Bangladeshis Rally Near White House Calling for End to 'Unconstitutional' Yunus Leadership
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Synopsis
On February 14, Bangladeshis protested near the White House, calling for an end to the unconstitutional leadership of Muhammad Yunus. Organizers demanded justice, protection for minorities, and a return to constitutional governance, highlighting ongoing political unrest and violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh.
Key Takeaways
- Protesters demand end to Yunus's rule.
- Concerns over minority rights and safety.
- Accusations of Yunus collaborating with terrorists.
- Political unrest following Hasina's resignation.
- International attention on Bangladesh's internal issues.
Washington, Feb 14 (NationPress) Bangladeshis gathered in protest on Thursday near the White House, urging for an end to the “unconstitutional” leadership of Muhammad Yunus, the interim head of state.
Approximately 150 participants, organized by the Awami League and its affiliated groups, chanted slogans and displayed placards demanding justice and a restoration of constitutional governance.
They also called for protection of minority groups.
This demonstration occurred just before US President Donald Trump was set to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House.
A spokesperson representing the protestors accused Yunus of seizing control with the assistance of “terrorists”, jeopardizing the nation’s security.
He added that this “terrorist group” does not uphold the values of a secular democracy and endangers minority safety.
According to him, Yunus is orchestrating an international “drama” with misleading claims to world leaders, asserting that they aim to reveal the true situation.
He stated, “We seek fairness, justice” and wish to communicate this especially while Trump and Modi are present.
“We want to alleviate fear and ensure justice so that people can exercise their democratic rights,” he expressed.
“Our minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, have faced violence and many have lost their lives,” he continued.
Another spokesperson pointed out, “Sheikh Hasina is still the Prime Minister according to our Constitution.”
Hindus, constituting about eight percent of Bangladesh’s 170 million population, have been significantly affected by the unrest.
The ongoing crisis has raised alarm over religious and ethnic persecution in Bangladesh. Protestors in Washington denounced the rising violence and criticized Yunus for failing to protect minority communities.
In contrast, the Bangladeshi government has remained silent in response to international outcry and calls for intervention. With ongoing tensions, global attention remains focused on the nation’s handling of political and communal unrest.
This protest reflects the persistent political turmoil in Bangladesh following the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The demonstrations also underscored instances of violence against religious minorities in the country. A report by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights indicated that mass violence erupted in mid-2024 when student protests over job quotas led to Hasina's resignation and flight to India. The violence reportedly resulted in targeted assaults on Hindus and other minorities, with mobs destroying homes and places of worship.
