According to the statement, the party has recently noticed the announcement and promotion of unauthorized committees in several districts claiming to represent the BNP Media Cell.  It also alleged that a number of fake pages, groups, and online communities are operating on various social media platforms using the name of the BNP Media Cell. The press release clarified that no district-level or metropolitan committees have been formed under the BNP Media Cell anywhere in the country apart from its central committee.

It said individuals or groups claiming to be members of approved BNP Media Cell committees have no affiliation with the organization. The BNP Media Cell urged party leaders, activists, supporters, and the general public to remain cautious about misleading information and unauthorized committee lists being circulated online and elsewhere. The statement also warned that those involved in forming or promoting unauthorized committees could face allegations of violating party discipline.

The party had earlier announced its first list of 100 candidates for the posts on May 10, at an emergency press conference held at its central office in Banglamotor, Dhaka. Prior to that, on March 29, NCP had announced mayoral candidates for the upcoming elections to five city corporations, including Dhaka South and Dhaka North.

In his speech marking May 16, Tuhin said the day symbolizes not only the anniversary of an organization, but also the anniversary of “a dream, a struggle, and the journey toward a new political culture.” He stated that National Jubo Shokti emerged from the spirit of the July mass uprising and emphasized that the sacrifices made during the movement must never be forgotten. According to him, more than 1,500 people were martyred and over 30,000 were injured during the protests.

Paying tribute to the martyrs and the injured, he said their sacrifices had entrusted the nation with the responsibility of building a just, humane, and democratic Bangladesh. Addressing the country’s youth, Tuhin described young people as the nation’s greatest strength. However, he claimed that for years the youth had been exploited, their dreams shattered, and their voices suppressed. National Jubo Shokti, he said, stands against that political culture.

“We do not want young people to become political musclemen or followers running behind leaders’ cars,” he said. “Politics should mean service, protection of people’s rights, and building a safe and just Bangladesh.” During the speech, Tuhin also expressed gratitude and respect toward National Jubo Shokti President Tarikul Islam and General Secretary Forhad Sohel. He praised their courageous and visionary leadership, saying the organization is gradually becoming a symbol of hope and trust for young people across Bangladesh.

Referring to the current situation in the country, he said many educated youths remain unemployed, talented individuals are leaving the country, and people are increasingly afraid to speak the truth. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about Bangladesh’s future. “As long as the youth of this country remain awake and conscious, Bangladesh will never lose,” he declared.

Tuhin also spoke about efforts to establish a clean political environment in Dhaka Metropolitan West, free from extortion and illegal occupation, where political competition would instead focus on serving people during times of need. Calling on the younger generation to take active roles in society, he said social media posts alone are not enough and urged youths to stand beside ordinary people in real life.

He concluded his speech by urging everyone to uphold the sacrifices of the July martyrs and work together to build a new Bangladesh founded on truth, courage, justice, and human rights. The speech ended with the slogans: “Long live National Jubo Shokti,” “Long live justice,” and “Long live revolution.”

Sarker asked the officials to ensure strong coordination in conducting the election warning if the “Commission will not take it lightly if it sees even slightest lapses in coordination”. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin later addressed as well the officials at the meeting chaired by EC’s Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed. Commissioners of all eight divisions, eight deputy inspectors general (DIG) and deputy commissioners and police supers of all the 64 districts and the field level EC officials attended the meeting.

According to the EC a total of 226 officials were present at the meeting. “The Election Commission is an independent body, not accountable to anyone. The body is only accountable to the law (and) since you are part of the Election Commission (now), you are also responsible only to the law,” Sarker told the officials.

He told the officials they had no reason be frightened. “(But) if we fail to successfully hold the elections on February 12, 2026, we all will fail. Bangladesh will fail,” Sarker said. He said “except for one incident”, an apparent reference to assassination of candidate Sharif Osman Hadi, all election related activities were underway smoothly at the field level. He urged the field level officials to go out on the field on behalf of the Election Commission and move together.

Collection of nomination papers:

The circular said that following the announcement of the schedule for the 13th JS polls, prospective candidates will collect nomination forms (Form-1) from the Returning Officer (RO) or Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) for direct submission.  These forms and necessary materials have already been sent to Senior District Election Officers and District Election Officers. A separate register must be maintained for distribution of the forms.

Eligible persons under Article 66 of the Constitution and Article 12 of the Representation of the People Order (RPO), 1972, will submit duly filled-in nomination papers along with required documents to the concerned RO or ARO. Nomination papers may be submitted on any day within the stipulated period from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Submission of nomination papers:

According to the EC's schedule, December 29, 2025 has been fixed as the last date for submission of nomination papers.  On that day or any day before, if a candidate, proposer or seconder submits a nomination paper, the RO or ARO shall receive it in accordance with Article 12(3) of the RPO.

At the time of receiving nomination papers, officers will assign serial numbers at the designated place. The RO will prefix the number with "RO-" and the ARO with "ARO-". If a candidate submits more than one nomination paper, the first will carry the full serial number and the others may be marked with brackets as (a), (b) or (1), (2).

Receipt and notice of scrutiny:

At the time of receiving nomination papers, details of each nomination paper must be recorded in the register. Simultaneously, the name of the submitter, date and time of submission must be mentioned in the third part of the nomination paper. In addition, an acknowledgement receipt attached to the fifth part of the nomination paper, mentioning the name and number of the constituency, name of the candidate, date and time of submission of the nomination paper, and the fixed date, time and place of scrutiny, must be handed over immediately to the candidate or proposer or seconder.

Forwarding nomination papers by ARO:

The circular said that the authority to scrutinise nomination papers rests with the RO. Therefore, all nomination papers submitted to the ARO must be forwarded securely to the RO immediately after 5:00 pm on December 29, 2025.

Eligibility of proposer and seconder:

Under the RPO, any voter of the concerned constituency may propose or second a person qualified under Article 66 of the Constitution. However, no person may sign as proposer or seconder on more than one nomination paper. Each nomination paper must include the candidate's consent, a declaration of absence of disqualification, and a statement that the candidate has not submitted nomination papers in more than three constituencies.

Nomination of candidates by political parties:

A political party candidate must submit, along with the nomination paper, a certificate signed by the party president, general secretary or an equivalent office-bearer on the party's official pad. If a political party nominates more than one candidate in a constituency, the name of the final candidate must be communicated in writing to the RO by 5:00 pm on January 20, 2026. The finally nominated candidate will be entitled to the party symbol unless he or she withdraws candidature.  Detailed information regarding allocation of symbols will be issued later through a separate circular.

Security deposit:

At the time of submission of the nomination paper, a candidate must deposit Tk 50,000 as security. The amount may be deposited in cash, bank draft, pay order or treasury challan in favour of the Election Commission. If multiple nomination papers are submitted in the same constituency, a single security deposit will suffice. Certified copies of the challan must be attached with the other nomination papers. Acceptance or payment of any additional amount beyond the prescribed security deposit is strictly prohibited.

The security deposit must be deposited with Bangladesh Bank, any bank, or government treasury or sub-treasury under code number 1090302101443-8113501. Any security money received in cash must be deposited by the RO or ARO to the government exchequer.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party (NCP) have welcomed the announcement of the election schedule. Reacting promptly, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told newsmen at the BNP chairperson's Gulshan office yesterday evening, "Today is a day of joy." "The election schedule announcement by the Election Commission has reassured us. Through this announcement today, it has been proven that the Election Commission, the government and political parties want to hold the election. They want to implement the people's right to vote," he added.

At a briefing at Jamaat's central office in Moghbazar yesterday, party's Assistant Secretary General Ahsanul Mahbub Zubair said Jamaat expects that the Election Commission will fulfill several major responsibilities to ensure a free, fair, and neutral election. National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary welcomed the announcement of the election schedule while speaking at a press conference at NCP's Banglamotor central office on Thursday evening. Welcoming the announcement of the election schedule, the Dhaka University (DU) unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal brought out a procession on Thursday night. 

Following the declaration of the election schedule in the evening, the leaders and activists of Chhatra Dal gathered at the TSC and launched marches through key roads on the campus. In Bogura, the announcement has created much enthusiasm and excitement among the political arena and the commoners as the uncertainty of the elections has been removed. Leaders and workers of all parties were seeing this schedule announcement as a positive step. Immediately after the announcement of the election schedule, enthusiasm was seen among party leaders and workers and the common people in Bogura, while potential candidates of different parties welcomed the polls schedule.

BNP's nominated candidate from Bogura-1, Kazi Rafiqul Islam, said with the announcement of the schedule, the nation has been free from fear that they are going to get a free and fair election. After the announcement, there is a festive atmosphere among various political leaders and activists in Rajshahi. Mizanur Rahman Minu, BNP-nominated candidate from Rajshahi-2, said they welcomed the announcement of this schedule. "We hope that democracy will be well established in the country through a fair and impartial election."

Rajshahi District Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary Golam Murtaza also welcomed the announcement of the election schedule. "We hope that the schedule will create an electoral environment. The people will be able to exercise their right to vote. The government will be able to create this environment," he said. As soon as the schedule was announced, the long-awaited joy was evident on the faces of local leaders, activists, dignitaries and common people. Meherpur District Press Club President Tozammel Azam said there was some tension across the country but after the schedule was announced, it seems that everything has returned to normal. "The announcement of the election schedule now feels like a festival," he said.

Abdur Razzak Master, a senior political figure of Gangni Upazila, said now everyone is preparing with enthusiasm and the election field has come back to life after the announcement. In Naogaon, candidates of all parties and the common people in the district were happy after the announcement of the schedule for the elections. The people of the northern border district are floating in a tide of joy with the news that they will vote beautifully again after a long time. BNP nominated candidate from Naogaon-3 Fazle Huda Babul said people did not vote for 17 long years as the fascist Sheikh Hasina government had kept the election in a museum. 

"That's why we are all happy that the Election Commission announced the election schedule," he added. In Khulna, the schedule announcement has ended the uncertainty of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections. Now the entire nation is waiting for a competitive, fair, impartial, participatory and festive election, the Khulna correspondent adds. Candidates of various political parties, including BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP and Islamic Andolan, are rushing to the doors of voters in their respective areas without any hesitation. And the voters are also looking forward to exercising their right to vote.

Common people, journalists and political activists and voters in Khulna have expressed their hope in their immediate reaction. In Panchagarh, Satkhira, Chadpur, Narail, Chapainawabganj, Jhalakathi, Natore and many other districts, people expressed their joy and came to the streets welcoming it.

The BNP Secretary General also urged party leaders, activists, and the people of the country to earnestly pray to the Almighty Allah for the Chairperson's speedy recovery. Party's Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said, "Madam's treatment is continuing as before in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Evercare Hospital. Please, do not be misled by whatever anyone says on this matter."

