Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the death of Adviser Hassan Ariff, who passed away on Friday. The Chief Adviser received the news of Hassan Ariff’s death upon his arrival in Dhaka from Dubai late Friday afternoon. In a condolence message, Prof Yunus said, “I am deeply shocked at his sudden demise. Adviser Hassan Ariff was a top lawyer who played a very significant role in the interim government.” He paid tribute to Hassan Ariff’s decades of public service, highlighting his contributions as a former adviser of a caretaker government and attorney general of the country. Adviser AF Hassan Ariff passes away “He will be remembered as a brilliant lawyer and for his legal activism and defending human rights of dissidents, dissenting voices, and the marginalised people of our society,” the Chief Adviser added. Prof Yunus conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul. Following his arrival, the Chief Adviser visited Labaid Hospital in Dhanmondi to pay his last respects to the late adviser.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Thursday said it is crucial to move beyond humanitarian interventions and shift focus towards the reconstruction of Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon. "Let D-8 therefore kickstart a process, with an approximate estimation of the costs of reconstruction in Palestine and Lebanon," he said, adding that they can thereon press on formulation of international strategies for resource mobilization. The Chief Adviser made the remarks while delivering the speech during a special session on humanitarian crisis and reconstruction challenges in Gaza and Lebanon on the sidelines of the D-8 Summit. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi chaired the session. Prof Yunus urges focus on attitudes, ethics in skilling young workforce The United Nations has cautioned that removing the 40 million tonnes of rubble left in the wake of Israel’s bombardment could take at least 15 years, Dr Yunus said. "We understand that the rubble may contain over 10,000 bodies of the deceased. And this is also contaminated with asbestos," he said. Dr Yunus said Bangladesh commends the government of Egypt for convening this special session. "We gather at a time when Israeli aggression and the 14-month long brutal genocide against the Palestinian people continue unabated in the occupied Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Words should suffice little," he said. To say the least, Dr Yunus said, they are in utter dismay at Israel’s blatant disregard to long-held international norms, laws and conventions. "The ways the hostilities in Lebanon are spreading, there are heightened fears of further escalation. This can lend to dire and long-term consequences for peace and stability across the region, impacting global society and polity, not just economy," he said. Dr Yunus urges Pakistan to resolve 1971 issues for improved ties From Cairo, Dr Yunus said, they must voice their unity and unwavering commitment, in solidarity with their Palestinian brothers and sisters, at this existential time in their history. "Throughout our history, Bangladesh has stood firmly in support of the Palestinian cause. We consistently condemned the illegal occupation and the violent repression carried out by Israel," said the Chief Adviser. He said they remain steadfast in advocating a just and lasting solution, through a two-State solution to the crisis, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and harmony. "Palestine has to emerge as a fully independent and viable State based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital," Dr Yunus said. "This is what we also articulated in detail before the International Court of Justice this February as the Court finally called Israel's occupation illegal, in its Advisory Opinion," he added. Bangladeshis are profoundly concerned over the current state of affairs and Palestinians are no expendable people, Dr Yunus said. "Every Palestinian life matters." The Chief Adviser said it is not an issue that merely concerns the Muslims. "Rather, a universal cause where human dignity is tested. It is about universal pledge to protect the vulnerable. It is indeed our moral duty to stand by them, resolutely." There are around six million Bangladeshi migrant workers and expatriate professionals, across the region, including in Lebanon who have been making significant contributions to the development of the countries across the Middle East, Dr Yunus said. Dhaka seeks ‘comprehensive roadmap’ for Rohingya repatriation "Their safety and security are at risk. We call upon all actors and stakeholders, indeed beyond the region, to take decisive and collective actions to end the brutalities unleashed by the Israeli forces," he said. The massacres in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon, are clear violations of international law, and constitute war crimes. "Those responsible must account. That is why, last November, Bangladesh stood up at the International Criminal Court asking for expeditious investigations into the heinous crimes against humanity," Dr Yunus said. Such actions on accountability can deter the perpetrators against further and future atrocities, he said. "Alongside, let us intensify our efforts on realisation of a viable two-State solution," Dr Yunus said.  

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus left  Dhaka early Wednesday on a three-day visit to Egypt to attend the 11th D-8 Summit in Cairo. The flight carrying Chief Adviser Prof Yunus departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 1:20am Wednesday, saud CA's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. Heads of government from several more countries, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, Turkey, Iran and Pakistan, will join the summit on December 19, Azad said. D-8: CA Dr Yunus set to embark on Egypt tour tonight Referring to the theme of this year's D-8 Summit, “Investing in Youth and Supporting SMEs: Shaping Tomorrow's Economy,” he said this summit is important for Bangladesh as the chief adviser has been speaking for utilising the strength and potential of youths after taking over the charge. “He (CA) always wants our youths to flourish with their full potential and he has been working to this end. Now he will get a scope to work on it in a global forum (D-8),” he said. Besides, the Chief Adviser will deliver a lecture in the Al-Azhar University in Cairo, said Azad. This week marks an "important moment" for the D-8 with the 48th Session of the D-8 Commission meeting held in Cairo. Over the next few days, key discussions will unfold, culminating in the 21st Session of the D-8 Council of Foreign Ministers on December 18 and the highly anticipated 11th D-8 Summit on December 19. Bangladesh already in middle-income trap: Debapriya These meetings will bring together leaders to strengthen economic cooperation and outline a shared vision for sustainable development among member states. The D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation, also known as Developing-8, is an organisation for development cooperation among Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey.

Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on Monday assured that Bangladesh Bank is fully prepared to ensure enhanced cash flow to banks across the country, enabling depositors to access their funds without hindrance. “No bank has been closed, and even the weakest institutions have been stabilised,” he said in his Victory Day address to the nation. Dr Yunus said that confidence and discipline are being steadily restored in the banking system, and announced that previous restrictions on cash withdrawals have been lifted, signalling a robust recovery within the banking sector. The Chief Adviser highlighted the interim government's success in rebuilding trust in the nation’s economic future, particularly with international financial institutions such as the World Bank. CA Dr Yunus promises to control prices, fix economy These institutions are now engaging with renewed enthusiasm to establish fresh financial collaborations with Bangladesh, he said. Referring to the economic challenges faced by the interim administration upon assuming office, Dr Yunus said, “When we took charge, the economy was on the verge of collapse. Over the past four months, we have introduced significant reforms to change its trajectory.” He underlined the government’s commitment to ensuring enhanced cash flow in crucial areas, which is expected to bolster public confidence and facilitate financial stability across the nation.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to fix the economy, Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on Monday called for collective efforts to keep essential commodity prices stable during the upcoming Ramadan. "We seek everyone's cooperation to ensure that prices remain manageable. We have already talked to businesspeople, and they have assured us that there will be no short supply (of commodities) in the market. If anyone tries to create an artificial crisis for excessive profit, we will take strict action against them," he said in a televised speech to the nation in the morning. Dr Yunus highlighted ongoing initiatives to curb market syndicates, including plans to establish alternative agricultural markets. National election likely between late 2025 or early 2026, says CA Dr Yunus The Chief Adviser said, "Over the past few months, the prices of certain goods have gone up. We are working to reduce prices by increasing supply, offering duty exemptions on imports, curbing middlemen's interference and enhancing market monitoring." Acknowledging the persistence of extortion in the transport sector, Dr Yunus said, "We have not yet been able to completely stop extortion in transportation. If this issue is resolved, we hope prices will fall further.” Dr Yunus also focused on the economic challenges inherited from the previous "fascist regime," saying that the interim government is working to rebuild a devastated economy and stabilise forex reserves. “In November 2024, export earnings rose to $4.12 billion, a 15.63% increase from the previous month. During the July-November period of 2024, total exports reached $16.11 billion, compared to $14.34 billion during the same period last year, reflecting a 12.34% year-on-year growth. Meanwhile, foreign exchange reserves have climbed to $19 billion,” he mentioned. Trials of fallen dictator, associates open to journalists, observers: Chief Adviser The Chief Adviser went on to say, "These indicators show that our economy is beginning to recover and conditions are improving." Prof Yunus acknowledged that inflation remains a pressing challenge and said, "The government is working sincerely to control inflation. Although we have not yet achieved the desired success, I am confident that inflation will soon come down."

In a Victory Day address to the nation on Monday, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus announced the interim government’s plan to establish a National Consensus Commission as part of ongoing reform initiatives. The chief adviser said that six reform commissions have already been formed under the interim government and are expected to submit their final reports soon. “Based on these reports, we are moving forward to create a National Consensus Commission composed of the chairpersons of these six commissions,” he added. National election likely between late 2025 or early 2026, says CA Dr Yunus The commission will engage with political parties and other stakeholders to identify areas of national consensus and provide recommendations for implementation. Dr. Yunus said, “Given the importance of building national consensus, I will serve as the chairperson of this commission.” He also announced that Professor Ali Riaz will serve as the commission’s vice-chairperson. The commission will have the authority to co-opt new members if necessary. Dr. Yunus expressed hope that the commission would begin its work next month after receiving the final reports from the six reform commissions. Chief Adviser and Timor-Leste President pay tribute to Freedom Fighters on Victory Day Its initial task will be to establish consensus on urgent decisions required for the election process, including determining a suitable timeline for holding the polls through consultations with all stakeholders, he added. The chief adviser said, “This commission will play a critical role in ensuring that the upcoming election is conducted in a fair and transparent manner, reflecting the aspirations of the people.”

