Yunus was born in Kalosi, a small town in South Sulawesi, on 14 July 1942.[1] Upon completing high school, he entered the Indonesian Military Academy. He joined the military as a second lieutenant in 1966[2] and ascended the ranks until he became a lieutenant colonel. He briefly became the commander of the Cianjur military district for several months in 1983. He was reassigned to Central Sulawesi, where he became chief of staff of the province's military area.[3]
Several years into his office as chief of staff, he was voted into office by the local council as the regent of Sidenreng Rappang. He was installed on 28 July 1988, replacing Opu Sidik.[3] During his tenure, Yunus Bandu established a forum known as 'tudang sipulung' (lit. 'sitting together'). This forum served as a platform for agricultural officials, farmers, and elders to discuss agricultural matters.[4][5]
Yunus' term as regent in Sidenreng Rappang ended in 1993. The central government nominated him for the same position in the Luwu Regency. His nomination faced strong opposition from local groups, with demands to reject his candidacy.[6] The government rejected the demands and Yunus was elected as regent.[1] During his term in Luwu, Yunus proposed the construction of an Islamic centre; this plan was not realized till after the end of his term as regent.[7][8]
Also in 1993, the South Sulawesi branch of Golkar held a local conference to elect a new chairman. Yunus, alongside Regent of Enrekang Amin Syam, were the strongest candidates for the post. After Yunus withdrew his candidacy, Amin Syam was elected without any opposition.[9]
Yunus died on 4 September 2023 at the Wahidin Sudirohusodo hospital in Makassar. He was 81.[1]