Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus and 13 Others Indicted on Embezzlement Charges in Bangladesh Court
A special judge’s court in Bangladesh has indicted Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus and 13 others on charges related to an over US$2 million embezzlement case. Yunus, known for pioneering microcredit to assist impoverished individuals, especially women, pleaded not guilty and is currently out on bail. He has denied any involvement in corruption, stating that authorities are unjustly targeting him and his colleagues.
The case revolves around Yunus’ non-profit organization Grameen Telecom, accused of embezzling 250 million takas (about US$2 million) from the worker’s welfare fund. The prosecutor alleges money laundering as well. The trial is set to begin on July 15, with the judge finding sufficient evidence to support the charges.
In a separate legal matter, Yunus had previously been sentenced to six months in prison for violating labor laws, but was released on bail pending further proceedings. His supporters believe he is facing retaliation due to strained relations with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The government, however, denies any political motive behind the legal actions.