"Expert doctors are engaged in Madam's treatment around the clock. What I've been able to learn from them is that her treatment is underway—that's the update. Everyone please pray that Allah returns her to us in good health," he added.  Shayrul Kabir Khan, a member of the media cell, stated that the media will be informed of the latest developments in due time.

The organizations are: Asho Jati Gori (AJAG), Netrakona Social Development Organization (NSDO), Development Organization of the Rural Poor (DORP), Help Center for Human Rights Foundation, Keraniganj Human Resources Development Society, Dipto Mohila Unnayan Sangstha (DMUS), Rural Economic Social Development Organization (RESDO), Rustic, Bachte Shekha, People's Association for Social Advancement (PASA), International-ASF-Legal Aid Foundation, Manab Unnayan Kendra (MUK), Bangladesh Society for the Change and Advocacy Nexus (B-SCAN), Jubo Academy, Shariatpur Development Society (SDS) and Women Entrepreneurs Association of Bangladesh (WEAB).

Earlier, on November 6, the Election Commission issued a separate notification granting registration to 66 local observer organizations.

The letter confirmed that the EC has approved a comprehensive timeline for receiving and processing applications related to voter address changes prior to finalizing the electoral roll ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Polls. Under the schedule, the last date for submitting applications for voter relocation is November 10, while the deadline for disposal of submitted applications (issue, approval, or cancellation) by the Registration Officer is November 17.

The final voter list for the 13th National Parliamentary Elections will be published on November 18, EC Secretariat Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said here recently.

He said that today’s meeting focused on finalising the July National Charter (constitutional amendment) Order as proposed by the National Consensus Commission, organizing a referendum and determining the content of the referendum. Prof Asif Nazrul said the meeting expressed gratitude to the Consensus Commission and all political parties for their relentless efforts in reaching consensus on key reform issues.

He noted that the council observed that despite prolonged discussions in the Consensus Commission, differences emerged among political parties on the question of when the referendum would be held and what would be its content. The law adviser said the meeting expressed concern over the differences emerged among political parties to this end.

In view of these issues, he said, the meeting emphasised the urgent need for a final decision regarding the timeframe and subject matter of the referendum and how to address differing opinions highlighted in the July Charter.  He said the Council of Advisers urged the long-standing allied political parties of the anti-fascist movement to hold discussions and provide unified guidance to the government as early as possible and if possible within the next seven days.

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan and Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam were present at the briefing. 

He said that the number of voters increased by 1,304,880 in the last two months from September 1 to October 31. Out of the total voters, the number of male voters has increased by 1,909,610, he added. He said the final voter list for the 13th national parliament election will be published on November 18. There will be some more changes in the final voter list. Claims and objections can be raised by November 17, he added.

Ahmed said that those who turned 18 on October 31 and those who have registered are included in the voter list. Earlier, the supplementary voter list was published on August 31. The total number of voters in the supplementary voter list was 126,307,504. Of them, 64,100,455 are male voters, 62,205,819 are female voters, and 1,230 are transgender voters.

On that day, the secretary had said that a total of 1,37,642 new voters had been registered during this period. Of them, 94,192 were male, 43,444 were female and six were transgender. The EC secretary said that on March 2 this year, the total number of voters in the country was 123,732,274. Then, the supplementary draft voter list of voters included till June 30 was published on August 10. At that time, a total of 4,571,216 voters were included. Of which 1,870,203 were male, 2,700,762 were female and 251 were transgender voters. And a total of 2,132,590 voters were deducted from this included voter list. 

He made the remarks on the last day of the second phase of dialogue between the Consensus Commission and political parties at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital on Thursday (July 31). Representatives of 30 parties, including BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP), CPB, Islami Andolan, and Gana Sanghati Andolan, participated in the discussion.

"Then, the final draft of the charter of state reform will be sent to the parties, and the much-awaited July Charter will be finalised based on their opinions," he said. The commission vice-chairman said in the initial phase of dialogue with political parties, consensus has been reached on the summaries of the recommendations given by the six reform commissions. Prof Ali Riaz said the background draft of the July Charter has already been shared with the representatives of the political parties and the commission is working on the amendment proposals given by the parties.

He hoped that the unresolved issues could be resolved through mutual talks with the parties. The meeting was also attended by Commission members Justice Emdadul Haque, Dr Badiul Alam Majumder, Dr Md Ayub Mia, Dr Iftekharuzzaman and Safar Raj Hossain and Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Monir Haider.

The workshop was organized by the Patuakhali District Senior Election Office and presided over by Regional Election Officer of Barishal Region Md Faridul Islam. Around 60 officials from election offices of eight upazilas of Patuakhali district and various government departments attended the workshop.

Speaking as the chief guest, Anwarul Islam said, "Amendments have been made to the existing election law (RPO). Now returning officers can postpone polling in their respective constituencies if necessary." He urged all election officials to discharge their duties without fear.

Senior Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat Akhtar Ahmed, Deputy Commissioner of Patuakhali Dr Mohammad Shahid Hossain Chowdhury, Additional Superintendent of Police Apu Saroar and Deputy Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat Mohammad Mustafa Hassan attended the workshop as special guests.

Commission members Justice Md Emdadul Haque, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar and Dr Md Ayub Miah, and Monir Haydar, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser were present. During the event, Ali Riaz read out the amended text of the fifth clause of the charter, which states: "It will ensure justice for those who were victims of disappearances, killed, and tortured during the 16-year democratic struggle against Awami fascism in pre-mass uprising Bangladesh, as well as for all killings committed during the July-August 2024 mass uprising by members of the fascist Awami League and its allied law enforcement agencies."

It reads, "State honors will be conferred to the martyrs and recognize their families, alongside and declaring the injured of July as state heroes. Appropriate assistance will be provided to the injured July warriors, including monthly allowances, proper medical treatment, and rehabilitation. It will also ensure legal indemnity, protection of fundamental rights, and security for the families of martyrs and the injured July warriors." The vice-president said that the Commission would present the amended commitment to the government in a clear and specific manner. He also commented that there was no difference of opinion between the political parties and the Commission on this issue. The "July National Charter 2025" is scheduled to be signed at 4pm today at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in the presence of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.

He said "Many who benefited under Awami League rule are now trying by various means to rehabilitate the party. "However, after more than 1,500 deaths and nearly 30,000 injured, the people of Bangladesh will not allow the guilty party to be rehabilitated. If the struggle must continue, we are ready to do so," he added. Answering questions about two cases related to enforced disappearances that occurred under Awami League rule, the adviser called recent developments a milestone.

He said the International Crimes Tribunal and the Enforced Disappearance Commission have been working on these matters and faced various obstacles over the past year. "Our Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus gave clear instructions that those involved in these heinous acts, responsible for disappearances and failing to return hundreds of people, must be punished. Yesterday, we reached a milestone in that process with the issuance of arrest warrants against them," he said.

Describing the warrants as a victory for the government and the justice system, Asif Mahmud urged that the arrest process and subsequent proceedings be conducted properly. "There must be no effort from any quarter to shelter or protect the offenders," he said. On repatriating fugitives accused of crimes against humanity, he said the government will take all necessary measures. "The government will take appropriate steps, in line with the law and existing prisoner-exchange agreements with other countries, to bring them back," he added.

He said that political parties and alliances have urged the commission to incorporate their views and expert opinions in its decision-making process, and to provide the government with clear and actionable advice. He added that all participants involved in the consultative process will be formally informed once the recommendations are submitted. Ali Riaz made these remarks in his concluding speech yesterday (Wednesday) at the Foreign Service Academy here following a discussion between the National Consensus Commission and political parties on ways to implement the July National Charter, said a press release issued today.

Among others, Commission Members Justice Md Emdadul Haque, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar, and Dr Md Aiyub Mia and Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on the consensus-building process Monir Haidar were present. Professor Ali Riaz said political parties have proposed holding a referendum through a separate ballot on the same day of the national parliamentary election, while some have suggested holding the referendum before the national election.

He added that the commission believes there is a de facto consensus among political parties to empower the 13th Parliament to make fundamental structural amendments to the Constitution within a specified timeframe to implement the July National Charter 2025. The commission's vice-president also mentioned that experts have unanimously provided five key opinions regarding ways to implement the Charter. These include: issuing an order for the implementation of the July National Charter 2025, holding a referendum through that order, and placing separate questions in the referendum on issues of consensus and note of dissent.

Through the elections, the Constitutional Reform Council and the 13th National Parliament will be formed. Subject to the approval of the referendum within the timeframe specified in the Council Order, the reforms related to constitutional matters outlined in the July National Charter will be incorporated into the Constitution. In addition to the signing of the July National Charter 2025, the commission will publish a comprehensive report by October 18-19, said Ali Riaz. Terming the defeat of fascism through national unity as the greatest achievement, he said this unity must be preserved, as there is no alternative to it.

Representatives from 30 political parties, including Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, National Citizen Party (NCP), Gono Odhikar Parishad, Gonosanghati Andolon, Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), Biplobi Workers Party, and Amar Bangladesh (AB) Party, among others, took part in the discussion with the commission yesterday.

The meeting was organized under the initiative of "Saiful Islam Tarek", a long-standing dedicated and talented student leader of Ward No. 94 JCD. Highlighting the history, tradition, and democratic struggles of the organization, he said: “Chhatra Dal has always been at the forefront of the struggle for establishing people’s rights. In the future too, Chhatra Dal will remain the key force in restoring democracy and resisting autocracy. Every activist of the organization must work with honesty, dedication, and courage.”

“Today’s young generation will be tomorrow’s leaders. Therefore, every leader and activist must stay united, inspired by the ideals of Chhatra Dal, and work to ensure the success of every program of the organization.” Local JCD leaders also spoke at the workers’ meeting. They expressed their commitment to further strengthening the organization and said that every activist of Chhatra Dal is the driving force of the movement. For this, there is no alternative to working together to strengthen the organization at both thana and ward levels.

The speakers called for active participation in the upcoming political programs and mass movements and urged all leaders and activists of the organization to remain united. At the end of the program, a special prayer and supplication were offered for the forgiveness of the martyrs, the welfare of the country and the nation, and the future success of Chhatra Dal. With the participation of a large number of leaders and activists, the entire venue became lively, creating a renewed enthusiasm among Chhatra Dal leaders and activists.

