Muhammad Yunus Addresses Rumours Amidst Bangladesh’s Political Landscape

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus addresses the spread of rumours against his administration, attributing them to defeated political forces and warning that they may escalate as elections approach. He encourages unity and awareness among citizens and has sought UN assistance in combating disinformation. Yunus also stresses the significance of the Liberation War in Bangladesh’s history.
In a recent televised address, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh remarked on the significant spread of what he termed a “festival of rumours” targeting his administration. He attributed this phenomenon to “the defeated force,” referring to the former regime of deposed premier Sheikh Hasina. Yunus highlighted that with the upcoming elections anticipated around July-August 2024, the intensity of these rumours would likely escalate.
Yunus urged the citizens of Bangladesh to actively combat these misleading narratives through awareness and unity. He advised them to scrutinize the origin of any disturbing gossip, cautioning that hostile forces were spending considerable resources to manipulate public perception. He stated, “Always keep in mind we are in a war situation,” emphasizing the need for vigilance against misinformation.
In his address, Yunus mentioned that the government sought assistance from the United Nations to tackle the issue of rumour proliferation. He said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, following his recent visit to Bangladesh, assured cooperation in this endeavor. The Chief Adviser pointed out that social media is being exploited as a tool for these conspiracies.
The backdrop of Yunus’s tenure includes his ascension to power following the ousting of Hasina’s regime during a mass student protest in August 2024. Critically, he acknowledged the sacrifices made during the Liberation War of 1971, indicating that March 25, the day commemorating countless civilian deaths in that conflict, marks an important historical moment.
He cautioned against attempts to undermine the legacy of the Liberation War, suggesting that some parties and groups are attempting to erase or distort the historical narrative surrounding it. Prominent figures from various political backgrounds echoed similar sentiments, expressing concern over attempts to diminish the memory of Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.
In summary, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus addressed the alarming rise of disinformation targeting his government while encouraging unity and vigilance among the populace. He emphasized the necessity of combating misleading narratives, particularly in light of the anticipated elections. Furthermore, the need for international support in curbing these rumours underscores the fragile political landscape in Bangladesh, while the remembrance of the Liberation War remains a central theme in national discourse.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com