Interim government Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, on Sunday, accused former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of destroying every institution in Bangladesh in her effort to retain power.
"Sheikh Hasina's dictatorship has destroyed all the institutions of the country. The judiciary has collapsed, democratic rights have been undermined for a long time, and rigged elections have been held. A young society grew up disenfranchised. Bank robbery happened due to political influence," Yunus stated during a briefing for foreign diplomats stationed in Dhaka at the InterContinental hotel.
This marks the first briefing by Yunus to diplomats since the inception of the interim government.
He explained that he took up the responsibility at the request of the students and paid deep respect to those who sacrificed their lives in the recent student movement.
Yunus reassured the international community that the interim government is committed to holding free, fair, and participatory elections once "deep reforms" are completed. He also expressed Bangladesh's gratitude to friendly nations for their support during the crisis.
"We are going through a challenging time right now. It has been two weeks since the second revolution in Bangladesh. Thousands of people have formed resistance against dictator Sheikh Hasina. She fled the country," Yunus said, highlighting the resolve of students fighting for the freedom of the common people.
"Hundreds of people died, thousands were injured. I hope you can help us. Many students sustained bullet injuries, many with rubber bullets in their eyes," he added.
Yunus called for the international community's support in building a poverty-free and prosperous Bangladesh, noting that the country is now close to normalcy.
Over 50 diplomats, including representatives from UN agencies, attended the briefing, where Yunus also exchanged pleasantries with the attendees.