Praising the Prof Yunus’ speech, Fakhrul said the Chief Adviser in his speech highlighted both the government’s reform agenda and the unity of the nation. “The Chief Adviser in his speech undoubtedly spoke about the purpose for which their government was formed,” he said. The BNP secretary general said Prof Yunus explained how his government began its work and tried to revive the country's economy and address the longstanding demand for political reforms. Expressing satisfaction at the Chief Adviser’s inclusive approach, he said BNP is very happy as political leaders were included to the entourage of the head of the government to the United Nations for the first time. “I think this is a unique effort and extremely necessary in Bangladesh’s context. That is why we have extended our full cooperation,” Fakhrul added.

Talking to reporters here after joining the UNGA session with Prof Yunus, Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Syeed Abdullah Muhammad Taher lauded the Chief Adviser's speech saying it was "excellent". He said, "What is wonderful or exceptional is that for the first time, stakeholders from the main political parties were accompanying a head of government." Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam termed Prof Yunus's speech a groundbreaking one. Prof Yunus addressed the 80th session of the UNGA today, delivering a powerful call for justice, reform, and renewed international solidarity.

He commended the UN’s historic achievements while stressing the urgent need for reforms to strengthen multilateralism and ensure that developing countries’ voices are heard.  Reflecting on Bangladesh’s transformation since the 2024 July Uprising, Prof Yunus highlighted the decisive role of youth in restoring democracy and inspiring reforms now anchored in the “July Declaration.” He underscored progress toward institutional accountability, preparations for free elections, and comprehensive economic and governance reforms aimed at transparency, stability, and investment. He emphasised Bangladesh’s strong human rights commitments, citing accession to international conventions, cooperation with the UN Human Rights Office, and measures to safeguard against past abuses.

The Chief Adviser paid tribute to Bangladesh’s expatriate workforce, noting that migrant workers continue to send home record levels of remittances, and underlined that their contributions are equally valuable in host countries and at home.  He drew attention of the Member States to the High Level Conference on Rohingya on September 30 next and urged the global community to step up support for the Rohingyas. Prof Yunus strongly condemned the Israeli genocide and called for urgent international action to stop the violence in Gaza. He reaffirmed Bangladesh’s unwavering support for a two-state solution.  The Chief Adviser reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to women’s empowerment, climate action, youth-driven innovation, equitable sharing of new technologies including AI, nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament, reform of international financial system to stop money laundering and wealth siphoning from developing countries, fairer sharing of natural resources among countries, UN peacekeeping, and revitalisation of regional organisations and reform of multilateralism.

He presented his vision of a “three-zero world”: zero carbon, zero net wealth concentration to end poverty, and zero unemployment. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP leader Humayun Kabir, Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Syeed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, Jamaat leader Mohammad Nakibur Rahman, National Citizen Party (NCP) Member Secretary Akhter Hossen and NCP First Senior Joint Member Secretary Dr Tasnim Jara were present at the UNGA session while Prof Yunus was delivering his speech.  Advisers of the Bangladesh interim government were also present. 

Badiul Alam Majumdar said that the lower house will be based on constituencies, while the upper house will follow the proportional representation (PR) system. Both have positive and negative aspects, he noted, saying "We believe this arrangement is necessary." 

The Hunger Project Bangladesh's PFG, Youth Leader, and local leaders of SHUJAN participated in the event. During the session, Badiul Alam Majumdar, who is also SHUJAN Secretary, held detailed discussions with the leaders on election system reforms. Chief Adviser's Special Assistant Monir Haidar was also present.

The press secretary was addressing a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the city following a meeting of the Advisory Council at the Chief Adviser's Office (CAO) in the city's Tejgaon area with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus in the chair. In response to another question, Shafiqul Alam said that this year, at the invitation of the Chief Adviser, leaders of political parties will attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. 

He clarified that this visit is not for any mediation or discussion on Bangladesh's upcoming election, but to participate in an important international event. "They are participating in such a global platform as partners of the government," the press secretary said. Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder and Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad were present at the briefing.

Regarding the extension of the commission's tenure by one month, Ali Riaz said, "Another reason for the extension is that if any office continues for a year, it takes some time to wrap up its activities."  He added, "The government has considered ensuring that we can complete the work within the extended tenure. In this context, we are present here today." Earlier, on Monday, a gazette notification was issued extending the tenure of the National Consensus Commission by another month. 

The notification stated that the tenure of the National Consensus Commission has been extended until October 15, which will be effective immediately. Previously, a seven-member National Consensus Commission was constituted on February 12 under the leadership of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus. The commission was initially mandated to submit its report within six months, with its tenure scheduled to conclude on August 15.  However, due to incomplete proceedings, the government extended the commission's tenure in two phases-- first until September 15, and now further until October 15 --to allow for the completion of its work.

"The world must now take immediate action to take genuine steps enshrined in international law and human morality against Israeli genocide," he said. Tarique Rahman urged world powers to leverage all available political, economic, and diplomatic channels to push for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid into the besieged Gaza Strip. 

Referring to the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (1948), he argued that Israel's actions in Gaza meet the legal definition of genocide - "the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group." He cited a recent report by a United Nations commission, which he said directly attributes responsibility for the humanitarian crisis and mass casualties in Gaza to the Israeli government.

"No more excuses or hiding behind propaganda can continue," he said. "History teaches us many lessons about acting morally and bravely, even when it may not be the easiest path. We cannot stand by when the very existence of Palestinians is at risk." Tarique Rahman also called on Bangladeshis worldwide to raise their voices in solidarity with the Palestinian people and to demand that their national leaders take a firm stance against what he described as "brutal destruction by Israel."

"States have the tools to make a difference. They always do," he said. "This is a moment where global leadership is needed more than ever," he continued. 

Then the BNP acting chairman mentioned the role of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia to restore multiparty democracy in the country. He said, "Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the Proclaimer of Independence, has restored multiparty democracy after the aggressive grip of one-party Baksal rule. The core of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's timeless philosophy and Bangladeshi Nationalism was multiparty democracy." He also praised Begum Khaleda Zia for advancing Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's vision, enduring repeated attacks from autocracies.
 
"Since the independence of Bangladesh, autocracy has repeatedly struck, leading to the banning of political parties and newspapers, the suppression of free expression, voter fraud, and the destruction of democratic institutions. A fearful and authoritarian environment was created by a power-hungry elite aiming to remain in power indefinitely," Tarique Rahman added. 

He also criticized the Awami fascist government for what he described as its obstruction of democracy over the last decade and a half.

Citing this year's theme for International Democracy Day, "Achieving Gender Equality Action by Action," Tarique Rahman underscored that democracy guarantees equal opportunities and dignity for all genders, a fundamental human right. "In a democratic society, a strong environment for protest exists, which prevents the deepening of gender divisions and ensures a steady move towards equal rights."

Recalling the July uprising of students and the public which led to the downfall of a terrible autocracy, he urged everyone to work together to restore democracy in Bangladesh. 

He concluded with the hope of building a Bangladesh that ensures prosperity and self-reliance for future generations, an inclusive and liberal political environment, and social stability and justice.

The day is an UN-designated observance aimed at raising awareness about the essence and strength of democracy among the global community.

"There are differences of opinion among political parties, which is very natural. If there were no differences, there wouldn't be different parties," he said. He reiterated that the elections would be held on time, adding, "There is no possibility of postponing the election." Shafiqul also issued a strong warning against any attempts to derail the electoral process.

"The election will take place in the first half of February, as per the commitment of the interim government. Any ill-attempt to disrupt this process will not succeed," he asserted. Highlighting the significance of the upcoming polls, the Press Secretary described it as a "foundational election" that will shape the country's future political course. "This election will not only determine the future of governance but will also lay the groundwork for subsequent elections and the overall political system of Bangladesh," he said.

The meeting was held on the occasion of inaugurating the distribution of smart national identity cards abroad and encouraging expatriates to participate in the electoral process, according to a PID press release issued today. As the chief guest, CEC Nasir Uddin formally inaugurated the smart card distribution programme and urged expatriates to cast their votes in the polls. He also presented an overview of the country's electoral landscape and the Election Commission's preparations, while elaborating on the voter registration process for Bangladeshis living abroad and the procedures through which they will be able to vote in the forthcoming parliamentary polls.

The expatriate Bangladeshis expressed their gratitude to the Chief Election Commissioner for visiting Canada and engaging in dialogue with them, and also thanked the Consulate for organizing the event. The meeting, conducted by Consul General Md Faruk Hossain, was attended by over a hundred expatriate Bangladeshis. Businessmen, doctors, engineers, academics, journalists, students and other professionals residing in Canada took part in the open discussion and question-answer session with the Chief Election Commissioner.

Expressing optimism, the NCP Convener said DUCSU should serve as a platform for students to realize their aspirations and dreams. He hoped that the newly elected leadership would play an effective role in fostering a democratic, academic, and terror- and fascism-free environment on campus. Extending his good wishes to the candidates who did not win, Nahid Islam said, "I also convey my best wishes to those who participated in this election but could not win. The practice of healthy competition will lay a strong foundation for the leaders of tomorrow." 

He further expressed hope that DUCSU elections would continue regularly and added, "We hope that regular student union elections will soon be held in all universities and colleges, so that the youth of Bangladesh can engage in democratic practices and contribute to national reconstruction."

In the DUCSU election, candidates of the United Student Alliance panel, supported by Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir, secured victory in 23 out of 28 posts, including the positions of Vice President, General Secretary, and Assistant General Secretary.

A notification signed by District Election Officer Md. Aliul Islam said that claims and objections regarding the draft polling center list will be received until September 25, while the final list will be published on October 20. District Election Officer Aliul Islam further assured that the upcoming 13th parliamentary elections will be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.

He made these remarks while exchanging views with members of the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED) at the Election Commission Building in the capital's Agargaon. With Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed in the chair, Election Commissioners Begum Tahmida Ahmad, Md. Anwarul Islam Sarker and Brig Gen Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah (Retd) were present. At the event, RFED President Kazi Emad Uddin (Zebel) presented a number of proposals to amendment the draft Policy Guidelines 2025 for Journalists and Media Professionals Covering Elections.

Abdur Rahmanel Masud said, "We want to make it easier for journalists to work during elections. We will not tolerate any wrongdoing - Insha'Allah. Mistakes may happen, but there will be no room for injustice. Therefore, we seek your (journalists) support." He assured that the proposed amendments to the draft policy will be reviewed carefully and whatever best serves transparency, fairness, fair election and the public interest will be adopted. "We will do what ensures a fair and transparent election," he added.

Election Commissioner Md. Anwarul Islam Sarkar said, "None of us can claim to fully possess the position of trust. I don't claim to be in a position of complete credibility and I don't believe you can either. This crisis of trust is a national challenge." He emphasized the need for collaboration among all stakeholders to restore public confidence. 

