Is Bangladesh's Yunus Visiting the UK Next Week to Meet BNP Acting Chief?

Dhaka, June 6 (NationPress) Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh, is set to embark on his 11th international journey in less than a year, visiting the United Kingdom from June 9-13. According to reliable sources, Yunus, who recently declared that elections are to be held in April 2026, plans to engage in a private political discussion with Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

During a virtual rally on May 28, Tarique Rahman emphasized that historically, caretaker governments in Bangladesh have demonstrated the ability to conduct national elections within a three-month timeframe. He pointed out the delay, stating, "And yet, ten months into its tenure, the interim administration has still not announced an election date. The people of Bangladesh deserve better. We strive for a nation free from authoritarianism, led by a government elected through a fair vote, and accountable to its citizens."

The BNP has firmly stated its desire for national elections by December this year, believing in a "clear victory" without the Awami League. BNP members, including Rahman, are critical of Yunus's gradual approach and his advisors, primarily from the July uprising of 2024. At present, there is limited political or economic value for Yunus in Bangladesh. The BNP insists on an "honest assessment of achievements" during this period, opposing Yunus's tendency for spin.

Additionally, the Bangladesh military has expressed the need for national elections by December 2025, with Gen Waker-uz-Zaman, the Chief of Army Staff, outlining clear expectations for Yunus's administration.

The Bangladeshi community in the UK is predominantly found in Greater London areas like , and Camden. Outside of London, the British Bangladeshi population is significantly represented in large cities such as Birmingham, Manchester, and other urban centers throughout the UK.

Islam serves as a unifying force among young British Bangladeshis who are increasingly questioning their parents' and grandparents' secular nationalism. Many are actively involved in British politics.

The Conservative Friends of Bangladesh held discussions at Westminster on April 28, focusing on Bangladesh's fragile political transition, law and order, the safety of religious minorities, and the need for reform, democracy, and inclusive elections under the interim government.

Lord Jonathan P. Marland, Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise & Investment Council, led the meeting, which included participation from Richard Fuller, Gareth Bacon, and Bob Blackman, who voiced their concerns regarding the situation in Bangladesh.

Participants expressed serious worries regarding minority rights amid the prevailing political instability and fragile economic conditions. They pledged support from Conservative Party leaders to ensure a fair and inclusive election, revive the economy, and protect minority rights.

Earlier, on April 8, Lord Alex Carlile chaired a seminar at the House of Commons on the state of democracy, human rights, governance, and the role of political parties in Bangladesh's current political context.

Organized by Blackman, who is also the President of the Parliamentary Group 'Conservative Friends of Bangladesh', there was a call for "sincere efforts" to ensure the upcoming elections in Bangladesh are fair and inclusive.

John Cammegh, King's Counsel, advised the Bangladeshi interim government to prioritize political, social, and economic democratization instead of pursuing an International Criminal Tribunal against the former government. He cautioned that such tribunals can often become tools for political revenge, which leads to division. He advocated for a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to foster unity and healing in Bangladesh.

Yunus aims to secure international legitimacy, economic and political backing, diplomatic recognition, and influence from Western perspectives.

The Awami League has frequently criticized Yunus, who in turn has retaliated by sidelining the party. This ongoing rivalry has contributed to a noticeable deterioration in democracy and human rights in Bangladesh, with a growing trend among Western nations to overlook Yunus's contentious actions.

During his visit to London, Yunus is expected to receive the King Charles III Harmony Award 2025 and is scheduled for a bilateral meeting with UK PM Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street on June 11.

Key issues on the agenda will include the prevention and repatriation of illicit capital, with Bangladesh seeking the UK government’s support in recovering funds allegedly laundered during the Awami League's governance. Discussions will also cover the UK’s endorsement of reforms and election preparations by Bangladesh’s interim government, backing for the July-August mass movement, and opportunities for investment and export trade.

The British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Sarah Cooke, met Yunus recently at the State Guest House in Dhaka. Their talks addressed various mutual interests, such as trade and investment, aviation cooperation, migration, and the interim government's asset recovery initiatives (the interim government claims that the previous administration facilitated the laundering of approximately $16 billion each year).

Yunus expressed interest in obtaining technical support from the UK, including training from British researchers to enhance Bangladesh's ocean research capabilities.

Attendees included Lutfey Siddiqi, the Chief Adviser’s envoy for international affairs, Lamiya Morshed, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Coordinator, and James Goldman, the Deputy High Commissioner of Britain.