Amid growing speculation and rumours of a coup in Bangladesh following recent political developments and military deployments, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation on the eve of the country's 53rd Independence Day on March 26, 2025. Yunus categorically dismissed the rumours and urged the public to stay vigilant against misinformation and divisive tactics.

Yunus Calls Coup Rumours a ‘Festivity of False Information’

In a nationwide televised address, Yunus warned the people against falling prey to misleading narratives being circulated to destabilize the country. He described the situation as a "festivity of rumours" orchestrated by "the defeated force", an apparent reference to the political forces loyal to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

"The rumours are big instruments of the defeated forces against the July-August (2024) Uprising," Yunus stated, emphasizing that these forces were using misinformation to manipulate public sentiment and create unrest.

‘We Are in a War Situation,’ Says Yunus

Yunus urged the people to resist the spread of rumours through awareness and unity, warning that such misinformation could intensify as Bangladesh’s upcoming elections approach. He cautioned the public to verify the sources of any information encountered on social media or elsewhere before believing it.

"Our overall unity is severely irritating them. They want to break the unity. You will not even realise their innovative techniques. You do not even understand when you became a pawn of their game," Yunus warned, urging vigilance and community solidarity.

Political Tensions Escalate Ahead of Elections

Yunus acknowledged that the political landscape in Bangladesh remains volatile, with tensions expected to escalate ahead of the next elections, for which the date is yet to be announced. He predicted that false information and rumours could become more intense in the coming weeks as different factions attempt to sway public opinion.

Seeking UN Support to Counter Disinformation

In his address, Yunus revealed that his administration had sought United Nations (UN) cooperation to counter the spread of rumours and misinformation. He mentioned that UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who recently visited Bangladesh, assured full support in tackling the challenges posed by disinformation.

"We have sought the cooperation of the United Nations to prevent the spread of rumours and disinformation," Yunus said, adding that the UN's assistance would be crucial in maintaining peace and stability in the country.

Yunus Assumes Office After Student-Led Protests Ousted Hasina

Muhammad Yunus assumed the position of Chief Adviser of the interim government on August 8, 2024, three days after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government, which was toppled in a massive student-led uprising. The movement, known as "Students Against Discrimination," culminated in the overthrow of Hasina’s regime after weeks of protests.

Yunus, who was in France during the protests, flew back to Bangladesh and took charge as the head of the interim administration tasked with overseeing the transition period and preparing for new elections.

Yunus Accuses Hasina Loyalists of Orchestrating Rumours

In his address, Yunus accused loyalists of Sheikh Hasina of attempting to undermine national unity by spreading false information about an alleged coup. "You all know who are behind the phenomenon and why they are spearheading these rumours," Yunus remarked, suggesting that Hasina’s supporters were attempting to manipulate public perception to regain influence.

Yunus to Begin Diplomatic Visit to China

Amid these developments, Yunus is scheduled to embark on a four-day visit to China starting on Wednesday, March 27, 2025. During this visit, he is expected to hold high-level discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping aimed at reorienting bilateral ties following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government.

The visit is seen as an effort to strengthen Bangladesh’s strategic ties with China while balancing the country’s international relations in the aftermath of the political transition.

Strengthening Diplomatic Ties with China

Yunus’s upcoming visit to China is expected to focus on economic cooperation, investment, and infrastructure projects that were previously initiated under Hasina’s regime. However, Yunus aims to redefine Bangladesh’s foreign policy priorities and build a more balanced relationship with global powers.

"We seek to enhance our ties with China while maintaining a balanced foreign policy that serves the best interests of Bangladesh," Yunus had stated in earlier comments on his foreign policy vision.

Challenges Await Yunus Amid Coup Speculations

Despite Yunus’s assurances, the political atmosphere in Bangladesh remains tense, with the specter of a coup looming large due to heightened military presence and political uncertainty. His interim government faces the daunting task of maintaining stability while preparing for credible and transparent elections.

Military Deployment Fuels Speculation

The recent deployment of military personnel in key areas of Dhaka and other cities has fueled speculation about a potential coup, although Yunus maintains that the deployment is purely for ensuring law and order. Military officials have also denied any intention of intervening in the political process.

International Reactions to Bangladesh’s Political Transition

The international community has been closely monitoring developments in Bangladesh. The United States, European Union, and India have expressed cautious optimism about the interim government’s efforts to restore stability and conduct free and fair elections.

Conclusion: Yunus Calls for Unity Amid Rising Tensions

As Bangladesh navigates a delicate political transition, Muhammad Yunus has called upon the nation to reject divisive forces and false information. His appeal for unity and vigilance comes at a critical juncture, with the country poised to face elections amid uncertainty and heightened tensions.

Yunus’s diplomatic outreach to China and the United Nations underscores his government’s commitment to maintaining stability and safeguarding Bangladesh’s democratic future. However, the threat of misinformation and coup rumours looms large, making the road ahead challenging for Yunus and his administration.

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