"To hold a good election, we must work together. I believe that further discussions, analysis, and experience-sharing - including from the field - will help us make better decisions. The risk of error is reduced when decisions are made collectively," he said. He added, "Since we all share the same goal, I believe these matters can be resolved through dialogue."

Kazi Emad Uddin (Zebel) stressed that all information related to the electoral process - from candidacy to the announcement of results - should remain accessible to journalists.

In a statement issued last night, he said BNP respects the rights of holding all peaceful political programs. BNP does not support any activity that disrupts the practice of democratic political culture and it condemns attacks on political programmes, it said. The BNP secretary general demanded taking all possible steps to ensure Nur's proper treatment and wished him speedy recovery.

The BNP acting chairman said his party strongly condemns the attack on Nurul Haque Nur and the violent incident that took place in Kakrail. He said: "We are in a highly sensitive juncture in our journey towards democratic transition, the first milestone of which is the national election. We collectively have to ensure that such destabilizing incidents do not repeat and that the course of democratic advancement remains unhindered."

Mentioning that all democratic stakeholders, including the BNP and its allies, must exercise restraint and tolerance, he said, "The true spirit of last year's mass uprising must be given due priority." Tarique Rahman stressed the necessity of taking the country out of the mob rule and the prevailing state of unrest. "If we want to move Bangladesh forward, we should remain vigilant against this culture of mob violence, uphold the rule of law, and build a peaceful and stable country." 

"We can succeed as a united nation only by empowering the people through democratic means and ensuring justice, equality, and dignity for all," he continued. The BNP acting chairman called upon the government to conduct a legal investigation into the incident carried out against Nur and wished him early recovery.

In reply to the journalists’ query about the likely polling date, he added, “We have been told by the office of the Chief Adviser of the Interim Government to make arrangements for the election before the upcoming month of Ramadan.” “As far as we understand, Ramadan may begin on February 17, 18, or 19. So, you may calculate accordingly, although the exact date of Ramadan will depend on moon sighting.” The EC’s election roadmap comprised 24 components. According to the roadmap, dialogue with political parties and other stakeholders is scheduled to begin in the last week of September, and it may take one to one and a half months to conclude the talks.

The final voter list for the parliamentary election will be published at the end of November, while the process of political party registration is planned to be completed by the end of September. At least three days before the announcement of the schedule, the National Identity Registration Division will send the constituency-wise verified voter list, with or without photo, to the concerned registration officers in the form of CD or PDF link. In addition, the voter list will be distributed by printing a specified number of copies. The voter list update process will continue throughout the month of November, where only new information and data will be inserted.

According to the roadmap, work on five laws will be completed by September 30: the Representation of the People Order 1972, the Political Parties and Candidates' Code of Conduct for Parliamentary Elections 2025, the amended Election Conduct Rules, the Election Officers (Special Provisions) Act 1991, and the Election Commission Secretariat Act 2009. In addition, the constituency demarcation process is to be concluded by September 30. According to the policy for setting up and managing polling stations, one polling station will be set up for every 3,000 voters on average. In addition, one room will be allocated for every 600 male voters and one room for every 500 female voters. 

The election manual, guidelines and posters, along with related materials, will be printed by September 15. The election training will begin on August 29 and end 45 days before the election. Stating that the registration of political parties will be completed by September 30 and the gazette will be published, the secretary said that the work of delimiting parliamentary constituencies will also be completed by September 30 and a GIS map will be prepared and published using the final voter number by August 31.  The registration of domestic observers will be finalized by October 22 and the registration certificate will be issued by November 15. All activities for granting permits to foreign observers and journalists will also be completed by the same date.

A meeting will be held with the Ministry of Information, ICT Ministry, T&T, BTRC and mobile operators by November 15 to disseminate election information. A central coordination meeting will be held with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Armed Forces Division, IGP, BGB, RAB, Coast Guard, Ansar-VDP, DGFI, NSI and Special Branch for law and order and polling station security activities. The first meeting will be held on September 25 and the second meeting will be held 15 days before the announcement of the schedule. 

An inter-ministerial meeting will be held on October 31 to prepare proposals for activities such as overall preparation for the announcement of the schedule, law and order situation, collection of information related to loan defaulters, sending results from polling stations and appointment of executive magistrates.

Speaking at the event, BNP Chairperson’s Adviser Ismail Zabihullah said that previous governments backed by BNP had been successful to repatriate Rohingyas through diplomatic efforts. But, he said, as the then government under Sheikh Hasina utterly failed to tackle the situation politically and diplomatically in 2017, the thing has come to this stage. Noting that this crisis could not be resolved without Myanmar’s active participation, Zabihullah said, “If the people of Bangladesh vote BNP to power, it will remain committed to resolving the Rohingya crisis with the support of the international community”. 

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Parwar described standing by the Rohingyas as both a humanitarian and Islamic duty. “The Holy Quran commands us to defend the persecuted. Therefore, Jamaat will remain firm in supporting humanitarian assistance, justice and the sustainable solution for the Rohingya crisis. Myanmar authorities, the military junta and responsible officials must be held legally accountable before international court like the ICC and ICJ,” he said. Parwar highlighted the urgency of educational and skill development programmes for Rohingya youth alongside humanitarian aid.

National Citizen Party (NCP) Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain said that the Rohingyas were forcibly displaced.  “Those responsible for the genocide in Arakan must be tried at the international court. The ultimate solution lies in ensuring their dignified and safe return to their homeland,” he remarked. Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party) General Secretary Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad said efforts for Rohingya repatriation must continue, but at the same time, long-term humanitarian, social, and economic programmes are urgently required for the Rohingyas residing in Bangladesh.

Gana Adhikar Parishad General Secretary Rashed Khan and Presidium Member of Islami Andolan Bangladesh Professor Ashraf Ali Akon spoke at the event, among others. High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and National Security Adviser of Bangladesh Khalilur Rahman was present at the session moderated by Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam. All participating political leaders agreed that the Rohingya crisis is not solely Bangladesh’s burden but a regional and international problem. They said the crisis cannot be resolved without coordinated action from the global community. The three day international dialogue will end tomorrow. 

Fakhrul made the remarks while inaugurating a human chain and exhibition to commemorate the victims of enforced disappearances. Mayer Daak (Call of the Mother), a platform of the families of the people who fell victim to enforced disappearance allegedly by government agencies during the rule of the Awami League led government from 2009 to until date in Bangladesh, organized the event at Manik Mia Avenue in the city. 

Fakhrul demanded that full information about the victims and those responsible for their disappearances be made public.  "No matter who the perpetrators are, no matter how powerful they may be, they must be brought to light. Complete information about children who have lost their fathers, sisters who have lost their brothers and mothers who have lost their sons must be shared with everyone," he said.

Accusing Sheikh Hasina, Fakhrul said, "It is now proven that Hasina is responsible for these murders and disappearances. She must be tried in this country and receive the maximum punishment." He urged the victims' families not to lose hope, adding, "None of you should be disheartened. People's movements never fail. The youth and children will witness justice for the wrongs done to their fathers and brothers." Highlighting the need for an elected government to ensure a fair trial, Fakhrul said, "BNP firmly seeks an election. We want an election to ensure and expedite justice for these victims."

According to BNP media cell member Shairul Kabir Khan, the discussion focused on the current political situation in Bangladesh, the upcoming national elections and the democratic process. No official statement was issued by either BNP or IRI regarding the detailed outcomes of the meeting.  However, Dr. Abdul Moin Khan said that the situation in Bangladesh after the mass uprising, reform activities and parliamentary elections were discussed in detail.

According to article 8 (1) and (2) of the Representation of the People Order, 1972, the list of polling centres for a national parliamentary election must be published in the gazette’s supplementary issue 25 days in advance for preservation and finalization. The letter said, on the occasion of the 13th national election, the EC directed to prepare the final list by receiving claims or objections regarding the draft list, and resolve them according to the guidelines. The deadline for submitting objections or claims regarding the draft is September 25, and their settlement will be completed by October 12, while the final list of polling centres will be published on October 20.

The EC added that, following the polling centre guidelines, it had issued instructions to determine polling centres and polling stations for the election. The letter also directed that, following the schedule and guidelines, all necessary actions should be taken and the numerical data of draft and possible final polling centres (including soft copies) should be sent to the Election Support–1 branch via the respective regional election officer within the prescribed dates.

He said the condition of the BNP Secretary General is now stable, but he remains under close observation by doctors. Zahid added that Mirza Fakhrul is receiving treatment under cardiologist Professor Mominuzzaman.

Earlier, on Tuesday evening, Fakhrul returned to Dhaka from Bangkok after his follow-up eye treatment. Upon arriving in Dhaka, he went straight to his Gulshan residence before attending a meeting of the BNP's National Standing Committee at the party chairperson's office. Soon after returning home, Fakhrul began feeling unwell and was quickly taken to United Hospital.

The Secretary General said BNP believes that the government and the Election Commission will take all measures to make the election fair, free, impartial and acceptable to all. He urged all political parties and the people to make this election successful, institutionalize democracy and form an effective national parliament. Mirza Fakhrul further said that BNP is praying for eternal peace of the departed souls of the martyrs of July Uprising and wishing early recovery of injured. He urged the government to take measures for the full compensation and better treatment of the families of the martyrs. He said BNP expresses its sincere thanks and gratitude to Tarique Rahman for successfully leading the democratic movement for eight long years. The Secretary General said, "Let us build a prosperous Bangladesh dreamt by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the democratic Bangladesh of the lifelong struggle of the national leader Begum Khaleda Zia, and the modern, humane, democratic Bangladesh of the young leader Tarique Rahman. Let us fulfill the hopes and aspirations of the people."

The committee has been tasked with reviewing the proposed boundary adjustments and ensuring the party's stance is reflected in the delimitation process. The move comes amid ongoing discussions about constituency reconfiguration ahead of the next general election.

He noted the sacrifices made by JCD activists across the country, saying, “Students have shed blood, endured torture, and repeatedly faced imprisonment”.  “Today is both a day of pride and pain. Around this time last year, we lost many of our comrades,” he added. Fakhrul warned of continued threats from “fascist Hasina,” alleging that she has sought refuge in neighboring India and is issuing threats of aggression against Bangladesh. “They are also trying to destabilize the country from there,” he added. He mentioned that a dialogue had been held between Chief Adviser Dr. Mohammed Yunus and BNP’s top leader Tarique Rahman regarding holding national elections in February next.  “The country is waiting to welcome Tarique Rahman’s return. We want nothing more than to see him lead the dream of a ‘prosperous Bangladesh’ envisioned by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia,” Fakhrul said.

