Details of the Embezzlement Case
A court in Bangladesh granted bail to Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus in a $2.3-million embezzlement case. Yunus, known for pioneering the use of microcredit to help impoverished people, was sentenced to six months in prison in January for violating labor laws. The case involves a workers’ welfare fund of Grameen Telecom, which owns a significant stake in the country’s largest mobile phone company.
Court Proceedings and Defense
Prosecutor Mir Ahmmad Ali Salam highlighted the charges of embezzlement and money laundering, accusing Yunus of diverting funds meant for workers’ welfare to trade union leaders, depriving the workers of their rightful earnings. Defense counsel Abdullah Al Mamun asserted the innocence of Yunus and the other defendants who appeared in court.
Global Support and Political Context
International leaders and Nobel laureates have advocated for Yunus, citing political motivations behind the legal actions. Despite calls for the suspension of proceedings, the government has denied any targeted persecution of Yunus, emphasizing legal due process.
