DHAKA: Renowned Bangladeshi Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, celebrated for his transformative microfinance initiatives, finds himself embroiled in a political storm as he contends with mounting hostility from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government.
Yunus, whose pioneering microfinance bank has uplifted countless individuals from poverty, reveals the perplexing animosity directed towards him by Prime Minister Hasina, suggesting that he is perceived as a political adversary.
The octogenarian philanthropist, aged 83, laments the derogatory remarks hurled at him by the prime minister, attributing the strained relationship to political tensions rather than personal animosity.
Yunus’s recent legal troubles, including the forced takeover of his businesses and his conviction in a contested criminal case, underscore the politically charged atmosphere surrounding his activities in Bangladesh.
Despite facing over 100 charges, Yunus contends that the allegations lack merit and are politically motivated, casting doubt on the integrity of the legal proceedings initiated against him.
International figures, including former US President Barack Obama and ex-UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, have rallied behind Yunus, denouncing the judicial harassment he faces and expressing concerns for his safety and freedom.
Critics decry the erosion of democratic principles in Bangladesh, highlighting the absence of genuine opposition parties and the suppression of dissent under Prime Minister Hasina’s rule.
Yunus, once an advocate for political reform through his “Citizen’s Power” movement, has since retreated from direct involvement in politics, disillusioned by internal power struggles and the entrenched dominance of established political factions.
Despite mounting challenges, Yunus remains steadfast in his commitment to Bangladesh, rejecting offers of exile and reaffirming his dedication to advancing social and environmental causes within his homeland.
As Yunus confronts adversity, his unwavering resolve serves as a beacon of hope for millions worldwide, emblematic of the resilience and determination necessary to effect positive change amidst formidable obstacles.
