The High Court has issued a rule questioning why Muhammad Yunus should not be declared a “national reformer”, while also seeking explanations on why a verified list of martyrs from the July uprising – including Abu Sayeed and Mugdho – should not recognised as “National Heroes”.
A HC bench comprising Justice Fahmida Quader and Justice Syed Zahed Mansoor passed the rule on Monday during preliminary hearings of a writ petition filed in February by Dhaka Journalists Union member Imdadul Haque.
The petition sought directives to declare Yunus as national reformer, publish an authentic list of those killed in the July uprising, and recognise them as National Heroes.
The rule impleads the Public Administration Secretary, Defense Secretary, Cabinet Secretary, Law Secretary, Information Secretary, and Finance Secretary as respondents.
Advocate Mohammad Ali Jinnah appeared for the petitioner, while Deputy Attorney General Shafiqur Rahman and Assistant Attorney General Ikramul Kabir represented the state.
Jinnah later told media: “Muhammad Yunus courageously stepped forward to steer the country post-July uprising. Upon assuming power, he pledged to rebuild the nation through reforms – establishing various reform commissions toward that goal.”
“This marks the first comprehensive national reform initiative targeting judiciary, election commission and other sectors, aiming to elevate Bangladesh to developed nation status like Malaysia,” he added.
Jinnah further noted: “Except for fascist party elements, there is universal consensus-based support for Muhammad Yunus. The reform commissions he formed through consultations have already delivered significant changes, which prompted our petition for his official recognition.”