JCD President Rakibul Islam Rakib presided over the rally and General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir conducted it.  Speaking at the programme, JCD president Rakibul Islam Rakib said, “The leaders and activities of JCD did much struggle during the movement. Our leaders and activities were at the frontline during the movement. We do not demand any credit for that but we will not allow anyone distort the history. We will resist them with our full force.”“Again, if anyone dares to rehabilitate Chhatra League, Chhatra Dal will uproot that poison,” the   JCD leader said. He also noted that JCD will take part in university union elections when the justice of the July victims will be ensured through bringing the attackers to book.

“We all will take part in student union elections, including those of DUCSU and JUCSU. However, prior to any electoral participation, university administrations must ensure transparency by releasing the full list of those accused in the July attacks,” he said. BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman joined the rally virtually as the chief guest. Former JCD leaders and senior BNP figures also addressed the gathering.

He thanked Dr. Ali Riaz and his team for their tireless efforts, stating, "Many criticize us saying that we don't want reform. But the idea of reform is ours. We initiated reform. Before 1975, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the mastermind of fascism, buried democracy and established the one-party BaKSAL rule. Who did bring back multi-party democracy from that BaKSAL? Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman." He concluded by saying, "These reforms are ours. Therefore, we do not fear reform; we welcome it. We are thankful that we (political parties) have agreed in at least 12 areas."

Candidates may withdraw their candidacy until 1:00 PM on August 25, after which the final list of contestants will be published on August 26. Voting will be conducted on September 9, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Vote counting and result announcements will follow on the same day. Professor Shamim Reza conducted the press conference while other returning officers of the DUCSU election commission were present.

"The issue of whether or not a national government will be formed is (also) an internal matter of Bangladesh," he added. Reaffirming Beijing's stance on non-interference, Yao said, "China supports the interim government of Bangladesh in its governance and backs the efforts of Bangladesh to hold the general election smoothly and successfully and to pursue a development path that suits its national conditions." Asked whether China would assist in investigating the recent aircraft crash at Milestone School and College in Dhaka's Uttara, the ambassador expressed deep sorrow over the incident.  "China is deeply saddened by this incident. If the Bangladesh government seeks assistance, China is ready to help," he said. About trilateral relations among Bangladesh, China and Pakistan, Ambassador Yao referred to the successful China-Bangladesh-Pakistan trilateral foreign secretary-level meeting held in Kunming and said during the meeting, the three countries have come into consensus to enhance regional cooperation in 12 specific sectors. "It is quite natural. China maintains relations with many countries. China looks forward to advance the making joint efforts with Bangladesh and Pakistan to solidly trilateral cooperation and achieve tangible results," said the envoy.

The ambassador reaffirmed China's unwavering commitment to advancing its strategic partnership with Bangladesh, vowing continued support for the country's development, sovereignty and multilateral engagement.  "Over the past year, both China and Bangladesh are confronted with historic opportunities and significant changes in external environments. However, the defining features of our bilateral relationship, mutual respect and equality, remain unchanged," Yao told journalists. The Chinese envoy highlighted that political mutual trust, the cornerstone of bilateral ties, is being further consolidated, citing the recent visit of Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus to China and his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. "The two leaders reached a number of important understandings and consensus, providing strategic guidance for the long-term development of bilateral relations," he said. Ambassador Yao also mentioned meetings between Member of the CPC Political Bureau and Foreign Minister Wang Yi with Bangladesh's Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, reiterating mutual support on core interests and enhanced cooperation in regional and multilateral platforms.

 "As stated by Hon'ble Foreign Adviser, developing friendly cooperation with China is a consensus among the Bangladeshi people," he noted. On the economic front, Yao Wen pointed to deepening integration of development strategies, including China's zero-tariff treatment on all taxable items from Bangladesh until 2028.  He said Chinese investment in Bangladesh has surged 3.7 times in the first quarter of 2025 alone. "China has become the largest source of FDI in Bangladesh since the interim government took office," he added. He also announced that China would continue expanding imports from Bangladesh, citing the recent entry of Bangladeshi mangoes into the Chinese market as a symbol of deepening economic ties. Addressing people-to-people contacts, Yao highlighted the yearlong celebrations marking 50 years of bilateral relations, including a historic drone show in Dhaka, medical cooperation, media visits and expanded education opportunities. "At present, there are 68 flights operating weekly, which transport more than 13,000 passengers. Around 15,000 Bangladeshi students are receiving higher education in China," he informed.

On multilateral cooperation, the ambassador stressed close coordination between the two nations under global platforms like the United Nations, commending Bangladesh's role in peacekeeping and sustainable development goals. The Chinese envoy strongly criticized unilateral trade measures and protectionist policies, particularly targeting the U.S. stance toward developing nations. "We support Bangladesh in upholding WTO rules and the multilateral trading system. China stands ready to strengthen solidarity and coordination with Bangladesh to jointly resist unilateral bullying and defend global fairness and justice," said the ambassador. The talk was presided over by DCAB President AKM Moinuddin with General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun delivering the welcome remarks.

Fakhrul said, "The entire nation took to the streets during the 2024 July Uprising. A total of 79 Jubo Dal and 142 Chhatra Dal members were martyred. Their sacrifices must be recognized. White must be called white, and black must be called black." He emphasized that the uprising was not limited to political parties or organizations. 

Children, youth, and the elderly all participated in the movement. The ouster of the autocrat Sheikh Hasina government was made possible by the people's united efforts, he added. Fakhrul, however, reiterated the BNP's support for reforms, but noted a lack of progress. 

He also warned of potential economic challenges, noting, “US President Donald Trump’s tariffs could pose a significant threat.” He stressed that political parties should always play a positive role in national development and public interest.

The delegation spoke to Towkir's widow Aksha Ahammed Nijhum, his father-in-law, and other family members, offering words of comfort in their time of profound grief. BNP vice-chairman Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Altaf Hossain Chowdhury, Major General (Retd) Fazle Elahi Akbar, and Brigadier General (Retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam were also present during the visit. Earlier on July 21, a Bangladesh Air Force FT-7BGI fighter jet crashed into a two-storey building of Milestone School and College at Uttara minutes after takeoff around 1pm due to a reported mechanical failure.

The Detective Branch (DB) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) arrested Khairul Haque, also the former Chairman of the Law Commission, this morning. He served as the Chief Justice from October 1, 2010, to May 17, 2011. The Appellate Division bench, led by him, delivered a verdict on May 10, 2011, nullifying the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution, rendering the caretaker government system illegal. 

The BNP acting chairman stressed the need for mobilizing all the energies towards finding our missing loved ones, properly listing the deceased, ensuring the best possible treatment for the injured, and allowing the authorities to conduct an impartial and effective investigation to determine the root cause of the plane crash. "Our heartfelt sympathies are with the innocent death victims and their bereaved families," he said. 

According to a Dhaka based Bangla daily- Prothom Alo, a total of 1,200 people including leaders and activists of BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami were arrested by police and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) until July 23 morning while the total number of arrests nationwide exceeded 2,000 since July 17. Of the arrestees, 516 were detained from different parts of the capital in six hours between 12 midnight of July 22 and 6 am on July 23. Besides, a total of 164 cases had been filed across the country over incidents of arson attacks, vandalism, and clashes. Among these, 71 cases were lodged under the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), 14 in Chattogram, and 79 in other districts. However, according to a leading English daily- The Daily Star- at least 1,427 people were arrested on July 22 across the country. Of them, 692 people were arrested from the capital alone. Besides, the DMP conducted block raids to arrest the demonstrators.

Besides, six more people, who were injured during the movement in previous days, died on July 22, the Daily Star reported. Of them four died at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) and two at National Institute of Neuro Sciences and Hospital. According to another English daily- The New Age- the DMCH handed over 70 bodies of deceased to their families between July 19 and 22 while the total death toll stood at least 155. After nearly a week of violence and chaos, no incident of violence or clash was reported in the capital on the third consecutive day of the nationwide curfew while a huge number of army, BGB, police and RAB personnel were deployed across the city. Armored military vehicles were stationed at key points, and police and RAB helicopters hovered in the sky. Despite the presence of a huge number of law enforcers, several hundred protesters blocked roads in Mohakhali for a short period until they were dispersed by law enforcers.

As the curfew was relaxed for three hours on July 22 between 2pm and 5pm, people were seen moving across the city to perform their emergency tasks. Though there was no violence but the situation was far from normal as the people were in fear of getting arrested since law enforcers were accused of arresting people indiscriminately. On the day, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman visited different spots in the city including Jatrabari, which came under control after five days since the student-people made a stiff resistance on July 17. After visiting the spots, the army chief said normalcy would return across the country soon with the help of all as the situation was improving. The then Police Inspector General (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, RAB Director General Md Harun-Ar-Rashid and DMP Commissioner Habibur Rahman also visited the Jatrabari area. Speaking to journalists there, the IGP said, "Everyone involved in criminal activity will be held accountable."

That day, the then home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said that the curfew would remain imposed for further stability while it would be relaxed between 1pm and 5pm. The government would extend the curfew-free period based on improvement of the situation, he added. The government also extended the general holiday by one more day on July 23 through an executive order while internet services had remained suspended nationwide for the fifth consecutive day. On July 22 evening, the then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina signed the summary placed by the Ministry of Public Administration over issuing a circular reforming the quota in government jobs. Earlier on the day, she held a meeting with business leaders at her official residence Ganabhaban where she squarely blamed the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Chhatra Shibir for the violent attacks and vandalism during the movement and warned of taking "stronger action" against them.

Besides, the University Teachers' Network (UTN) on July 22 issued a statement asking the government to withdraw curfew and resume internet services to end the public sufferings. The platform also called for immediate stopping of mindless killings and tracing those who went missing since the movement. 

He said that the proposal has been discussed in detail about the method of appointing the chief advisor of the caretaker government and the parties have agreed on most of the issues of this proposal. The commission will review the language and detailed aspects of this draft proposal and take a decision on this issue on Tuesday in view of the political parties’ opinions tomorrow, he added. He expressed optimism about finalizing the structure and framework of the system soon, stating, “We believe it is achievable. Our target is to prepare the 'July Charter' by July 31. We aim to finalize the national charter within this month, and parties share this goal.”

Expressing deep respect and sympathy to the family members of the injured and martyred in the July Uprising who formed a human chain in front of the academy in the morning with a 3-point demand, Professor Ali Riaz said, “We express our sincere solidarity with this human chain programme. The consensus commission started working on preparing a national charter since February 15.” Through the first and second phases of discussion with political parties, he said consensus has already been achieved on several key issues, a few matters have remained unresolved, which will be addressed through continued dialogue.

