Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus refers to coup rumors as a ‘festival of rumours,’ attributing the misinformation to ‘defeated forces.’ Amid a backdrop of protests and intensified military activity, heightened speculation about a coup arises following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Yunus’s administration has faced criticism while officials deny claims of imminent emergency declarations.

In light of rumors of a potential military coup in Bangladesh, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has characterized the situation as a “festival of rumours,” attributing these claims to “defeated forces” that refer to the former government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Speculations have intensified due to reported high-level army meetings and increased security across the nation.

While addressing the nation prior to Bangladesh’s 53rd Independence Day, Yunus linked the rise in misinformation to the repercussions of the July-August 2024 Uprising, during which Hasina was removed from power. He commented, “The rumours are powerful tools in the hands of the defeated forces against the July-August Uprising.”

In a notable departure from customs, this year’s National Day will not feature a military parade in Dhaka, although celebrations will be held at the district level. Senior Home Ministry Official Nasimul Gani has indicated that the country remains under “wartime mode.”

In recent days, social media has been rife with speculation surrounding a coup, spurred by reports of military meetings and increased army presence in Dhaka. Investigations into these developments hint at Army Chief General Waqar Uz Zaman’s involvement as Yunus faces mounting criticism and protests.

General Zaman has reportedly convened discussions with his senior aides regarding security issues linked to rising extremism. His warnings regarding threats to peace and a deteriorating law-and-order landscape have further fueled assumptions about potential military intervention. Meanwhile, Gani has dismissed emergency declaration rumors as mere “gossip.”

The political scenario has been turbulent since Sheikh Hasina’s government was removed following the student-led protests on August 5, 2024. During Yunus’s administration, he has faced allegations of permitting ultra-right and Islamist factions to sway influence and marginalizing those supporting the pro-Liberation War. Critics claim many Awami League leaders are imprisoned or evading arrests under trials related to war crimes.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the Secretary-General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), accused some groups of trying to rewrite Bangladesh’s history, asserting, “Some people, some parties, some groups are trying to make it seem as if 1971 never happened… trying to erase it from memory.”

As tensions mount, Asaduzzaman Fuad, Secretary of the AB Party, has alleged a conspiracy involving General Zaman and President Mohammed Shahabuddin to establish a new interim government. Fuad claimed that, “You can see the army chief holding certain so-called meetings and indulging in a new conspiracy.”

Rumors regarding Fuad’s possible arrest have amplified concerns about military intervention to control extremist factions, though his party has denied detention reports.

Amid these developments, a video resurfaced featuring General Zaman’s speech delivered last month, in which he warns against escalating political turmoil. He stated, “Later you will say I did not warn you, so I am warning you. If you cannot forget your differences and work together… the country’s and this community’s freedom will go in vain.”

Zaman expressed his desire to step down peacefully, emphasizing a commitment to national welfare: “I have had enough for the last seven to eight months. We want to place the country and people in a good place and return to the barracks.”

In conclusion, the current political situation in Bangladesh is marked by rising speculation of a military coup, fueled by the actions and comments of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Army Chief General Waqar Uz Zaman. As misinformation circulates amidst growing tensions following the July-August 2024 Uprising, both government officials and opposition leaders continue to voice their concerns, encapsulating a nation on edge as it navigates a complex political landscape.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com

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