Is Muhammad Yunus Responsible for 123 Targeted Killings in Bangladesh?
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Synopsis
A shocking report reveals that under Muhammad Yunus' administration, at least 123 Awami League members were killed in targeted attacks, raising serious allegations of crimes against humanity. With the <b>Rights and Risks Analysis Group</b> planning to take these claims to the <b>International Criminal Court</b>, the implications could be profound.
Key Takeaways
- 123 Awami League members reportedly murdered under Yunus' regime.
- At least 41 victims were hacked to death in Taliban-style attacks.
- RRAG plans to approach the ICC with evidence.
- The interim government allegedly provided impunity to perpetrators.
- International scrutiny is increasing as Yunus visits the UK.
New Delhi, June 6 (NationPress) The New Delhi-based rights organization Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG) has reported that at least 123 members of the Awami League were subjected to targeted killings during the administration of Muhammad Yunus, with 41 victims brutally hacked to death in attacks reminiscent of Taliban methods.
According to RRAG Director Suhas Chakma, the organization intends to bring these allegations before the International Criminal Court (ICC), highlighting the systematic murders that transpired under the caretaker government led by Yunus.
The report titled ‘Bangladesh: Organised murder for membership to the Awami League and its affiliate organisations’, released on Friday, reveals that the targeted murders occurred between August 5, 2024, and April 30, 2025. This includes members of affiliated organizations such as Swechasebak League, Chhatra League, Juba League, Matsojibi League, and Krishak League.
Among the victims, 41 Awami League members were horrifically hacked to death, in some instances by throat slitting, while 21 others lost their lives in the custody of the interim government.
Chakma stated, “These murders represent only a fraction of the total incidents, as local media coverage was scant, and many cases went unmonitored. Even vulnerable groups—including children, women, and the mentally ill—were not spared.”
The RRAG report cites several chilling incidents: on December 17, 2024, supporters of Muhammad Yunus reportedly killed Mohammed Masud Rana and 12-year-old Mohd Rian simply for expressing support for the Joy Bangla movement on social media. On December 5, 2024, Arina Begum was brutally murdered while praying, as her son held a significant position in the Chhatra League.
Another horrific case involved Tofazzal, a mentally ill man who was killed by a mob at Dhaka University. The violence continued as former Chhatra League leader Abdullah Al Masud was murdered in 2024 despite having distanced himself from the organization. Additionally, Awami League worker Babar Ali was also murdered in a gruesome slaying.
Chakma pointed out that the hostile political rhetoric from opposition groups has exacerbated the violence against Awami League members. The banning of the Chhatra League and actions against the Awami League justified a climate of impunity for these retaliatory acts.
The report mentions that out of approximately 1,400 individuals reported killed between July 15 and August 5, many were Awami League members. Their families could not testify due to threats of violence. The interim government has also provided immunity to perpetrators by restricting police investigations into the July-August uprisings.
The RRAG emphasizes that crimes against humanity are being perpetrated in Bangladesh by both governmental and non-governmental entities. The targeted killings of Awami League members by the interim government are classified as crimes against humanity. Muhammad Yunus and Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury are held accountable for these atrocities.
Chakma confirmed that a formal complaint will be lodged with the International Criminal Court, equating the war crimes committed under Yunus’ administration with similar incidents of post-election violence in Kenya that were investigated by the ICC.
The targeted killings of political adversaries during Yunus' governance are also being discussed with the UK government, especially as Yunus is set to visit the UK from June 10-13 to receive the Harmony Award 2025 from King Charles III.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to uphold the truth and bring the plight of those affected to light. The allegations against Yunus’ regime are deeply concerning and require thorough investigation. We stand committed to reporting on these violations of human rights.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations are being made against Muhammad Yunus?
Muhammad Yunus is accused of overseeing targeted killings of at least 123 Awami League members during his regime, with allegations of organized murder tactics.
Who is responsible for investigating these claims?
The Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG) plans to approach the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate these allegations.
What are the implications of these targeted killings?
These killings could be classified as crimes against humanity, raising serious questions about governance and accountability in Bangladesh.
How has the interim government responded to these allegations?
The interim government has reportedly provided impunity to perpetrators and restricted police investigations into the violence.
What actions are being taken internationally?
The RRAG is preparing to file a formal complaint with the ICC, drawing parallels to historical cases of post-election violence.
