Bangladesh has released a new series of banknotes that, for the first time in dcades, do not feature the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s founding father and former president.
The redesigned notes were issued on Sunday to mark a departure from previous currency designs. This was the first major overhaul of banknote design following the establishment of the interim government, formed after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her reported flight to India.
According to Arif Hossain Khan spokesperson for Bangladesh’s central bank, the new currency series no longer includes the portrait of any human figure. Instead, the notes showcase natural landscapes, historical landmarks, temples, palaces and various elements of the country’s cultural heritage.
Out of the nine denominations planned, three have been issued so far, with the remaining denominations to be released in phases. Existing banknotes and coins will continue to remain in circulation.
This is not the first time that political developments have influenced the design of Bangladeshi currency. The first notes issued after independence in 1972 featured the map of the country. Later, under the Awami League government, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's portrait was added to the design.
It is pertinent to note that former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was currently living in exile in India. She was facing legal proceedings in Bangladesh on charges of attempting to suppress a rebellion. Despite court orders, she has refused to return, and her political party, the Awami League, was officially banned last month.
