Yunus Government Officials Allegedly Foreign Lobbyists

Renowned economist Professor Dr Anu Muhammad has asserted that several officials within the recently departed administration of Dr Yunus acted as foreign corporate lobbyists in disguise. Speaking in a recent interview with a leading media outlet, Dr Muhammad expressed serious concerns over the involvement of these individuals in shaping key economic and trade policies.

According to Dr Muhammad, “Within Dr Yunus’s government, there were a number of advisors and special assistants who, in effect, functioned as agents for foreign companies. Their activities and influence were apparent in policy decisions and strategic national projects.”

He singled out Chittagong Port, Bangladesh’s principal maritime gateway, as a matter of particular concern. “Chittagong Port handles approximately 90 per cent of the country’s imports and exports. Handing over control to foreign entities effectively places the nation’s entire international trade network into private foreign hands. While other countries operate multiple ports, allocating even two or three to foreign companies in Bangladesh carries significant national risk,” he explained.

Dr Muhammad also highlighted the New Mooring Container Terminal, which he described as a strategic asset crucial for national capacity building. “Over the past six months, operations under the Bangladesh Navy have demonstrated measurable efficiency gains and reduced waste. Yet, during this period, management was transferred to foreign operators, undermining national capabilities,” he stated.

Key National Trade Infrastructure Overview

Dr Muhammad warned that such transfers could have long-term consequences for Bangladesh’s economic sovereignty and trade security. He stressed the need for policy transparency and adherence to national interest when appointing officials or delegating control of strategic infrastructure. “Officials and advisors must prioritise the country’s interests above any private or foreign corporate agendas,” he added.

His remarks come amid a wider debate over foreign participation in the management of national ports and container terminals. Analysts suggest that the partial privatisation or foreign operation of key logistics hubs, while potentially beneficial for efficiency, raises questions about accountability, national security, and long-term economic resilience.

Dr Muhammad’s commentary has intensified scrutiny over the administration’s decision-making processes, signalling a call for greater oversight and evaluation of foreign involvement in Bangladesh’s critical trade infrastructure.