Commission members Justice Emdadul Haque, Dr Badiul Alam Majumder, Dr Md Ayub Mia, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Safar Raj Hossain, and Monir Haider, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, among others, were present. Representatives from 30 political parties took part in today's session, including Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, National Citizens' Party (NCP), Gono Odhikar Parishad, Gana Sanghati, Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), Biplobi Workers Party, and Amar Bangladesh (AB) Party.

“There is sufficient reason to believe that the Mitford killing is being used as part of a political conspiracy to destabilise the country,” he added. The incident, which occurred in broad daylight in front of many people and in close proximity to law enforcement agencies, has sparked serious public concern due to the apparent lack of intervention.

In his opening remarks, Prof Ali Riaz said, “As you belong to political parties, you will have specific position on all issues; it is normal. However, I request you to stand at a middle position. If you can get representation from the people later, you will be able to change it. This will depend on the mandate of the people, but the commission believes it is better to come to a consensus.” He said the commission is considering the statements of political leaders seriously and it wants to reach a consensus. “We have to come to a conclusion. If you consider this, it will be possible for us to reach a consensus,” he added. The commission's vice-chairman said, “You should be willing to move forward, even if it means adjusting your position. Otherwise, we’ll remain stuck in the same place we’ve always been."  Representatives of 30 political parties, including Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP), Gono Odhikar Parishad, Gana Sanghati, Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), Biplobi Workers Party, Amar Bangladesh (AB) Party, are participating in today's discussion.

Earlier, in its meetings, the commission discussed various issues with the political parties, including the tenure of the prime minister, the presidential election system, the principles of state governance and formation of independent committees to demark the boundaries of parliamentary seats.

The agenda includes the Representation of the People Order, 1972 (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025; the Election Commission Secretariat (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025; the Election Officer (Special Provision) Act, 1991 (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025; affidavits provided by candidates along with nomination papers; re-delegation of administrative and financial powers to officials of the Election Commission Secretariat; and miscellaneous .

Consensus commission vice-president Professor Ali Riaz along with commission members Dr Badiul Alam Majumder, Justice M Emdadul Huq, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Safar Raj Hossain, Dr M Aiyub Mia and special assistant to the Chief Adviser Manir Haider were also present at the time.

The veteran BNP leader said various new proposals are emerging, which the people would welcome if they serve the people's interests. He also cautioned against bringing significant changes on the matter of public interest without involving people. He reiterated his party's stance on elections saying those who want to delay elections they are not pro-democracy force and are not supporters of July-August uprising. The BNP secretary general urged everyone to contribute to nation-building work being above party interests. Regarding the July Proclamation, he said, "We have already given our opinion on the July Proclamation. There has been no further discussion on this matter since then. However, the BNP is ready for discussion."

Shafiqul said it is important to work in this area, then a trust will be created in journalism in Bangladesh. “We will be able to start our journey anew,” said the press secretary. He added, “Journalist may have a political ideology, but the question is that whether he is giving disinformation or not”. He said journalists in Bangladesh were harassed by the government during the previous government's tenure. In this connection, he said the interim government is trying to get out of this for ensuring objective journalism. Stating that a way out is being found, the press secretary said that in the last 11 months, the interim government has tried to create an effective space for free media so that everyone can do journalism freely.  He referred that the Digital Security Act has already been repealed and a new act has been made while steps have been taken so that no agency can intimidate the media. “Currently the media is independent and the government is not interfering in it in the slightest”.

Alleging that some are using the media platform to spread falsehood, Shafiqul Alam said it is the job of the media to hold the government accountable. “We want our every work to be criticized. But if those who make falsehood are given the opportunity to use the media platform, they are getting a place to spread disinformation,” he said. At the meeting, this organization of journalists demanded the formation of a separate commission for the broadcast media, minimum educational qualifications for journalists and a separate salary structure. 

"We have called upon China to play a greater and more effective role in the safe, voluntary and dignified return of Rohingya citizens from Myanmar's Rakhine State," said Fakhrul. "In the discussions, they (China) have said that they are working on this issue with great interest and sincerity. They are trying to convince the Myanmar government to start this return process very soon," he said. On June 22, at the invitation of the Communist Party of China, a 9-member high-level delegation of the party led by the BNP Secretary General visited China. During the visit, the BNP delegation met with the Chinese Communist Party (CPC) in Beijing at the ‘Great Hall of the People’ and with Li Hongsong, Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China and Vice-Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, and Sun Haiyan, Vice-Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee.

The BNP Secretary General also met with Sung Weidong, Vice-Minister of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The BNP delegation visited BYD, the electric vehicle manufacturer, Hi-Tech Technology Park, Jiangtong University in Jiangxi Province, the capital of Xi’an Province, held bilateral meetings with the Communist Party of China in Xi’an Province, and visited a model village in Xi’an City. BNP believes in one-China policy: Fakhrul said BNP believes in one-China policy. “We have never deviated from one-China policy. A Taiwanese trade center was opened here (in Dhaka) for a few days. Then it was removed. We believe in one-China policy. We have told you this repeatedly.” “China is interested enough that we maintain good relations with our neighbors,” he mentioned.

Noting that China's positive view on the Teesta project, he said, "We have discussed the Teesta project and explained our needs. China has responded positively to it. They are working on it. We have told them that if they make a proposal, we will definitely look at it positively if we ever come to power in the future." In response to a question on the China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Fakhrul said, "Many works have already been done and if there is any work and if the Bangladesh government and Bangladesh think that those works will be positive for Bangladesh, then it will undoubtedly be considered." Highlighting the content of the meeting with the Communist Party of China, the BNP secretary general said, "Our party's position on the One China Policy has been unequivocally stated. In addition, China's amazing progress and international growth under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and the positivity of its Belt and Road Initiative have been expressed with dignity and respect on our part." In this meeting, BNP called for China to play a greater role in Bangladesh's infrastructure development, digital technology, semiconductors, renewable energy, medical and healthcare, higher education, communications, modern agricultural technology, SME business, blue economy and advanced technology transfer.

BNP Secretary General said that in the meeting with the CPC, Politbureau Member Li Hongsong invited BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman to visit China and China expressed optimism about starting a new program with an elected government soon. Fakhrul said, "Marking the golden jubilee of the establishment of diplomatic relations, we look forward to seeing more practical examples of this, so that it can be further strengthened through cultural and tourist exchanges, and technology transfer between us." He said, "On our part, we have called for cooperation in the spirit of development and prosperity, while upholding mutual dignity, where the priority of the people and public welfare is at the highest level. At the same time, we have respectfully congratulated China's position on behalf of the oppressed in view of the changing regional and geopolitical situation and have called for its comprehensive visibility." The BNP Secretary General said that the construction of the Bangladesh-China Friendship Hospital, practical steps to preserve and increase export opportunities for agricultural products produced in the northern part of the country, facilitating the treatment of Bangladeshi patients in four specialized hospitals in Kunming, and initiatives to establish international land communication between China and Bangladesh were discussed prominently.

Noting that the Communist Party of China has proposed signing of a two-year political Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), he said, "We have accepted this as a positive gesture." The BNP Secretary General expressed gratitude to the Communist Party of China, the party's International Department and the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka for organizing the China visit. BNP Standing Committee Members Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy and Selima Rahman, Chairperson's Advisory Council Member Ismail Zabihullah, Prof. Sukomal Barua, Zahir Uddin Swapan, Media Cell Convener Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel and Chairperson's Private Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar were present at the press conference.

Organizers stated that the initiative aims to further strengthen the party’s organizational structure. In his speech, Mr. Aminul Haque urged party members and activists to work in unity and prepare for active participation in the upcoming political movements and struggles. A significant number of party members attended the program and responded enthusiastically to the membership renewal drive.

BNP national executive committee member Md Salah Uddin Khan filed the case on Sunday morning against 24 individuals, including ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and three former chief election commissioners, for manipulating the national elections in 2014, 2018 and 2024. Former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, four former inspectors general of police (IGP), several former election commissioners, and former chiefs of SB, NSI and DGFI had been accused in the case. Police later in the day (June 22) took KM Nurul Huda into their custody from his residence at sector 5 of Uttara as a mob apprehended the former CEC at around 7pm. He was later shown arrested in the case.

To this end, BNP congratulated the President. Besides, the BNP expressed its expectation for China's greater participation in infrastructure development and employment-related projects in Bangladesh. Later, the high-level BNP delegation attended a luncheon hosted, in honour of them, by Sun Haiyan, Vice Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee. The high-level BNP delegation has been on a visit to China since last Monday. The nine-member delegation comprised of BNP standing committee members Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Selima Rahman and AZM Zahid Hossain. BNP chairperson's advisory council members Zahir Uddin Swapon, Ismail Jabiullah and Prof Sukomal Barua, along with BNP media cell convener Maudud Ahmed Pavel, also joined the delegation.

He said that BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has announced a 31-point program after taking a comprehensive look at the people of the country. It is possible to turn Bangladesh into a modern and prosperous country with these 31 points. The BNP Vice Chairman said that if the BNP wins the people's vote and comes to power in the future, Bangladesh will be developed into a developed and prosperous modern country under the leadership of Tarique Rahman through the implementation of the 31 points.

Abdul Awal Mintu said that 'mob justice' is being done to create an unstable environment in the country. They must be identified quickly and brought under the law and punished. BNP does not believe in mob culture. At the event, Dhaka Metropolitan North BNP Joint Convener M Kafil Uddin Ahmed said that the 31-point program announced by BNP has everything that is necessary for the development of a country. These 31 points are being discussed and reviewed not only in the country but also abroad.

He also said that BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is working to save the country's economy from the way it was destroyed through looting during Sheikh Hasina's regime. The 31-point program is a reflection of that, which has already received a huge response from the people across the country.

Also present at the time were - Dhaka Metropolitan North BNP Joint Convener (in charge of the office) ABMA Razzak, North member Motaleb Hossain Ratan, Turag Thana BNP President Atiqur Rahman Atiq, former Dakshinkhan Thana President Shahabuddin Sagar, former Airport Thana President Julhas Parvez, former Uttara-Purbu Thana General Secretary Adv. F Islam Chandan, former No. 1 Senior Joint General Secretary of Dakshin Khan Thana Haji Masud, former Senior Vice President of Airport Thana JASAS Habibur Rahman Palash, among others.

