A year ago, I had the privilege of meeting Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, who was then facing relentless legal harassment under the government of Sheikh Hasina. We spoke about the fundamental role of the media in exposing injustices -- something he deeply believed in. Now, just a year later, he finds himself in a dramatically different position: As the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh’s interim government.
His appointment brings renewed hope for a country in transition. As a global advocate for social justice, economic empowerment, and human dignity, Professor Yunus has long been a symbol of ethical leadership. With him at the helm of the interim government, there is a historic opportunity to break with past injustices and steer Bangladesh towards a fairer, more democratic future.
However, for those who had hoped for immediate change, recent events have been disheartening. A glaring example is the case of journalists Farzana Rupa and Shakil Ahmed. Arrested on August 21, 2024, at Dhaka airport while preparing to board a flight to France -- where they had been invited by Reporters Without Borders -- the couple have been detained without bail ever since, facing wrongful murder charges. Their next bail hearing is set for February 10.
Justice for the July revolution cannot mean more injustice
The accusations against Rupa and Shakil stem from their alleged involvement in the killing of protesters during the July revolution. Yet, at the time of the alleged crime, they were not in the streets of Dhaka but at their office in Baridhara, working for Ekattor TV. There is no evidence connecting them to the violence, no credible testimony against them -- only what appear to be politically motivated charges that serve as a chilling reminder of Bangladesh’s long history of suppressing independent journalism.
If this government truly seeks reform, it cannot wash its hands of responsibility while its justice system continues to target innocent people
The July revolution was a turning point in Bangladesh’s modern history, demonstrating the deep democratic spirit within the Bengali people. Led by students and young activists, it was a movement of courage, demanding democracy and accountability. The people who died fighting for a better Bangladesh deserve justice. But justice cannot be achieved through arbitrary arrests and wrongful convictions. When innocent journalists are imprisoned, it not only destroys lives but also undermines the very principles that the revolution stood for.
Unfortunately, Bangladesh’s new interim government has so far echoed the same dismissive response that was common under Sheikh Hasina: “We have nothing to do with it; the victims filed the cases, and it’s up to the judiciary.” This kind of statement was disappointing then, and it is unacceptable now. If this government truly seeks reform, it cannot wash its hands of responsibility while its justice system continues to target innocent people.
A judiciary in crisis -- A government with a choice
The judiciary in Bangladesh is undergoing long-overdue reforms, but the legal system remains in a dire state. Corruption, political influence, and human rights abuses have plagued the courts for years. This is precisely why the interim government must take an active role in ensuring that politically motivated prosecutions end immediately.
At the very least, one of Rupa and Shakil’s bail applications must be granted so that their minor children are not left without parental care. For nearly six months, they have been denied not only a fair trial but also the basic humanitarian consideration that should be afforded to any defendant.
Professor Yunus has spent his life advocating for justice, human rights, and dignity. Now, in his new role, he has an opportunity to ensure that Bangladesh does not continue the cycle of repression. The international community will be watching closely. The people of Bangladesh -- especially those who risked everything for democracy -- deserve better.
As Bangladesh navigates this fragile transition, it must decide: Will it break free from the injustices of the past, or will it repeat them?
The fate of Farzana Rupa and Shakil Ahmed may provide the answer.
Julia Wesemann is the Director of Growing Together and Co-founder of Co-Creation Lab.
