The interim government, led by Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus and formed through a popular student-citizen uprising, marked its 100th day on 15 November.
Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Islam, highlighted the government's progress and achievements during this period in a recent post on his verified Facebook page, elaborating on both accomplishments and ongoing initiatives.
Sheikh Hasina's government was toppled on 5 August amid mass protests, with the interim administration taking charge on 8 August.
Shafiqul Islam outlined key milestones since then, noting the re-establishment of order, the pursuit of justice for victims of the July-August massacres, economic recovery, and extensive reforms.
Restoring order
Despite dire warnings from Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, who claimed Sheikh Hasina’s removal would result in mass deaths, the transition unfolded without significant bloodshed.
Within weeks, the interim government, alongside political parties and the student community, restored stability, despite a temporary absence of police. Efforts to maintain law and order proved largely successful.
Accountability and justice for July-August killings
The interim government has invited a UN-led fact-finding mission to independently investigate the July-August mass killings, with the first report expected next month.
Additionally, the domestic International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is probing these events, with murder charges filed against Sheikh Hasina and her accomplices.
Ensuring international standards in these proceedings remains a challenge to prevent scrutiny, as seen during the 2013-2016 ICT rulings.
Families of the deceased have been promised financial aid of Tk30 lakh, while the injured receive free medical treatment.
A dedicated fund supports the families of the victims.
Economic recovery
Assuming office with the economy on the brink of collapse, the government has made strides within 100 days.
Foreign exchange reserves have been stabilised, with substantial international payments met without tapping into the reserves.
Exports saw a 7% increase in September and over 20% in October, while the banking sector stabilised.
The country’s top economists have been enlisted to spearhead the economic recovery, earning widespread acclaim.
Reform roadmap
Ten reform commissions have been established, with major reports expected by 31 December.
Discussions with political parties will shape consensus-driven reforms before the announcement of election dates.
A search committee is identifying new, credible candidates for the Chief Election Commissioner and election commissioners, and the voter list preparation process will commence following the Election Commission’s formation.
Widespread international support
Dr Yunus's reform efforts have received unprecedented backing from numerous countries.
He has been celebrated at major global summits in New York and Baku.
Multilateral and bilateral development agencies have pledged loans exceeding $8 billion.
Despite some disinformation campaigns, global awareness of the government's efforts remains high.
Zero corruption
The interim administration, including advisers and officials, remains free of corruption allegations.
Crisis management
Managing expectations and diverse demands presented a major challenge.
Various groups protested with sudden intensity, yet the government managed these through dialogue, resorting to minimal force.
Challenges in the garments sector, linked to politically aligned factory owners, were addressed with restraint, preserving export continuity.
Natural disasters and price hikes
The government efficiently handled severe flooding and resultant essential goods price hikes.
Peaceful protests by Ansar members were managed without issue.
A new Rohingya crisis was also deftly handled with minimal public attention.
Foreign policy direction
Dr Yunus has repeatedly called for the revitalisation of SAARC and advocated for Bangladesh’s active pursuit of ASEAN membership.
He emphasises a fair, equitable relationship with India and supports rapid resettlement of Rohingya refugees to third countries.
A new UN-led conference is in the works to address the crisis.
Cultural reawakening
Over the last 100 days, an unprecedented wave of discourse has emerged across society, engaging madrassa students, urban elites, feminists, and conservatives.
Daily seminars and discussions re-examine history with fresh perspectives.
New and seasoned figures alike vie for national relevance.
By February, several impactful books are expected to foster deeper reflection on societal structures.
