Bangladesh has requested enhanced security for interim government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus during his visit to New York for the 80th United Nations General Assembly.
The Consulate General of Bangladesh in New York confirmed that it had approached the New York Police Department, the Mayor’s Office and the US Foreign Service, warning of potential “untoward incidents” surrounding the Nobel laureate’s trip. Officials said the appeal was made amid fears of rival political protests.
Yunus to leave Dhaka on late Sunday and is expected to arrive in New York the same evening. He is scheduled to deliver his address to the UN on 26 September, where he will focus on reforms after July’s mass uprising in Bangladesh, commitments to free and fair elections, the Rohingya refugee crisis, climate change, financing for development and South Asia’s role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Political tensions are expected to shadow the CA visit. Political parties including Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami have announced plans to gather outside the airport, Yunus’s hotel and the UN headquarters. Supporters of the ruling Awami League have signalled counter-rallies, raising concerns of confrontation.
Consul General Mohammad Mozammel Haque told local media that authorities had been alerted about the possibility of Awami League protests. He said BNP and Jamaat leaders had assured that their demonstrations would be held separately, but warned that any unauthorised gatherings during official events would be deemed unlawful.
Faiz Ahmad, senior assistant press secretary to the Chief Adviser, said local law enforcement agencies would be responsible for ensuring security. “If any group attempts to create disorder, the US authorities will take action,” he added.
Opposition activists also sought to ease concerns. Masud Rana, a US-based leader of the BNP’s youth wing, said: “Dr Yunus is a globally recognised Nobel Peace Prize winner. We will remain cautious so that no unpleasant incident occurs during his visit.” An Awami League organiser, speaking anonymously, noted that they were awaiting instructions from party leadership on possible protests.
The foreign ministry in Dhaka confirmed that Yunus will be accompanied by senior opposition figures including BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Jamaat leader Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, BNP’s Humayun Kabir and Akhtar Hossain of the National Citizen Party. Analysts said their presence signals emerging political alliances within Bangladesh’s shifting landscape.
The UN has described this year’s General Assembly as a crucial session focusing on peace, development and human rights, with debates expected on artificial intelligence governance, climate resilience and global inequality. Bangladesh is set to present its vision for digital transformation and development planning.
