Bangladesh to issue new currency notes without Sheikh Mujeeb’s image

ISLAMABAD: In an apparent attempt to eliminate the traces of ousted Sheikh Hasina’s government, the Bangladesh administration has decided to remove the picture of Sheikh Mujibur Rehman from the country’s currency notes and announced to issue new paper notes.

‘The News’ has come to know through credible diplomatic channels that marking a shift from the current designs that prominently display the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the interim government of Bangladesh has announced a significant redesign of the country’s currency, starting with the Takka 20, Takka 100, Takka 500, and Takka 1,000 denominations.

The new notes will no longer feature the image of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, father of the ousted prime minister of the country.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Ministry of Finance and Bangladesh Bank have confirmed the decision. The sources said that initially, only the four denominations will undergo the redesign, but officials said that changes to all denominations will follow in a phased manner.

A letter from the Ministry of Finance, issued on September 29, instructed the Bangladesh Bank to submit detailed design proposals for the new notes. The Central Bank’s Currency and Design Advisory Committee will play a key role in evaluating and recommending these changes.

“It is requested to send the specific proposal to the Finance Division as soon as possible after accepting the recommendation of the Currency and Design Advisory Committee of the Bangladesh Bank,” the letter read, urging prompt action in finalising the designs.

The decision to remove Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image is seen as a departure from the past practice under the Sheikh Hasina government, which prominently featured its likeness on both sides of several notes and even on coins. Currently, paper notes from Takka 2 to Takka 1,000 bear his picture.