Dhaka: Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus was sworn in on Thursday as the chief adviser of Bangladesh's interim government, following a student-led uprising that ended the 15-year rule of Sheikh Hasina. Yunus, who is tasked with restoring peace and preparing the country for new elections, took the oath of office at the presidential palace in Dhaka, witnessed by political leaders, civil society figures, military generals, and diplomats.

In addition to Yunus, more than a dozen advisers were sworn in, including key figures from the Students Against Discrimination group that led the protests, as well as former government officials and prominent civil society members. The formation of this interim Cabinet, comprised mainly of individuals from civil society, was a result of discussions among student leaders, civil society representatives, and the military.

The uprising against Hasina’s government began in July over a controversial quota system for government jobs, but quickly escalated into widespread protests against her increasingly autocratic rule. The violence that ensued led to over 300 deaths, prompting Hasina to resign and flee to India earlier this week.

Yunus, who returned to Bangladesh from Paris on Thursday, emphasized the need to restore order and unity in the country. His immediate focus will be on stabilizing the situation and preparing for upcoming elections, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of weeks of turmoil.