Blinken Supports Nobel Laureate Yunus Leading Bangladesh's Peaceful Transition

US Secretary of State Tony Blinken expressed support for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who was sworn in as the head of Bangladesh's interim government. Blinken stated, "The United States supports his call for calm and peace and remains committed to working with Bangladesh as it charts a democratic and prosperous future for the people in Bangladesh," on X.

Yunus, 84, took the oath of office on Thursday, administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin at the presidential palace Bangabhaban. This followed the sudden resignation and departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India amid violent protests over a controversial job quota system.

US Lawmakers Call for Sanctions

Six lawmakers have urged Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to impose sanctions on officials from the previous government responsible for violence against student protestors. They highlighted that while Sheikh Hasina has fled, senior leaders of the Awami League have not faced any consequences for their human rights violations.

The lawmakers wrote, "Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, now leading Bangladesh’s interim government, urgently called on world leaders to end the violence against protestors in Bangladesh. Former Army Chief Iqbal Karim Bhuiyan urged the government to cease engaging its armed forces in a 'disgraceful campaign.'"

Sanctions on Rapid Action Battalion

The lawmakers also mentioned that US sanctions on Bangladesh’s Rapid Action Battalion had reduced extrajudicial killings but were insufficient given the current situation. They urged Yellen to use all applicable authorities to impose targeted sanctions on General Secretary Obaidul Quader and Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan.

"US law requires action in the face of gross violations of human rights," they wrote, emphasizing the need for a strong response to the Awami League's actions.

Formation of Interim Government

A 16-member council of advisers has been announced to assist Yunus in managing state affairs. This move aims to stabilize the country following Sheikh Hasina's abrupt resignation and departure.

Blinken added, "I welcome the swearing-in of Dr. Muhammad Yunus to lead the interim government in Bangladesh." His statement reflects US support for Yunus's leadership during this transitional period.

The situation in Bangladesh remains tense as Yunus steps into his new role amidst ongoing unrest and calls for international intervention to address human rights abuses.