While Hasina and Khaleda have raised concerns over governance and democratic backsliding, the army chief has strongly opposed Yunus’s proposal for a humanitarian corridor into Myanmar’s Rakhine State, citing national security risks.
Hasina slams release of war criminal, warns of extremist threats
In a virtual address, Sheikh Hasina condemned what she called growing judicial leniency toward convicted war criminals and warned of increasing extremism under the current administration. Referring to the recent release of Jamaat-e-Islami leader ATM Azharul Islam, she said:
“War criminals are being freed, and those who fought for our independence are now being persecuted. Is this the Bangladesh we fought for?” Hasina described the present situation as turning the country into “a haven for terrorists.”
Her remarks were widely seen as a criticism of the interim leadership, led by Muhammad Yunus, which has overseen controversial decisions during the transition period.
Khaleda Zia calls for democratic restoration
At a commemorative event marking the death anniversary of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia accused the current regime of weakening democratic institutions.“The democracy and sovereignty for which Ziaur Rahman sacrificed his life are now facing constant obstacles at every step,” she said. Addressing her party supporters in Dhaka’s Ramna area, she added, “On the martyrdom anniversary of Ziaur Rahman, let us pledge to restore democracy.”Khaleda expressed hope that “the people of Bangladesh will soon witness the restoration of democracy,” indicating public dissatisfaction with the Yunus-led administration.
Army chief rejects Rakhine Corridor, warns of sovereignty threat
Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has publicly opposed Yunus’s plan to open a humanitarian corridor from Cox’s Bazar into Myanmar’s conflict-ridden Rakhine State. Calling it a direct threat to national sovereignty, he described the proposed passage as a “bloody corridor.”
The army chief criticised the interim government for not consulting the military before advancing the plan and warned that such decisions could destabilise the region.
Following military objections, the Yunus administration backed down from the corridor proposal, signalling widening cracks between civilian and military leadership.
What is the Rakhine Corridor?
The proposed route is intended to deliver aid, evacuate civilians, and potentially begin the repatriation of Rohingya refugees from Rakhine to Bangladesh. The corridor would be managed by international agencies such as the United Nations and pass through zones controlled by Myanmar’s military and armed groups.
However, the army believes the project could create a foreign-controlled buffer zone near the border and invite external influence in a sensitive area.
Geopolitical complications
The plan also has international implications. China, which has strategic infrastructure investments in Rakhine under its Belt and Road Initiative, may view the Western-backed corridor as a threat. Projects like the Kyaukphyu port and cross-border pipelines provide China with access to the Indian Ocean.
The United States supports the Rakhine Corridor to extend humanitarian aid and reduce China’s influence in the Bay of Bengal. Washington’s backing of Myanmar’s pro-democracy groups adds another layer to the strategic rivalry.
India watching closely
India is monitoring the situation, concerned about growing Chinese influence near its northeastern border. The corridor could affect India’s Act East Policy and its position in the Bay of Bengal. Any instability in the region could have security implications for India’s border states.
Leadership under strain
With simultaneous criticism from Hasina, Khaleda Zia, and General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Muhammad Yunus’s interim leadership is facing intense scrutiny. The opposition from both political camps and the military indicates growing challenges in managing national governance, security, and foreign policy during a politically sensitive period.