Dhaka, May 23 (V7N) — Zainul Abdin Faruk, senior BNP leader and advisor to the party chairperson, publicly voiced strong support for Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, urging him not to step down as Chief Advisor of the interim government.

Speaking at an open protest rally organized by Invincible Bangladesh at the National Press Club on Friday (May 23) afternoon, Faruk addressed Dr. Yunus directly and emotionally, emphasizing his national and international stature.

“You are not Yunus the person,” Faruk said, “You are Dr. Yunus of the 180 million people of Bangladesh. A conscious citizen who has brought pride to the nation on the world stage. We do not want your resignation.”

Faruk expressed concern over recent media reports that suggested Dr. Yunus had considered resignation, possibly due to internal pressure or growing criticism over the slow pace of political reform and election planning.

“Yesterday I was shocked to read in the newspaper that you told a leader of the National Coordination Platform (NCP) that you are left with no option but to resign. I don’t know how much truth there is in this, but I am deeply upset by it.”

He added that if Dr. Yunus is indeed contemplating resignation, the people deserve to know why.

“Why did I appoint you? What was your mandate? Could you not progress on that path over the last nine months?” Faruk asked, referring to Dr. Yunus’ primary responsibility to oversee the country’s transition to elections following the July-August uprising in 2024.

Faruk also criticized the interim administration for failing to deliver an election roadmap or schedule after nine months in power.

“It’s been nine months, and still no clear roadmap for the elections. No timeline. No schedule in Kader Kanpara. That’s why we’re compelled to demand that your three advisors resign immediately.”

The remarks come amid escalating public pressure on the interim government to accelerate preparations for the national elections, which are expected to be held between December 2025 and June 2026. Political observers believe the recent statements from key BNP figures reflect growing frustration within the opposition about delays in electoral reforms and the transitional process.

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