Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus took oath on Thursday as the head of Bangladesh's interim government, marking the end of Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule as Prime Minister.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the presidential residence Bangabhaban, comes amid a period of turmoil and uncertainty for the nation.
"I will uphold, support, and protect the constitution and will perform my duties sincerely," Yunus declared at the ceremony. The 84-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner, recognised globally for his pioneering work in microcredit and microfinance through the Grameen Bank, returned to Dhaka from Paris, where he had been receiving medical treatment, just hours before the event. The oath was administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin.
Yunus's appointment follows the resignation and flight of Sheikh Hasina after violent student-led protests engulfed the nation, leading to widespread clashes and unrest, leaving more than 500 dead and over a thousand injured. The situation remains tense, with many anxiously observing how the new government will navigate the challenges ahead.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to Yunus, expressing hopes for an "early return to normalcy" in Bangladesh.
PM Modi in his message to Yunus stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and other minority communities during this transitional period.
"My best wishes to Professor Muhammad Yunus on the assumption of his new responsibilities. We hope for an early return to normalcy, ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities. India remains committed to working with Bangladesh to fulfill the shared aspirations of both our peoples for peace, security, and development," PM Modi conveyed via social media.
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