Yunus Signals Possible Exit Amid Frustration

Amid growing frustration over recent developments, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus is reportedly considering resignation, according to sources close to both the Chief Adviser’s Office and the state guest house Jamuna. During an informal discussion at an advisory council meeting, Yunus expressed his desire to step down and address the nation in a televised speech, citing concerns over mounting criticism of his government's performance.

As speculation swirled online, Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam, Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, and National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam—key figures in the July uprising—met Yunus at Jamuna around 6:30pm. Speaking to BBC Bangla, Nahid confirmed Yunus was contemplating resignation, noting the chief adviser had expressed doubts about continuing under the current pressures.

Yunus reportedly voiced disappointment over the unrelenting protests and political infighting, saying he felt "held hostage" by the unrest. “I cannot work like this if all political parties cannot find common ground,” he was quoted as saying. Nahid urged Yunus not to act hastily and encouraged him to focus on unity and national interest.

NCP senior leader Ariful Islam later told The Daily Star that Nahid had urged the chief adviser to reflect on the goals of the July uprising and national priorities before making a final decision. Political tensions have escalated in recent days, with protests from various parties and increasingly inflammatory rhetoric both online and at rallies.

The BNP has reiterated its demand for elections by December and called for a downsized advisory council, seeking the removal of Mahfuj, Asif, and National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman. The NCP, along with Jamaat-e-Islami, has rejected the current Election Commission, demanding its overhaul and the resignation of several advisers, while calling for reforms and trials of banned Awami League leaders.

Amid these tensions, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman emphasized the need for elections within the year, stating that political stability requires an elected government, not unelected decision-makers.

Following the advisory council meeting at his Tejgaon office yesterday, Yunus held a closed-door session with advisers, questioning the value of his role if he couldn’t deliver a credible election. While some advisers urged him to take time before deciding, sources say he remained resolute upon returning to Jamuna, as social media buzzed with speculation about his future.