The 84-year-old Yunus, renowned for his pioneering work with microloans, was named interim leader a day after Sheikh Hasina fled the country. The protests, which started in early July, were initially driven by university students demanding the abolition of quotas in civil service jobs. However, they quickly evolved into a larger anti-government movement, resulting in violent clashes that have left more than 400 people dead.

Hasina, who has ruled Bangladesh for nearly 15 years, has been a longtime political adversary of Yunus. Despite Yunus' international acclaim, Hasina viewed him as a significant threat, especially after his attempts to enter politics. Yunus is currently on bail, appealing a six-month jail sentence for violating labor laws, which he claims are politically motivated.

The protests reached a peak on Monday, with over 100 people killed in a single day and hundreds of police stations torched. In response, Hasina resigned and fled to India, leading to the swift collapse of her administration. Following her departure, ex-PM Khaleda Zia and activist Ahmad Bin Quasem were released from prison, highlighting the political tensions that have plagued Hasina's tenure.

The decision to appoint Yunus as the interim leader followed discussions between President Mohammed Shahabuddin, military leaders, and student representatives. "When the students who sacrificed so much are requesting me to step in at this difficult juncture, how can I refuse?" Yunus stated. He is expected to return to Dhaka from Paris, where he is undergoing a minor medical procedure.

Yunus' appointment is seen as a move towards stabilizing the country and addressing the grievances of the protesters. His leadership in the interim government is expected to pave the way for inclusive dialogue and potential reforms in Bangladesh's political landscape. (ILKHA)