He added, “Local residents asked Kamrul why he, being an Awami League member, was involved in such destructive plans. At that point, he started making false accusations against BNP leaders. Eventually, he alleged that my people demanded a bribe of 20,000 taka from him—an entirely fabricated and baseless claim. Even his father personally came to me and stated that although Kamrul was previously involved with the Awami League, he no longer wishes to be a part of it.” It was further revealed that Kamrul is currently working at a gas cylinder shop in the Trollerbag area, which reportedly lacks any fire service approval. Local residents have expressed concern over this matter. Rafiqul Islam Jinnah emphasized, “This smear campaign is aimed at undermining me and the BNP's political standing. While some senior leaders remain inactive after August, a few minor operatives continue plotting sabotage on the ground. My colleagues and I remain vocal against such malicious efforts.”

Other leaders of Chhatra Dal have also expressed their outrage over the incident. Omar Faruk Shakil, Joint Convener of the Darussalam Thana unit of Dhaka Metropolitan West Chhatra Dal, also alleged that false accusations have been made against him. He said, “This fictitious and fabricated narrative is being spread to tarnish my political image and reputation. It’s a calculated political attack.” Chhatra Dal activists stated, “Rafiqul Islam Jinnah is not a leader made in a day. He stood by the party during tough times, continues to do so, and will remain so in the future. A dedicated leader cannot be defeated. The torch always overcomes the darkness.” This rebuttal is a clear and detailed response by Rafiqul Islam Jinnah, made publicly to counter falsehoods and expose the conspirators. It reflects a firm stance from the BNP and Chhatra Dal against political conspiracies, based on facts—not rumors.

Know the truth, not the lies.

"The spirit of the people's uprising cannot be stopped by making NCP activists insecure. Even if our lives are at stake, we will not retreat a single step," he said. Akhter claimed that since its rise as a reform-oriented political force, its digital and grassroots activists have increasingly come under both online and street-level assaults. He noted that Monday's incident shows how those threats are now materializing as physical violence. Akhter also said despite repeated provocations and unlawful street marches by elements of the banned Awami League, Chhatra League, and Jubo League, no arrests have been made. "This silence is emboldening the fascist remnants," Akhter added. Calling for urgent action, the NCP leader demanded immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attacks and all individuals conspiring to destabilize the democratic process.

"We want to make it clear: no matter how many bombs are thrown, no matter how much intimidation we face - the goal of this uprising will not be compromised," Akhter said, adding, "We are carrying the dreams of our martyred brothers. Our struggle is rooted in the people - and it will not be stopped by fear." Senior leaders of the party were also present at the midnight protest.

BNP Chairperson's Advisory Council members Zahir Uddin Swapon, Ismail Jabiullah and Prof Sukomal Barua, along with BNP Media Cell Convener Maudud Ahmed Pavel, will also join the delegation. Earlier, BNP delegates met Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka Yao Wen at Chinese Embassy here on Thursday evening. Party insiders said the visit aims to strengthen BNP’s relations with the Chinese government and the CPC. Last month, a BNP delegation participated in an international conference in Beijing at the invitation of the (CPC).

In addition, the commission's work plan encompasses dialogue with stakeholders, revisions to various laws and regulations including the RPO, and updates to multiple election-related manuals and guidelines. According to EC officials, they are currently awaiting directives from the Electoral Reforms Commission and the National Consensus Commission. On Saturday, the Chief Election Commissioner said that the date for the 13th National Parliament election will be announced on time, along with unveiling the election schedule in the stipulated time. "While we are not in continuous communication with the government, interaction is taking place to some extent. The election schedule will also be announced as planned," he added. He continued, "What we call an action plan, many people call it a roadmap. The work of preparing it has actually started since we took charge. A clear timeline has been set outlining when each task will begin and when it will be completed." Last Thursday, the commission gave final approval to the draft of the Political Parties and Candidates Code of Conduct, 2025, which prohibits the use of posters in the upcoming parliamentary elections, sets a maximum fine of Tk 1.5 lakh for violations, and introduces new provisions promoting environmentally friendly campaign materials.

On the other hand, the work of demarcation of parliamentary constituencies in the National Parliament may be completed by the end of this week, said Election Commissioner Brig Gen (Retd) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah. Sources said 638 applications have been submitted to the EC for demarcation of 76 parliamentary constituencies. On the other hand, the work of preparing the voter list is also almost at its final stage as the commission has time until June 30 for it. EC officials said they hope to complete the work of preparing the voter list within the stipulated time. EC officials said that there are many election-related purchases, such as transparent ballot boxes and lids for each polling station, voter lists with photos, ballot papers, indelible ink, several types of seals, stamps, stamp pads, ink, bags, 17 types of envelopes, paper, pens, knives, candles, matches, and many other things. Among these, the paper for ballot papers is usually taken from the state-owned Karnaphuli Paper Mill, while the ballot papers are printed at the government printing house after the candidacy is finalized. Apart from this, several other items have to be purchased through open tenders.

Officials said that the tender process for procuring goods has already been completed, and the evaluation phase is now close to conclusion. A work order is expected to be issued during the first week of July. In addition, related tasks such as preparations for constructing voting centers are also underway. Significant progress has been made on finalizing the observer policy. The deadline for submitting applications for the registration of new political parties is set to expire on June 22. According to EC, on March 10, the Election Commission invited applications from new political parties for registration by April 20. A total of 65 parties applied during that period. The EC later extended the deadline until June 22. In this regard, Election Commission Additional Secretary KM Ali Newaz said: "Our voter list work is almost at its final stage." "The draft code of conduct for political parties and candidates was finalized in the commission meeting on Thursday. Now, we are working on demarcation of the parliamentary constituencies. This too will not take long," he added.

Regarding tender for purchasing goods, he said evaluation process of the tender is also nearing completion and "we will be able to issue this work order in the first week of next month". He also said that preparations are underway for related tasks, including the construction of polling stations. In parallel, significant progress has been made in developing policies related to election observers, he added. KM Ali Newaz mentioned that certain legal amendments are necessary, and the commission is actively working on them. "We've taken up these responsibilities to ensure that the national elections can be held on schedule. All our preparations are being advanced with that goal in mind, and we're making every effort to complete them accordingly," he said. Addressing the challenges ahead, he said that conducting the national elections is undoubtedly a complex task, but not an impossible one. "We must proceed with great care. From that perspective, we are preparing thoroughly to ensure the elections are completed successfully."

The BNP leader also reiterated the party’s specific commitment to resolving the Rohingya crisis and ensuring their safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation. Fakhrul urged the international community to force Myanmar to repatriate them to their country by granting them citizenship. He said as with many crises, the international community must work double to resolve the current crisis and collectively push for an effective political dialogue. World Refugee Day is observed globally on June 20 to honor the courage and resilience of refugees and to raise awareness about their plight.

"The tragic experience of Bangladeshis during the Great Liberation War has not been erased from our memories," he said. Despite the challenges, he praised the people of Bangladesh for their continued support for the Rohingya population. "This is a shining example of humanity," he said. Reaffirming to BNP's position, Tarique said the party "expresses full solidarity with the spirit of World Refugee Day" and remains committed to supporting global efforts for the dignity and safe repatriation of forcibly displaced people. Tarique called on the international community, and various donor agencies to continue to pressure Myanmar to repatriate the Rohingya to their country with due dignity.

However, this crisis remains as one of the world's most serious humanitarian crises and its burden is becoming increasingly unbearable for Bangladesh, he mentioned. Tarique Rahman called upon the interim government to intensify diplomatic pressure on Myanmar for the safe, dignified and voluntary repatriation of the Rohingya. He urged all to strengthen commitment to this peaceful and fair system to help each and every refugee to return to their home. 

Earlier, Khaleda Zia reached Evercare Hospital from Firoza at about 6:50 pm on Wednesday. Khaleda Zia returned home on May 6 last after undergoing four-month of advanced treatment in London. After arriving in Dhaka, a medical board under the supervision of Professor Shahabuddin Talukder, a specialist doctor at Evercare Hospital, is providing her with medical care at Firoza. The BNP Chairperson received treatment under the supervision of specialist doctors at 'London Clinic' in London.

The party reportedly informed the commission that it felt ignored after Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman met in London on June 13 and issued a joint statement agreeing to hold the election in February next year. Fakhrul said when a debate was going on and a rift was developing between the interim government and political parties over an unfavourable election timeline in April next year, Tarique Rahman met Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus in London on 13 June at the latter’s invitation. He described the meeting as a rare and historic event, as it paved the way for a peaceful democratic transition. At the meeting, Fakhrul said both Prof Yunus and Tarique moved away from their earlier stances on the election schedule and agreed to hold the polls in February, a week before Ramadan. “This is what we call statesmanship. Without fuelling division or conflict, these two leaders have created an opportunity for a peaceful election,” he said. “Do we like this? If you do, give a round of applause for Tarique Rahman and Prof Yunus,” he said, prompting claps from party leaders and workers.

The release stated that the newly formed district and upazila coordination committees of the NCP have been instructed by Convener Md. Nahid Islam and Secretary Akhtar Hossain to hold their first executive meetings at their respective offices on Thursday (June 19). It further said that following these meetings, the district and upazila committees have been directed to carry out programmes demanding the July Declaration, the July Charter, and the trial for the July Genocide.

Mostafa Jaglul Pasha Papel has been deeply involved with the BNP and Jubo Dal for many years and has held significant responsibilities within the organization during various times.

Leaders and activists of the Jubo Dal have urged the nation to pray for his swift recovery and good health. They said, “We are all praying to the Almighty Allah for the recovery of our brother Papel. We sincerely request everyone to keep him in their prayers so that he may recover quickly.”

Papel’s family and political colleagues have also appealed to everyone to pray for his speedy return to good health and active life among us.

”But our responsibility is to make a level playing field and we are firm to do that”, he added. Referring to the Chief Adviser’s pledge to the nation and the world, the CEC said we want to present a historical election to the nation. The Chief Adviser is telling this as he keeps confidence on us and ability of the commission, the CEC said.

Through this program, various failures of the current government were highlighted and an attempt was made to increase awareness about the outline of state reform proposed by BNP. The leaders believe that these 31 points are a realistic and urgent plan for the future of Bangladesh. Leaders and activists of Dakshinkhan Police Station BNP, its affiliates and associate organizations were present at the time. They held mass contacts among the local people and highlighted BNP's political philosophy and future action plan.

However, the party expressed disappointment that the issues of justice and reform did not get sufficient importance in the talks, comparing to the focus on election dates. In the statement, NCP also expressed concern that the government's focus appeared to be disproportionately skewed toward accommodating a single party’s position on the election date while neglecting the broader expectations of mass people. The statement added that holding the parliamentary election without finalizing the July Declaration, implementing the July Charter, and outlining a clear justice roadmap would reduce the uprising to a mere transfer of power and suppress public aspirations for rebuilding the state.“Announcing an election date before preparing and implementing the July Charter would not be acceptable to the people,” the NCP said.  The NCP urged the government to initiate a collective effort to reach consensus on reform issues with political parties, draft and implement the July Charter, and thus appropriately honor the upcoming July.

