In a televised address, Muhammad Yunus discussed the “festival of rumours” threatening his administration ahead of the upcoming elections, attributing them to defeated political forces linked to Sheikh Hasina’s regime. He called for unity among citizens to combat disinformation and recalled the significance of the Liberation War as a backdrop to current tensions. Yunus also announced efforts to seek UN support in addressing the spread of false narratives.
On March 26, Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus addressed the public, stating that the country was facing a “festival of rumours” aimed at destabilizing his administration. He attributed these rumours to the “defeated forces,” suggesting they are linked to the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s regime. Yunus urged citizens to remain vigilant and united, especially as elections approach in July-August 2024, warning that rumours will intensify during this period.
Yunus emphasized the importance of tracing the origins of misleading information rather than dismissing it. He underscored that threats against his government come from various quarters, particularly through social media channels that attempt to undermine national unity. He additionally noted that his administration sought cooperation from the United Nations to combat the spread of disinformation, which UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has promised to support.
The background to Yunus’s leadership includes the ousting of Hasina’s government following mass protests, which saw Yunus assume his role shortly after leaving France. He highlighted ongoing threats as ultraright and Islamist forces attempt to marginalize supporters of Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War. This political unrest is further evidenced by assertions from political analysts and party leaders that elements trying to diminish the significance of the Liberation War are gaining traction.
During his address, Yunus commemorated the brutal events of March 25, 1971, when thousands of unarmed Bangalees were killed by Pakistani forces. This historical context frames the current political climate and the need for a unified front against divisive forces that aim to rewrite or erase the memories of the Liberation War.
Muhammad Yunus’s recent address highlights the ongoing political instability in Bangladesh, marked by a surge of disinformation campaigns attributed to his predecessor’s allies. As the nation approaches significant elections, Yunus emphasizes unity and awareness among the citizens to combat these challenges. The historical context of the Liberation War continues to be a pivotal point influencing current political dynamics, demanding vigilance against attempts to distort this narrative.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
