Bangladesh’s interim government leader, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, sharply criticized the high growth rates under ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, calling them “fake” and blaming the international community for not questioning her alleged corruption. Yunus, 84, took charge in August after Hasina fled to India amidst violent protests, marking a shift in the country’s political landscape.
Hasina, who ruled Bangladesh for 15 years, was praised for revitalizing the country’s economy and its garment industry. However, she has faced accusations of human rights violations, suppressing dissent, and corruption. The Bangladeshi government is investigating Hasina on charges including genocide, corruption, and money laundering, and has requested her extradition from India, which has yet to respond.
In an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Yunus condemned Hasina’s unchecked leadership, claiming the global community failed to hold her accountable. He questioned the legitimacy of her claimed economic growth, asserting it was inflated and not reflective of sustainable development. While Yunus did not provide further details on why he deemed the growth “fake,” he emphasized the need for inclusive economic growth that reduces wealth inequality.
Under Hasina, Bangladesh’s economy grew nearly 8% in 2017/18, a sharp increase from 5% in 2009. The World Bank recognized Bangladesh as one of the fastest-growing economies in 2023. However, Yunus, often referred to as the “banker to the poor” for his work with Grameen Bank, is focused on improving the quality of life for the nation’s poorest citizens, rather than on growth rates alone.
Tensions between Bangladesh and India have worsened since Hasina’s departure, particularly after she took refuge in New Delhi. Yunus called on India to return Hasina to face trial in Bangladesh, criticizing the strained bilateral relationship. He stressed that the bond between Bangladesh and India should be robust, citing their intertwined geography and history.
