Archbishop Bejoy D’Cruze, OMI, of Dhaka voiced cautious optimism about the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus, highlighting its efforts to stabilize Bangladesh following a student-led revolt that ousted former Premier Sheikh Hasina.
In an interview with the Vatican’s Fides News Agency, the Archbishop called for patience and support from the public while underscoring the importance of safeguarding minority rights and the country’s secular values.
“The interim government in power in Bangladesh is doing its best, working against corruption and for transparency. The executive led by Mohammad Yunus is made up of people who appear sincerely committed to the good of society,” Archbishop D’Cruze told Fides News Agency.
He noted the government’s engagement with representatives from the student movement, civil society, political factions, and religious communities, including Christians and Hindus.
The South Asian nation has been in a state of flux since the violent protests between July and August 2024 led to Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.
The former Prime Minister, who fled to India, now faces numerous charges brought by the newly reconstituted International Criminal Court (ICT) of Bangladesh.
D’Cruze explained, “The former Prime Minister had been in government for three terms and had received accusations of political manipulation, corruption and lack of transparency. His government was then harsh towards any political opposition, also limiting freedom of opinion, of conscience and expression.”
Archbishop D’Cruze described his recent meeting with Mohammad Yunus, where he expressed his concerns about minority protections.
“I met Yunus and assured me of his commitment to respecting the rights of all, including minority religious communities such as Hindus and Christians. He listened to us and appears to be a correct and just man,” he shared.
The interim government, which has promised a two-year timeline for crucial reforms, has announced the formation of six commissions tasked with evaluating and reforming the electoral system, police, justice, Anti-corruption Commission, public administration, and the Constitution.
“There are many challenging issues on the agenda and time is needed to take the right steps. I believe that the Bangladeshi population must now have patience and trust. The important thing is that democracy is always protected, that the rights of religious and ethnic minorities are guaranteed, that the secular nature of the state is not abandoned and that the rule of law is always respected and promoted,” Archbishop D’Cruze said.
Despite this optimism, the Archbishop also acknowledged the ongoing challenges the country faces. The ICT has already issued arrest warrants for Sheikh Hasina and 45 other officials from the Awami League, Hasina’s party, as they investigate more than 200 cases involving murder, kidnapping, and other charges tied to the anti-government protests.
“In truth, no one expected such a significant turning point,” D’Cruze stated, reflecting on the violence and its aftermath.
“It was a shock for many, but it must be said that the country needed a change. Now we are trying to build a just and peaceful future. We are in a transition phase of uncertainty, it is true, the protests have not yet completely subsided and there have been some problems, for example for the Hindu communities who have suffered unmotivated attacks,” the prelate said.
Expressing concern over potential threats to religious and ethnic minorities, D’Cruze warned that there is “a fear that radical Islamic groups may take advantage of the moment and make new proselytes.”
He emphasized the importance of unity and vigilance during this transitional period. “As Bangladeshi Catholics, we have confidence and hope in the good work and good will of the Yunus government, which we hope can lead the country to a new historical phase made of stability, justice and prosperity.”