive force that inflicts suffering at every opportunity. This is not what a government should be."
Dr. Yunus stated, "The government should inspire confidence in the people, making them feel assured that it will offer support and protection."
He emphasized that the new government will safeguard the people. Dr. Yunus explained, "It will earn the people's trust naturally. There will be no need for anyone to be coerced into acknowledging its efficacy. People will recognize on their own that government officials are their allies, committed to their protection. Restoring this trust is crucial. Only then will people fully engage."
At the outset of his media interaction, Dr. Yunus remarked, "Today is a day of pride for us. The revolution that has led to a new Victory Day for Bangladesh must be built upon and strengthened. I offer my heartfelt praise and gratitude to the young generation who made this achievement possible."
Many coordinators of the anti-discrimination movement, who played a key role in opposing Sheikh Hasina's government, went to the airport to welcome Dr. Yunus. These coordinators were present during the media interaction, and Dr. Yunus acknowledged their support, saying, "They have been by my side. They have safeguarded this country and contributed to its renewed vigor. We aim to advance and protect this revitalized Bangladesh."
Dr. Yunus also honored Abu Saeed, a student from Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur who was killed during a quota reform clash.
With emotion, he said, "Today we remember Abu Saeed. His image is firmly etched in the minds of every Bangladeshi, and his bravery is unforgettable. He stood boldly in front of danger. Since then, no young person has backed down. They stood firm, saying, 'Fire as much as you want; we are here.' This spirit fueled the movement across Bangladesh and contributed to the country's second independence."
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