Feb 17 • 12:59 UTC 🇮🇳 India Aaj Tak (Hindi)

Tariq Rahman becomes Prime Minister of Bangladesh, but did Mohammad Yunus outsmart everyone?

Tariq Rahman has taken the oath as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh amid a power struggle, with Mohammad Yunus emerging as a significant influence in recent political events.

In a surprising turn of events in Bangladesh's political landscape, Tariq Rahman has officially sworn in as Prime Minister, capturing attention that was largely focused on the rivalry between Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina. However, the real mastermind behind the recent political upheaval seems to be Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus, who, despite not holding the Prime Minister's office, wielded considerable influence during this transitional period. The political turmoil began in mid-2024, characterized by an anti-quota movement led by students, which evolved into a broader push for governmental change, leading to unprecedented violence and ultimately forcing Sheikh Hasina to step down.

Over an 18-month period, Yunus took on the role of head of an interim administration, where he made significant policy decisions, including passing laws through presidential ordinances and signing a trade deal with the United States. These actions have indicated a shift in Bangladesh's governance and its approach to international relations. In September 2024, Yunus openly acknowledged that the movement to oust Hasina was 'carefully orchestrated,' suggesting a planned political strategy at play.

The emerging leadership of Tariq Rahman comes at a time when Bangladesh’s political dynamics are uncertain, yet Yunus’ influence raises questions about the interplay between overt political power and behind-the-scenes orchestration. The future trajectory of Bangladesh's democracy and leadership stability hinges on how these narratives unfold in the coming months, especially with elections slated for February 2026.

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