Regarding the meeting with the Chief Advisor, the BNP Secretary General said, “This was discussed a few days ago, when we decided that the Chief Adviser would go to London, that since our party's acting chairman is there, a meeting could be held there.  This possibility started from then. Now it has been confirmed.” He said a meeting of the party’s standing committee was held last night with Tarique Rahman in the chair. 

The interim government must show professionalism through necessary reforms in the law enforcing agencies, Election Commission and the judiciary, he added. Principal Organizer of NCP (south region) Hasnat Abdullah and coordinator of Panchagar Sadar Upazila Tanbirul Bari Nayon were present. Earlier, Sarjis Alam along with Hasnat Abdullah exchanged Eid greetings with party leaders and workers.

“We not only slaughter animals; we also vow to abandon our pride, selfishness and any kind of compromise with injustice,” they added. They also recalled the outstanding contribution of martyrs, injured and other fighters of July Uprising.

Stating that special importance was given to villages along with cities in Ziaur Rahman's national development process, Maruf Mallick said that village development was the main basis of economic development as per the Ziaur Rahman's philosophy. Noting that this was one of the philosophies of national development, he said it was believed that the economy would move forward if the overall situation of the village improved. For the development of rural life, initiatives were taken for agricultural irrigation, canal digging, education, security, development of communication system, provision of electricity, maintenance of fertilizers, seeds and irrigation equipment, he said, adding that in addition, initiatives were taken to create rural administration through administrative decentralization as there were two such programmes, the Village Government and the Village Defense Force. The political analyst said initiatives were taken to establish various social, political and economic institutions at the grassroots level for the development of villages. 

The main objective was to increase the involvement of the people in the governance and to take the governance outside the government and political parties, especially to increase the participation of women and youths, he said. Mallik said immediately after the independence, the country's war-torn economy was chaotic and fragile. "The policy system of the Awami League and the Baksal government was not very sustainable and suitable for the reconstruction of the economy in a country devastated by war. A centralized somewhat socialist-style economic policy was adopted," he said. Mallick said a strong economic, social and political foundation is needed to implement socialist policies. But the overall situation of the country at that time was not suitable for the implementation of socialist economic policies, he said, adding that socialism was popular as a slogan at that time as well as revolutions were being organized in various countries. 

"Jamal Abdel Nasser in Egypt, Muammar Gaddafi in Libya staged a coup by talking about revolution. In Chile, Dictator Augusto Pinochet overthrew Salvador Allende. A few days ago, a revolution was completed in Cuba under the leadership of Fridel Castro and Che Guevara," he said referring to the historical accounts. He said after the fall of colonialism, the revolutionaries were in the throes of struggle against imperialism and expansionism. "At that time, the revolutionary slogan of socialism shook the whole world. The newly independent Bangladesh could not go beyond this revolutionary spirit. But Bangladesh did not have the ability to accept or implement socialism at that time. At that time, the policy makers were somewhat imaginary and dreamy," he said. "Without considering anything before and after, they started implementing one economic policy after another. All factories and industries were nationalized. All political parties were banned and a one-party rule was established in the country. But it must be remembered that this was not a dictatorship of the proletariat. Rather, there was exclusive political and economic empowerment of the elite," he added.

Mallick said the overall situation in the country was not investment-friendly as no savings plan of the then government was noticed. "The country's first five-year plan was practically a continuation of the 4th five-year plan of the Pakistan period. There were no new plans and policies that were people-friendly," he said. "However, the country gained independence through a bloodstained war and the infrastructure was completely destroyed and corruption had reached extreme levels. Inflation and deflation were extremely rampant. Mismanagement, unemployment, and misuse of state resources had increased," he said. "There was a shortage of goods in the market. There was a food crisis. The price of salt had skyrocketed. The situation became deplorable due to smuggling, smuggling of food products, and illegal warehousing. Due to which the country faced famine in 1974. The cause of the famine was a managerial error. There was no shortage of goods," he said. According to official figures, 26,000 people died in the famine, he said, adding but in Rangpur division alone, 80,000 to 100,000 people died (Armatya Sen, 1986). 

"Political problems and administrative weakness led to a delicate situation. The economy went into a bad state due to the lack of proper punishment of the corrupt and the abuse of power (Professor Nurul Islam, First Vice Chairman of the Planning Commission)," he said. Mallick said that in this situation, there was great pressure on Ziaur Rahman to restructure the country's economy and bring it to a stable level. "He had two options. Continuing the socialist centralized economic programme introduced in various countries in Latin America and Africa or building a center-left social democratic economic and political structure following the model of Western Europe," he said. "Ziaur Rahman chose the second path. He opened up the country's politics. He liberalized the economy. But he did not completely give up state control. For this, he implemented a state-controlled free market policy. He was successful in this. The people of the country also quickly benefited. Soon the prices of goods came down to a tolerable level. The supply of goods in the market also increased," he said.

The political analysts said the first thing Ziaur Rahman did was to bring the whole country under one rule. "Ziaur Rahman also hoped that everyone would follow the rules and give maximum labor for the country. During Ziaur Rahman's rule, overall growth increased. The government and private sectors achieved significant progress. Agricultural production, especially rice production, increased. The number and production of various mills and textile mills increased," he said. He said Ziaur Rahman's policies emphasized fair and equitable distribution of wealth. "In the economy, he took the initiative to establish equal rights for men and women based on merit. The main goal was to create a production-oriented economy, increase exports, and improve the standard of living," he said. Mallick said there has been a lot of talk about Ziaur Rahman's politics and economic reforms. But what is not discussed much is the environment-friendly development policy, he said, adding during Ziaur Rahman's tenure, the development policy was adopted considering the character of the Bengal Delta. Instead of harming the environment and nature, he took up various programs with greater importance, he said adding in this regard, the digging of canals can be mentioned at that time. 

During Ziaur Rahman's tenure, he said, 26,000 miles of canals were dug across the country. The political, economic, and social impact of these canals was deep and far-reaching, he said. Initially, these canals were excellent examples of water management using local technology without harming the environment, he said. "Here, our water comes from upstream. And there is salinity in the south. The canals expanded the area of water flow. They were used as reservoirs in the dry season. However, now we talk about creating water reserves by making a delta plan. Ziaur Rahman showed in 1977 how it is possible to create natural reservoirs across the country at low cost. Canal digging had a direct impact on agriculture. That is why canal digging became a national programme," he said, adding that along with this, Ziaur Rahman gave importance to social forestry. 

Ziaur Rahman suggested planting fruit trees on both sides of every highway, road and footpath in the country, he said.  As a result, in addition to maintaining the balance of the environment, the opportunity to eat nutritious fruits was created for the common people, he said. Ziaur Rahman did not talk about planting trees considering the economic aspect. He also considered its social benefits, he said.  Basically, the basis of Ziaur Rahman's plan was to advance development without causing as much damage to the soil, water, nature and environment as possible, he continued. He said, besides setting the wheels of the economy in motion, the sustainable liberal development policy of the environment-friendly center-left trend took Ziaur Rahman to the people in the field in a real sense. Earlier, leaders used to stay on the stage and on the roads, he said. "This was the first time that a ruler mingled with the common people in the field, canal, and beel. They cut canals together. They sat and ate together. This basically formed the political foundation of Ziaur Rahman," he added. 

He said the financial structure under which the existing political parties have operated their parties in the last fifty years is quite opaque and flawed. Extortion, tender rigging and money laundering were the main sources of financing, he added. To address these long-standing issues, the NCP has launched a citizen-driven initiative titled 'Your Donation, Future Bangladesh (Apnar Onudaney, Agamir Bangladesh).' The initiative invites public contributions to fund the party's activities, aiming to establish a new precedent for political operations in the country. Nahid also highlighted various channels for donations, including an official party website.

The program was organized by Rizvi Ahmed Dipto, former Office Secretary of Darussalam Thana Chhatra Dal. Party leaders and activists prayed for the eternal peace of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman’s departed soul and emphasized party unity and the ongoing political movement to restore democracy and protect the people’s rights. At the end of the Milad, Tabarruk (blessed food) was distributed among attendees. During the event, Mustafa Jaglul Pasha Papel said, "The neem tree planted by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in Madinah still stands as a silent witness to his legacy."

Special Correspondent: Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the proclaimer of Bangladesh’s independence, remains a shining figure in the nation’s history. Beyond his contributions to the country, his deep respect and love for Islam is evident in many ways — one of which is the neem tree he personally planted in the holy city of Madinah. It is known that during an official visit to Madinah, he planted a neem tree that still stands tall today. Though much has changed over time, the tree continues to remind us of a patriotic and devout leader’s presence and ideals. Local sources say that during his stay in Madinah, Shaheed Zia exemplified Islamic and humanitarian values through his graceful and humble behavior.

BNP leaders and activists said, "Ziaur Rahman was not just a president; he was a symbol of ideals, sacrifice, and dedication. The neem tree in Madinah stands silently as a living witness to his life." His followers believe this symbol will inspire future generations to love their country and respect Islam.

Notable attendees included:
Chief Guest Mustafa Jaglul Pasha Papel;
Hafizul Hasan Shubro, Convening Member, BNP Dhaka North Metropolitan;
Shafayat Rabbi Arafat, Joint Convenor, Jubo Dal Dhaka North;
Golam Rasul Parvez, President, Darussalam Thana Sramik Dal;
Alomgir Hossain Bhuttu, Joint Convenor, Darussalam Thana BNP;
Shaheen, Ratan, Mosharraf Hossain Ratan, General Secretary, Ward 10 BNP;
Zahirul Islam Zahir, Senior Joint General Secretary;
Kuddusur Rahman Biplob, Convenor, Ward 10 Jubo Dal;
Shantanu Hossain Rubel, Member Secretary;
Mosharraf Hossain Parvez, Joint Convenor;
Hafiz, Leader of Darussalam Thana Volunteer Wing;
Sarwar Alam Piyas, Vice President, Dhaka Metropolitan West Chhatra Dal;
Rafiqul Islam Jinnah, Senior Joint General Secretary;
Iqbal Hossain Dipu, Senior Vice President, Darussalam Thana Chhatra Dal;
Riyad Islam Asif, Jihad, Rashedul Islam Babu, Shaon, Shamim, and others.

On the issue of legal action regarding the party’s deregistration, he said, “We have no plans to pursue legal action at this time, but we will consider it.” Regarding confidence in the Election Commission, Dr Shafiqur remarked, “We want to give the Election Commission time to prove themselves through their actions. