Sun Dec 21 06:47:59 UTC 2025: News Article Summary:
Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus, claims significant progress in the 15 months since taking power after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina in July 2024. Press Advisor Shafiqul Alam highlighted reforms across government sectors, justice, and accountability, particularly regarding the July 2024 killings. A key initiative is the “July Proclamation,” potentially subject to a referendum alongside upcoming elections. The interim government boasts economic improvements, a declining poverty rate, and a more stable banking sector. Alam dismissed concerns about the elections’ viability, citing ongoing campaigning and military deployment plans. He emphasized the trial of Sheikh Hasina for “mass murder” and repeated calls for her extradition from India. He also addressed concerns about border killings by Indian border guards and emphasized the interim government’s efforts to enhance Bangladesh’s international image through regional engagement, including revived SAARC cooperation and pursuing ASEAN membership.
Rewritten News Article:
Bangladesh Interim Government Claims Progress, Prepares for Elections
Dhaka, Bangladesh – December 21, 2025 – Fifteen months after assuming power following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s government in July 2024, Bangladesh’s interim administration, led by Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus, is touting significant strides in key areas, according to Press Advisor Shafiqul Alam.
In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Alam highlighted reforms across the government, a focus on justice and accountability for the July 2024 killings, and preparations for upcoming elections. A central initiative is the “July Proclamation,” a homegrown document currently under discussion for a potential referendum alongside the general election.
“We have made tremendous improvements on all three fronts,” Alam stated, referring to the government’s mandates. He pointed to ongoing reforms in ease of doing business and judicial independence as key achievements. Economically, the interim government claims a turnaround, with a declining poverty rate and increased foreign exchange reserves.
Addressing concerns about the fragility of the security situation, Alam dismissed reports of increased crime, asserting that statistics remain stable. He emphasized robust election preparations, including the deployment of up to 100,000 military personnel to ensure a free and fair vote. He also pointed to vigorous campaigning already underway across the country.
The trial of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, accused of “mass murder” by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), remains a focal point. Alam reiterated the government’s call for her extradition from India, where she has been residing since her ouster.
Alam also addressed the sensitive issue of border killings by Indian border guards, stating, “We definitely do not want such killings to continue.” He emphasized that alleged criminals should be tried in court and not subjected to extrajudicial killings.
In terms of international relations, Alam highlighted the interim government’s efforts to revive the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and pursue closer ties with regional partners, including Pakistan, China, and Turkiye. He said Bangladesh also hopes to become a sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN.
The upcoming elections are expected to be a watershed moment for Bangladesh, with the interim government promising a free and fair process after years of alleged election rigging. The future political landscape of the nation hinges on the outcome, and the world will be watching closely.
First Piper 