Bangladeshi President Critiques Former Interim Government Leader Over Constitutional Violations
President Shahabuddin's Criticism of Yunus
On Monday, Mohammed Shahabuddin, the President of Bangladesh, expressed his disapproval of Muhammad Yunus, the leader of the previous interim government, accusing him of failing to adhere to the nation's constitution.
In a discussion with a local newspaper, Shahabuddin elaborated on various facets of his interactions with Yunus's administration.
He asserted that the interim government neglected to keep him informed about significant decisions, including a trade agreement with the United States that was revealed on February 9, just three days prior to the national elections.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party emerged victorious in the elections held on February 12, leading to the formation of a new government with Tarique Rahman as prime minister.
These elections marked the first since the removal of Sheikh Hasina from power in August 2024, following extensive protests led by students against her Awami League government, which had been in control for 16 years.
Yunus's interim government assumed power after Hasina's departure.
Shahabuddin, who was elected president in 2023 without opposition, was a candidate from Hasina's Awami League party.
During the interview, he claimed that the 18-month tenure of the interim government was marked by numerous attempts to disrupt the nation's peace and create a constitutional void.
He also suggested that there was a conspiracy aimed at his removal, which ultimately failed due to the backing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.
Shahabuddin noted that Yunus undertook over a dozen international trips without informing him.
He stated, “The Constitution mandates that the chief advisor must meet with the president after returning from foreign trips to report on the outcomes.”
Shahabuddin emphasized that Yunus was required to provide written updates regarding discussions, agreements, and negotiations that took place during these trips.
Yunus, who resigned following the election of the new government, has yet to respond to these accusations.
When questioned about his awareness of the US trade deal, Shahabuddin replied, “I do not know anything.”
He reiterated that it was the interim government's constitutional duty to inform him about such agreements, which Yunus allegedly failed to do.
Additionally, he claimed that two of his official foreign trips were obstructed during Yunus's administration.