Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus Resumes Non-Profit Leadership After Interim Government Tenure
Muhammad Yunus, the renowned Nobel Peace Prize winner, has officially returned to his non-profit organisation work after concluding his role as chief adviser to Bangladesh's interim government. Yunus held this pivotal position for nearly 18 months, overseeing the nation during a critical transitional period.
Resignation and Political Context
Yunus submitted his resignation on February 16, just days after the formation of a newly elected government in Bangladesh. This move marked the end of his service in a capacity that began following significant political upheaval. In August 2024, Yunus returned from a self-imposed exile, which coincided with the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina's iron-fisted government. Hasina's regime was toppled in a student-led uprising, leading to her fleeing by helicopter to India.
Warm Welcome at Yunus Centre
According to a post on his official Facebook page, the 85-year-old economist arrived at the Yunus Centre office in Mirpur on Sunday. The post stated, "A warm welcome to Professor Muhammad Yunus as he returned to his former duties on Sunday, following an 18-month hiatus during which he led Bangladesh's Interim Government." Upon his arrival, Yunus was greeted by colleagues who presented him with flowers as a gesture of appreciation and support.
Reviewing Initiatives and Future Plans
Following the welcome, Yunus convened meetings with managing directors and advisers from various Grameen organisations and the Yunus Centre. The discussions focused on reviewing initiatives that had been paused during his government tenure and outlining strategic plans for the upcoming period. This step is crucial for revitalising the non-profit's mission of promoting social business and poverty alleviation.
Personal Transition and Speculation
In addition to his professional return, Yunus is set to resume living at his personal home in Gulshan, Dhaka, by the end of the month. He had been residing at an official government residence provided during his leadership of the interim government. There had been prior speculation that Yunus might be accommodated in a constitutional role, possibly with backing from the incoming administration, but this has not materialised.
New Political Leadership in Bangladesh
The political landscape in Bangladesh continues to evolve, with Tarique Rahman, the 60-year-old chief of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), now leading the South Asian nation of 170 million people. As a scion of one of the country's most powerful political dynasties, Rahman's leadership marks a new chapter in Bangladesh's governance, following the recent transitions.
Yunus's return to non-profit work underscores his enduring commitment to social entrepreneurship and development, even as the nation navigates its political future.
