Whatever you want, give it to us in writing — Yunus Addresses the Nation
In a landmark address to the nation, Yunus laid out a comprehensive plan for the future of Bangladesh, emphasizing a commitment to justice, reform, and unity in the wake of the country’s recent political turmoil. With a call for patience and collaboration, he outlined the government’s approach to tackling the significant challenges inherited from years of misrule and corruption. His message was clear: the government is here to serve the people, but it needs the support and trust of the nation to succeed.
Justice and Accountability: A Priority
Yunus began by addressing the urgent need for justice following the recent mass uprising, which saw widespread violence and casualties. He announced the initiation of an investigation into these events, inviting the United Nations Human Rights Commission to oversee the process. The first team has already arrived, signaling the government’s seriousness in addressing the grievances of the people.
In a move to heal the wounds of the nation, Yunus pledged to withdraw the majority of the thousans of false cases filed against students involved in the protests. He also promised the release of detained activists and the rehabilitation of the families of martyrs. To honor those who sacrificed their lives, the government will establish the ‘July Genocide Memorial Foundation,’ a lasting tribute to their memory.
Recognizing the need for accountability within law enforcement, Yunus announced the formation of a Police Commission aimed at creating a non-partisan and accountable structure. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure that those responsible for extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and torture are brought to justice.
Comprehensive Reforms in Governance
Yunus acknowledged the deep-rooted issues in Bangladesh’s governance, particularly the corruption and misrule that have plagued the nation for years. To address this, the government will prepare a white paper documenting the corruption, money laundering, and public-interest violations of the past 15 years. This document will serve as a foundation for wide-reaching reforms.
One of the key areas of focus is the Election Commission, which Yunus plans to reform to ensure free, fair, and participatory elections. In a bid to promote transparency, he announced that all government advisors would disclose their assets, with this practice becoming mandatory for all officials over time. Additionally, an Ombudsman will be appointed as promised in Article 77 of the Constitution to combat corruption at the state level.
The judiciary, long criticized for its susceptibility to political influence, will also see significant reforms. Yunus committed to freeing the judiciary from corruption and ensuring its independence and accountability. This move is essential to restoring public trust in the nation’s legal system.
Economic and Sectoral Reforms
Bangladesh’s economic sectors are set to undergo significant changes under Yunus’s leadership. He announced plans to establish discipline and governance in the banking sector, which has been riddled with corruption and mismanagement. A banking commission will be formed to oversee long-term reforms, and skilled personnel will be recruited to help stabilize the sector. Efforts will also be made to address the chaos in the stock market and transportation sectors, which have been sources of public frustration.
In the agricultural sector, Yunus emphasized the importance of protecting farmers’ interests. He committed to ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their produce and outlined steps to modernize agriculture while protecting the environment.
The healthcare sector, identified as one of the most corrupt, will also see major reforms. Yunus promised to hold accountable those involved in healthcare corruption and to modernize hospitals. The government will work to ensure that all regions of the country have equal access to healthcare, addressing long-standing disparities.
Freedom of the Press and Information Flow
A free press is crucial for a functioning democracy, and Yunus is committed to ensuring that the media in Bangladesh can operate without fear of repression. He announced plans to remove laws that hinder the flow of information and restrict freedom of expression. The ban on foreign journalists entering the country has already been lifted, and visas will be issued promptly to ensure their access. Yunus also promised to amend oppressive provisions in existing laws that restrict freedom of expression, signaling a new era of transparency and openness.
Education and National Unity
Reforming the education sector is one of Yunus’s top priorities. The government plans to reopen all educational institutions quickly, ensuring a safe and fear-free environment for students. The curriculum will be rapidly updated to reflect the needs of a modern Bangladesh.
In a move to promote national unity, Yunus announced reforms to ensure equal protection under the law for women, children, the disabled, minorities, and indigenous people. A special assistant will be appointed to oversee national unity and development, ensuring that all citizens feel represented and protected by the government.
Environmental Protection and Climate Change
Yunus’s commitment to environmental protection was evident in his address. He aligned the government’s stance with that of environmentalists, emphasizing the importance of reducing carbon emissions to zero as the only way to combat climate change. The youth will play a crucial role in these initiatives, as the government seeks to involve them in efforts to protect the environment and ensure sustainable development.
Term-Limits of the Interim Government
Perhaps the most critical aspect of Yunus’s address was his clarification of the interim government’s position. He acknowledged the public’s interest in the duration of the government’s term, emphasizing that its role is temporary and focused on addressing the immediate national crisis. The decision on when the interim government will step down will be determined by the people and through political discussions, not by the government itself.
Yunus assured the nation that the government has no intention of extending its term beyond what is necessary. The interim government was appointed at the request of the students and supported by the general public, and it will prepare the Election Commission for an ideal election whenever the people demand it.
A Call for Bangladesh to Meet This Moment
In closing, Yunus called on the nation to support the government’s efforts to rebuild Bangladesh. He emphasized that the government is here to serve the people and that it needs their cooperation to succeed. “Whatever you want, give it to us in writing,” Yunus urged, highlighting the government’s openness to hearing the concerns of the people.
Yunus’s address marks a significant moment in Bangladesh’s history, as the nation stands at a crossroads. With a clear vision for the future and a commitment to justice, reform, and unity, the interim government is poised to lead the country through this critical period. The people of Bangladesh now have an opportunity to shape their future, and the government’s willingness to listen and act on their behalf offers a glimmer of hope in these challenging times.