Nearly eighteen months have passed since the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus assumed office. With the national parliamentary election held on February 12 marking its departure, the central question in political circles is clear: how successful was the government, and where did it fall short?
From the outset, the government outlined several key agendas: constitutional and institutional reforms, prosecution of crimes against humanity committed during the July mass uprising, restoration of law and order, economic recovery, and the organization of a credible national election.
To advance reforms, the administration formed 11 commissions and later initiated discussions with political parties through a National Consensus Commission. According to the government, consensus was reached on at least 30 issues, and four matters were scheduled for referendum on election day. Amendments to the Representation of the People Order (RPO) and other legal changes were introduced.
Critics, however, described the reform process as selective and partial. Transparency advocates argued that key sectors were excluded and that implementation lacked political will and foresight.
The second major agenda focused on prosecuting crimes committed during the July uprising. In one case, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and a former Home Minister were sentenced to death, with orders for property confiscation. Several other cases remain under trial in special tribunals. The government maintains that this process aims to end the culture of impunity.
Yet controversy persists over mass murder charges, the inclusion of journalists and teachers as defendants, and prolonged detentions without clear explanations. Human rights organizations have also criticized the government's apparent inaction regarding mob violence, vandalism of cultural sites, and attacks on minorities.
Social stability proved another significant challenge. Over the past year and a half, incidents of mob violence, attacks on minorities, and vandalism of shrines and cultural institutions frequently made headlines. The government faced sharp criticism over its perceived inaction during attacks on media offices.
"According to the government, consensus was reached on at least 30
issues, and four matters were scheduled for referendum on election day.
Amendments to the Representation of the People Order (RPO) and other
legal changes were introduced. Critics, however, described the reform
process as selective and partial”
Officials argued that managing post-uprising instability was extremely difficult and claimed the situation could have been far worse without intervention. They also maintained that most attacks on minorities were politically, not religiously, motivated.
Gender equality and women's safety also sparked debate. While the Chief Adviser condemned violence against women as contrary to the vision of a "new Bangladesh," critics questioned whether firm action was taken to curb harassment and attacks.
On the economic front, however, assessments were comparatively positive. Economists noted relative macroeconomic stabilization, an increase in foreign exchange reserves, bank mergers to address financial weaknesses, and efforts to restore discipline in the banking sector. A white paper highlighting past financial irregularities was also published. Still, inflation remained high, averaging around 8.77 percent in 2025, with food prices-especially rice-continuing to strain households.
Politically, the government considers the successful organization of the February 12 election as its greatest achievement. Despite early uncertainty, the election was completed in what officials described as a peaceful and festive environment. Some observers, however, questioned the inclusiveness of the electoral process.
Ultimately, Professor Muhammad Yunus's interim government took office during a complex and transformative period. It achieved structural progress in reform initiatives and election preparations, and brought partial economic stability. However, controversies over social harmony, rule of law, human rights, and freedom of expression have tempered its accomplishments.
Even so, many believe the interim administration, supported by law enforcement agencies and the military, deserves recognition for guiding the nation through a transitional phase and paving the way for the next democratically elected government
The writer is Editor, Climate Journal24.com and General Secretary, Bangladesh Climate Change Journalist Forum
