Demands are mounting from civil society organisations, political groups and experts for the publication of a comprehensive white paper on the 18-month tenure of the Dr. Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, citing concerns over governance, judicial reforms, transparency in decision-making and accountability on signing of controversial agreements that affects country's sovereignty.
Transparency Inter-national Bangladesh (TIB), the Ganatantrik Jukta Front and other stakeholders have demanded that a white paper be made public disclosing a detailed account of interim government's actions, agreements and policy decisions during its tenure. They said such a document is essential for ensuring accountability during the democratic transition period.
Noted economist and former professor Anu Muhammad has also called for the publication of a white paper, arguing that several key decisions of the interim government were taken without adequate transparency. He criticised what he described as "secret and rapid agreements" with foreign entities, including a trade agreement signed with the United States in February 2026, which he termed a "colonial bond" that could threaten national interests.
The Ganatantrik Jukta Front, in a statement issued on March 6, reiterated its demand for a white paper and called for a thorough investigation into corruption allegations involving advisers of the interim administration. The alliance said any adviser found guilty of wrongdoing must be brought to justice in the interest of democratic accountability.
The organisation also alleged that misuse of legal provisions led to harassment of innocent people during the tenure, while important reforms were delayed due to attempts to impose decisions unilaterally rather than through political consensus.
Left-leaning political groups and rights activists have separately criticised a trade agreement with the United States, describing it as "disastrous" and harmful to national sovereignty. They have demanded its immediate cancellation, accusing advisers of pursuing policies that undermine national interests.
TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman, speaking at a human chain in Dhaka's Manik Mia Avenue on January 26, said a white paper is necessary to assess how far the interim government met its responsibilities in line with the internationally discussed "three zeros" framework. He said the public has the right to know the extent of progress made in that regard.
Senior journalist Anis Alamgir has also joined the call for a white paper, stressing the need for accountability in light of recent allegations linked to the previous administration. In a Facebook post, he referred to an Anti-Corruption Commission application seeking an inquiry into alleged irregularities in vaccine procurement involving former officials, and said a comprehensive review of the interim government's tenure was necessary.
He added that isolated demands for accountability were not sufficient and stressed the importance of publishing a full white paper on the 18-month period of the Yunus-led administration.
