Being present during the swearing-in of Professor Yunus as the head advisor of the transitional government felt eerily familiar. It reminded me of my time as a postgraduate student in a Californian university in 2006. The highlight of that period was hearing the news of Professor Yunus receiving the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize. For a country like Bangladesh, this was a prime achievement that surpassed anything else since its independence in 1971.
However, in the years that followed, political turbulence relentlessly swept through the country. In fact, since its violent creation in 1971, the political scenario of Bangladesh has been a rollercoaster ride. The reins of power have fluctuated constantly between authoritarian leaders and demagogues who lacked expertise in both politics and economics, which was evident in their leadership styles.
Attempting to wield their power, these leaders often manipulated election procedures, arrogantly boasted about their fabricated victories, and followed ineffective methods to govern the country. As a result, sloppy management became the norm. Consequently, common people began feeling vulnerable, betrayed, and trapped in a persisting state of political turmoil.
In an environment like this, even the prodigious accomplishment of winning a Nobel Prize was deemed scandalous. Regardless, the fact remains that Professor Yunus is our star shining bright in the dark night sky. He, with his exceptional charm and reputation, holds the potential to guide the nation towards a brighter future.
Sadly, unless broad revisions in the electoral, jurisdictional, financial, administrative, and constitutional aspects are embraced, the nation risks spiralling further into the depths of crime, corruption, and inequity. It creates an urgent need for a reformist who can steer us towards a fair and representative election, initiating key changes.
The nation longed for a leader, someone who embodies authenticity and is a paragon of virtue. Among all, Professor Yunus seemed to possess the emotional and professional resources to step into this role. When he agreed to take up the position of chief advisor to the interim government, the July revolution found its rock-solid base.
But as the dawn of progress and reform was on the horizon with the transitional government stepping in, the remnants of the preceding regime loomed ominously – threatening to pull us back into the abyss. Hope began to fade, and a collective sense of despair washed over the citizens. The challenges seemed too great for the interim government, and tension kept building in the already-volatile nation.
The lasting impacts of past regimes had cemented a culture of political instability and reckless political behaviour so deeply that finding an immediate solution seemed impossible. The unity of the masses waned, resistance lowered. Ignorance was being mistaken for might, and arrogance was considered praiseworthy.
On the contrary, Professor Yunus represents the polar opposite of this political scene. His worldview is pragmatic, not idealistic or mystical. His approach aligns the political framework with economic goals – striving to eliminate poverty, unemployment, and achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
He carries an intensive dedication to bring about a positive change in the world. Certainly, a figure of this magnitude finds himself out of place amidst the disorderliness of the existing politics. This makes Professor Yunus essential for mentoring the nation and elevating it to new altitudes.
The populace is desperate to break free from the cycle of deceitful politics and mindless violence. However beneficial Professor Yunus’s role might be anticipated to be, he has inherited a country on the verge of bankruptcy. The country seems to be strapped for cash while inflation is mounting and commodity prices are skyrocketing.
This unforgiving loop poses a severe threat that the transitional government is racing against, adversely impacting its public perception and functionality. The nation appears hollow at its very core, constantly abuzz with schemes and manipulative propagandas. Strife with neighbouring entities is intensifying.
This period is indeed a singular chapter in our national history books. If we don’t navigate cautiously through these troubled waters, predicting the fate of tomorrow’s Bangladesh becomes uncertain. A leading figure, who holds the nation’s interest above personal gain and material wealth, is vital for the country to blossom anew.
We, as a nation, have been fortunate enough to find such a leader in Professor Yunus. His dedication to generating prosperity and ensuring universal employment, along with fulfilling his commitment to a net-zero carbon emissions economy, puts him beyond politics. With leaders like him, Bangladesh can march towards a brighter, more promising future.