Dhaka: While an interim government under Muhammad Yunus in Bangladesh seems shaky, the United States seems to be reconsidering its handling of the nation’s political geology under a newly reelected Donald Trump.
In a move that has sent ripples through Dhaka’s political circles, the Trump administration has extended an invitation to senior leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), including Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, to attend the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., on 5-6 February 2025.
The development comes just 15 days after Trump’s inauguration, a swift recalibration of US policy towards Bangladesh.
Yunus’s government, which took power following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s administration in August 2024, says the invitation has caused considerable unease within. The closeness of Yunus with the Democratic Party, not the least with ex-President Bill Clinton and the outgoing Biden administration, means he now has an uncertain future.
Those familiar with the matter say the Trump team considers Yunus a Biden–backed leader and is going seeking options to his government. Speculation that the US might push for early elections in Bangladesh has got stronger with the upcoming Washington meeting between BNP leaders and the Trump administration.
Since coming to power, Yunus has constantly put off elections on grounds of reforms. But his government has been criticised for its response to domestic protests and economic problems. Some fear that his administration has been tending to radical elements who are encouraging violence against Hindu minorities and fanning anti-India sentiments for a diversionary purpose.
The change in US policy could have a great bearing on Bangladesh’s ties with India. Tensions between the two neighbours have risen since Yunus has come to power, with both countries expelling each other’s diplomats over border disputes and actions of the Border Security Force.
All eyes are now on the upcoming meeting between the [BNP] envoys in Washington and its possibility to change the course of Bangladesh’s political fate.