Bangladesh Unrest: Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus appointed interim government head

Yunus, who is celebrated for his work in alleviating poverty, stated he is prepared to lead during this turbulent time and called for free elections.

Bangladesh's Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer, Muhammad Yunus, has been appointed to lead an interim government following the dramatic ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid intense protests. President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the decision early Wednesday after a high-level meeting with military leaders and the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) group.

Shahabuddin's office confirmed that Yunus will serve as the chief advisor of the interim government, which is expected to be formed quickly. The announcement comes after a series of violent clashes that culminated in Hasina’s resignation and flight from the country on August 5.

"The president has asked the people to help ride out the crisis. Quick formation of an interim government is necessary to overcome the crisis," Shahabuddin's office issued a statement.

In response to the crisis, Shahabuddin also dismissed the national police chief and replaced him, as well as agreeing to dissolve parliament and call for elections within three months, a key demand from protest leaders and the opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP).

Yunus, who is celebrated for his work in alleviating poverty, stated he is prepared to lead during this turbulent time and called for free elections. His appointment follows a series of upheavals, including the release of ex-prime minister Khaleda Zia from house arrest and significant military reshuffles.

The protests, which began as student-led demonstrations over job quotas, escalated into widespread unrest, resulting in at least 432 deaths. Demonstrators have attacked government buildings, media stations, and properties linked to Hasina's administration, leading to a chaotic situation across the capital, Dhaka.

International reactions have been mixed, with calls for calm from neighbouring India and China, while human rights groups and diplomats express concern over attacks on minority groups. The interim government, under Yunus, faces the challenge of stabilising the nation and restoring democratic processes.