Ambassador Harun Faces Threats Following Explosive Allegations Against Dr. Yunus

Former Bangladeshi diplomat Mohammad Harun Al-Rashid has been intensely scrutinized after making explosive allegations against Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus. In a series of social media posts, Harun accused Dr. Yunus of orchestrating the overthrow of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s elected government and establishing an oppressive regime. His statements have sparked outrage, leading to threats against him.

Harun, who previously served as Bangladesh’s ambassador to Morocco, has been accused of failing to return to Dhaka after leaving his post, instead seeking refuge in Canada. His recent Facebook post, published on March 14, painted a grim picture of Bangladesh under Dr. Yunus’s leadership, accusing him of seizing power through violent means.

Allegations of a Forced Takeover

In his post, Harun alleged that a coordinated attack on August 5, 2024, led to Sheikh Hasina’s removal, describing it as "one of the darkest chapters" in Bangladesh’s history. He claimed that following this event, Dr. Yunus emerged as the de facto ruler, branding the alleged power shift as a "successful terrorist act that changed the nation overnight."

Harun further accused figures such as Pinaki Bhattacharya and Ilias Hossain of spreading extremist propaganda from abroad, specifically from France and the United States, to destabilize Bangladesh. He claimed these individuals played a role in fomenting unrest, allegedly targeting the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum.

Claims of Persecution and Suppression

The former diplomat also asserted that under Dr. Yunus’s rule, Bangladesh’s secular identity had been systematically dismantled. He accused the new administration of enabling jihadist groups, persecuting minorities, and suppressing women’s rights. According to Harun, Sufi shrines, Hindu temples, and cultural landmarks have been destroyed under Yunus’s leadership, while extremist groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir and Al-Qaeda have gained influence.

Harun further alleged that members of extremist organizations had been appointed to key government positions, while others were allowed to form political parties. He claimed that his dismissal as ambassador to Morocco was orchestrated by pro-Yunus influencers, including YouTuber Zulkarnain Saer Samir, allegedly as retaliation for writing a book on Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib.

Government Response and Rising Tensions

Harun’s allegations have intensified political tensions in Dhaka. Reports suggest that the interim government is preparing disciplinary measures against him for his public criticism and refusal to return to Bangladesh. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to finalize its response by March 14, though the exact nature of the action remains unclear.

Meanwhile, pro-Yunus supporters on social media have condemned Harun’s statements, with some calling for legal action against him. The situation has escalated to the point where Harun has reportedly faced threats, further complicating his status abroad.

A Career in Diplomacy Now in Question

A seasoned diplomat, Harun joined the Foreign Service in 2001 and has held key positions in Rome, Cairo, Mexico City, and Madrid. He later served as Deputy High Commissioner in Canada before he was appointed ambassador to Morocco. His recent statements, however, have placed him at the center of a growing political storm, raising questions about his future within Bangladesh’s diplomatic service.

As tensions mount, the international community is closely watching the unfolding situation, with concerns about its implications for Bangladesh’s political stability and diplomatic affairs.