By Abdul Hannan:
As Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, crosses its six-month milestone, it has unveiled a record of bold reforms, cautious diplomacy, and a targeted focus on reviving the economy. Since assuming power on August 8, 2024, the administration has sought to stabilize governance, uphold the rule of law, and restore investor and public confidence while navigating significant political and structural challenges.
Economy on the Mend: Stabilization and Growth Signals
The interim government’s top priority has been economic recovery. After a period of fiscal instability, it has managed to stabilize foreign exchange reserves, ensuring timely payments for imports and foreign debt, while avoiding reliance on emergency credit.
Export performance has shown strong signs of recovery. Data from the Export Promotion Bureau shows that exports rebounded by 7% in September 2024, followed by over 20% growth in October, a trend attributed to improved port operations, streamlined customs processes, and diplomatic outreach to key trade partners.
The administration also brought in a team of veteran economists and technocrats to restore order in the troubled banking sector, cracking down on non-performing loans and introducing governance reforms in several state-owned banks.
Moreover, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) launched high-profile investigations into financial misconduct by former ministers and officials. Nearly 50 former MPs and ministers have faced inquiries, with frozen accounts and asset seizures underway. A white paper detailing the nation’s financial health is being drafted to provide full public transparency.
The European Investment Bank announced plans to double its funding to Bangladesh, especially for climate-resilient and infrastructure projects—a testament to growing international confidence.
Judicial Shake-Up and Legal Overhauls
The interim period began with a major shift in the judiciary. Following the controversial exit of the former Chief Justice and five senior judges, the government appointed Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed as Chief Justice, alongside a restructured Appellate Division.
An independent Judicial Reform Commission was formed to overhaul legal institutions. Draft amendments to the Cyber Security Act 2023 and the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act 1973 are nearing completion following public and legal stakeholder consultations.
Additionally, a new National Commission on Enforced Disappearances was launched to investigate allegations, further enhancing the interim government’s commitment to justice and human rights.
Administrative Reforms and Anti-Corruption Drive
Within the first month, over 100 senior officials were reshuffled. The government terminated politically motivated contracts and appointments from the previous administration. Efforts were made to depoliticize the bureaucracy and restore neutrality across public institutions.
Public service recruitment rules are being reviewed to emphasize merit-based appointments, transparency, and digital oversight.
Security and Law Enforcement: Balancing Order and Rights
The government responded swiftly to police unrest in September 2024 by approving better working conditions and salaries, prompting a return to duty. Security forces also recovered weapons and equipment looted during earlier political violence.
In February 2025, the launch of Operation Devil Hunt—targeting criminal networks and former regime loyalists—raised both support and criticism. Human rights organizations have called for independent monitoring of arrests and detentions under the operation.
Technology and Connectivity: Starlink Agreement in Progress
In a landmark move, the government is finalizing a commercial agreement with SpaceX’s Starlink to introduce satellite internet across rural Bangladesh. The deal, expected to close by mid-2025, aims to transform digital access in underserved regions and boost remote education, e-commerce, and e-governance.
Political Landscape and Democratic Aspirations
While the BNP has called for general elections by August 2025, a new political movement—the National Citizens’ Party (NCP)—has emerged, led by student activists from the 2024 revolution. The NCP has vowed to rewrite the constitution and build a “Second Republic” based on civic values and electoral reforms.
Challenges Ahead: Price Hikes and Public Pressure
Despite progress, inflation and essential commodity price hikes remain a pressing issue. Daily necessities, particularly food and fuel, have seen sharp increases, drawing criticism from civil society and political opponents.
Extortion, especially in the transport and labor sectors, also continues to challenge the rule of law.
Looking Forward
The next six months will be crucial as the interim government navigates electoral preparations, economic reforms, and public expectations. Whether the current momentum can lead to a democratic transition without backsliding will define the legacy of this administration.
Abdul Hannan is a Media personality and Ex-president, Bangladesh Diploma Medical Association, Pabna district committee.