US Concerns Over Yunus Case May Impact Foreign Investment in Bangladesh

June 5, 2024 7:42 am

The ongoing legal proceedings against Nobel laureate economist Dr. Muhammad Yunus have prompted concerns from the United States, warning that any misuse of law in his case could deter foreign investment in Bangladesh. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted these concerns during a regular briefing on Tuesday.

Addressing the press, Miller emphasized the potential repercussions of perceived legal irregularities. He stated, “The United States is closely monitoring the developments surrounding Dr. Yunus’ case. We are concerned that the harassment and intimidation directed towards him may represent a misuse of labor laws.”

These comments come after Dr. Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and recipient of the US Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, was seen in a courtroom cage in Bangladesh. Dr. Yunus poignantly remarked, “Today I have reached the peak of the cursed life,” reflecting his distress over the state of democracy, rule of law, and corruption in the country.

The journalist’s query at the briefing underscored a broader issue, linking Yunus’ situation to the US’s previous sanctions against former Bangladeshi army and police chiefs following alleged electoral fraud. The journalist questioned whether the US plans to take further punitive measures to support democracy in Bangladesh.

In response, Miller reiterated the US’s stance on ensuring justice and transparency. “We are concerned that the imaginative misuse of labor and anti-corruption laws will call into question Bangladesh’s rule of law and deter foreign direct investment,” he warned. Miller urged the Bangladeshi government to uphold justice and transparency in Yunus’ trial.

When asked about the possibility of new sanctions, Miller refrained from providing specifics, stating that he would not comment on potential future sanctions.

This situation underscores a critical moment for Bangladesh, where international scrutiny could influence both the country’s legal practices and its economic prospects. The US’s pointed remarks signal a broader concern about governance and legal integrity in Bangladesh, emphasizing the importance of fair legal proceedings in maintaining international confidence and investment.