New Delhi: Demonstrations have erupted in New York against Muhammad Yunus, the interim leader of Bangladesh, as he attends the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. Protesters rallied with chants of Go back, expressing their discontent over Yunuss leadership and recent events in Bangladesh.Allegations of political misconductProtesters have accused Yunus of turning a blind eye to attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. Many held signs declaring, “Sheikh Hasina is our Prime Minister,” a reference to the countrys elected leader who left office following the dissolution of Parliament. Yunus took the oath as head of the interim government on August 8, shortly after Sheikh Hasinas departure.According to reports, demonstrators claim the 84-year-old Nobel laureate has engaged in “dirty politics” to secure his position. Protester Sheikh Jamal Hussain stated, “Muhammad Yunus has seized power in an unconstitutional and illegal manner. Many lives have been lost due to his actions. Our elected Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, has not yet resigned, and we want the United Nations to know that Yunus does not represent the people of Bangladesh.”Voices of the protestersAnother protester, DM Ronald, articulated concerns over the safety of minorities under Yunuss leadership. “We want peace. We believe in a secular democracy. Since seizing power, he has begun to attack Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. Our places of worship are burning mosques and churches are in flames. Our people are not safe in Bangladesh.”Dr Rahman, another demonstrator, emphasized the lack of legitimacy in Yunuss rule, stating, “I am here to oppose an illegal and unelected person who claims to represent 117 million people of Bangladesh. He is not elected he was appointed by students. He does not care for minorities or anyone else. He has illegally seized control of the country.”Upcoming meetings with President BidenAccording to the Dhaka Tribune, Yunus is set to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden during the UNGA. Reports from Bangladeshs Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicate that Yunus has scheduled several high-profile meetings during his visit. He will address the UNGA on September 27, presenting his agenda on behalf of Bangladesh.Meanwhile, on Monday, Bangladeshs Foreign Affairs Advisor Muhammad Tohid Hussain met with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss mutual interests between Bangladesh and India.
