The Al Jazeera interview marked one of Yunus’s most comprehensive discussions since assuming the role of chief adviser. In the interview, Yunus addressed Trump’s recent remarks condemning alleged violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh.
Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, Muhammad Yunus, expressed confidence in the stability of US foreign policy, regardless of the presidential transition, as Donald Trump prepares to take office as the 47th President of the United States. Speaking to Al Jazeera, Yunus dismissed concerns about any sudden negative shifts under Trump’s leadership, emphasizing his belief in the continuity of US policy despite changes in administration.
“I think foreign policy of the United States is not something that switches back and forth depending on who is the President,” he said, noting that he holds no personal grievances against Trump or the Republican Party. Yunus clarified that he has friends in both major U.S. political parties but no prior personal interaction with Trump.
Donald Trump, who previously served as president from 2017 to 2021, is set to return to the White House following his inauguration on January 20, 2025, succeeding President Joe Biden.
Responds to Trump’s Bangladesh Comments
In the interview, Yunus addressed Trump’s recent remarks condemning alleged violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh. Trump had previously claimed on social media that such violence was ignored under the Biden administration, declaring, “It would have never happened on my watch.”
Yunus dismissed these comments as “totally baseless propaganda,” attributing them to misinformation originating from India. “The violence during the revolutionary period was not targeted at Hindus or other religious groups but was largely political,” Yunus explained, adding that many affected individuals happened to be supporters of the Awami League.
He acknowledged isolated incidents of violence against minorities but stated they were “completely exaggerated” and rooted in political conflicts rather than religious tensions. Yunus reiterated that his interim government has worked to restore stability and protect all communities in Bangladesh.
Interim Government Reforms and Tenure
The chief adviser also shed light on the interim government’s plans, highlighting its primary objective of preparing for elections. Yunus expressed his intention to hold elections as soon as possible while refraining from contesting them.
“The duration of the interim government will be less than four years,” he noted, though he emphasized that the timeline depends on public and political consensus. Yunus reaffirmed his commitment to state reforms, stating, “It’s all a question of what people want, what the political parties want.”
On the matter of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Yunus said that her extradition would depend on the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings.
The interview marked one of Yunus’s most comprehensive discussions since assuming the role of chief adviser. His tenure has drawn both praise and scrutiny, particularly for his efforts to balance political reforms with maintaining stability in a deeply polarized nation.
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