Amid the growing expectation for an election roadmap, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday said the next national election can be arranged at a time between the end of 2025 and first half of 2026. "Broadly speaking, the election can be scheduled between the end of 2025 and the first half of 2026," he said in a televised speech to the nation in the morning. Dr Yunus said he has repeatedly appealed to all to hold the polls after completing all the major reforms. Chief Adviser and Timor-Leste President pay tribute to Freedom Fighters on Victory Day "However, if, and I repeat, “if”, due to political consensus, we have to hold the election on the basis of a flawless preparation of the voter list with minor reforms, then it may be possible to hold the elections by the end of 2025," he said. "And if we add to this the expected level of reforms in the electoral process and in light of the recommendations of the Election Reforms Commission and based on the national consensus, then it may take at least another six months," said the Chief Adviser. Dr Yunus said the Election Commission has been formed with the Chief Election Commissioner and the EC has taken charge. "From now on, the responsibility has been entrusted to them to start the process of forming the future government. They have started their preparations. They have a lot of work to do," he said, highlighting the works before holding the polls. Dr Yunus said the biggest task is to update the voters' list. "This is already a difficult task in nature. Now the task has become even more difficult because the voters did not have the opportunity to participate in the last three elections." Prof Yunus said no one has had the opportunity to verify the voters' list. "We have to make sure that the names of all those who have become eligible to vote in the last 15 years are included in the voters' list. This is a big task," he said. After the student uprising, there is no room for making any mistake as after a long time, many young people will vote for the first time, he said, adding that in the past, they were deprived of that right and joy. "Therefore, their voting in this election will be a memorable event. All arrangements must be made to make this experience smooth," Dr Yunus said.   He said his sincere wish is that the young people who are first-time voters create a tradition by voting in close to 100 percent in this election. He said they must ensure that those whose names were supposed to be on the voters list are duly enlisted. Chief Adviser renews oath of independence on Victory Day "Special attention must be paid to removing fake voters from the list," he added. This time, Dr Yunus said, they want to ensure that expatriate Bangladeshis can vote. "We have heard assurances about this many times in the past. We want to ensure that this is implemented for the first time during the tenure of this government," the CA said. "A reliable system must be made for this. Everything is a time consuming matter," Dr Yunus said. "If we want to further improve the election process and implement the recommendations of the Election Reform Commission, then the Election Commission must be given time according to the breadth and depth of the necessary reforms," he said.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said the Victory Day, to be celebrated on December 16, is not only their source of pride but also oath day. "The oath is to remain united, protect the sovereignty of the country, and uphold the spirit of the Liberation War," he said in a message on the occasion of Victory Day. Bangladesh, India exchange delegations marking Victory Day On this day, Dr Yunus remembered the brave martyrs of the freedom struggle with respect and honoured their sacrifices. "We promise to work together to build a developed, prosperous, and well-governed Bangladesh by the interim government formed through the mass uprising of the students, workers, and people," he said. Dr Yunus said they are determined to further develop and strengthen the country and enjoy the full benefits of freedom. “Today is 16th December, Victory Day. This day is a very glorious and memorable day in Bangladesh’s history," he said. Dhaka University’s programme for Victory Day announced On December 16, 1971, Dr Yunus said Bangladesh gained the taste of freedom and self-identity as a nation through the victory in the War of Independence. "We get our desired freedom in exchange for the blood and sacrifice of millions of martyrs," he said, adding that "I wish Victory Day 2024 a great success.”

Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta has assured Bangladesh's interim government of his efforts to secure ASEAN’s support for the repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar. “And his excellency has assured us as an ASEAN member that he will try his best to make sure that ASEAN supports us in the Rohingya issues,” Dr Yunus said  at a joint press conference at his office on Sunday after a bilateral meeting with Ramos .  “So, we discussed in detail how this can be achieved. How to make the international opinion go towards the repatriation of Rohingyas from Bangladesh back to Myanmar,” he said. Timor-Leste President seeks to boost trade ties with Bangladesh The Chief Adviser said Ramos-Horta will be a strong support for Bangladesh. Dr Yunus said Timor-Leste is set to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) soon.  Earlier, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Timor-Leste President held "fruitful discussions" and shared their ideas to take the relations between the two countries to a new height. They witnessed the signing of two instruments -- MoU on bilateral consultations mechanism and agreement on visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders -- to further strengthen the relations. The two leaders had a tete-a-tete which was followed by a delegation-level meeting. CA Yunus, Timor-Leste President hold fruitful meeting, eye closer ties Earlier in the morning, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain met President of Timor-Leste José Ramos-Horta and discussed issues of mutual interest. He was on Saturday night accorded a red carpet reception on his arrival here on a four-day official visit. The Chief Adviser received President Ramos-Horta at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on his arrival around 10:40pm.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta on Sunday held "fruitful discussions" and shared their ideas to take the relations between the two countries to a new height. They witnessed the signing of two instruments- MoU on bilateral consultations mechanism and agreement on visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders- to further strengthen the relations. The two leaders had a tete-a-tete which was followed by a delegation-level meeting. CA Yunus to hold talks with Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta today to strengthen ties Dr Yunus and Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta appeared in a joint press conference at the Chief Adviser's Office after the bilateral meeting.