What's happened
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus is set to lead Bangladesh's interim government after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid protests. Yunus, appointed by President Shahabuddin, called for calm as he returned from Paris, emphasizing the need for stability and organization in the country.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The South China Morning Post highlights Yunus's appeal for calm and his optimism about returning to Bangladesh, stating, "I’m looking forward to going back home and see what’s happening there." In contrast, Sky News emphasizes the urgency of restoring stability, noting that Yunus's appointment is a response to the protests that led to Hasina's resignation. Al Jazeera reports on the military's role in facilitating this transition, with General Waker-Uz-Zaman expressing confidence in Yunus's ability to guide the country towards democracy. The Japan Times focuses on Yunus's previous legal challenges, which were politically motivated, framing his return as a victory for democratic ideals.
How we got here
The political turmoil in Bangladesh escalated when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India following widespread protests demanding her resignation. The protests were fueled by a quota system for government jobs and subsequent violent clashes, resulting in over 300 deaths.
Common question
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What Does Yunus's Leadership Mean for Bangladesh's Future?
With the recent resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid widespread protests, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has stepped in to lead Bangladesh's interim government. This significant political shift raises many questions about the future of the country, the challenges ahead, and the reactions of its citizens. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this pivotal moment in Bangladesh's history.
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What are the biggest news stories this week?
This week has been packed with significant events that have captured global attention. From major corporate layoffs to political upheaval in Bangladesh, and even personal revelations from public figures, these stories are shaping the current landscape. Below, we explore the key headlines and their implications, along with emerging trends and what to watch for in the coming days.
More on these topics
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Sheikh Hasina, also known by her married name Sheikh Hasina Wazed, is a Bangladeshi politician serving as the 10th Prime Minister of Bangladesh, having held the office since January 2009.
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Muhammad Yunus is a Bangladeshi social entrepreneur, banker, economist, and civil society leader who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for founding the Grameen Bank and pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance.
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Bangladesh, officially the People's Republic of Bangladesh, is a country in South Asia. It is the eighth-most populous country in the world, with a population exceeding 162 million people.
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Paris is the capital and most populous city of France, with an estimated population of 2,150,271 residents as of 2020, in an area of 105 square kilometres.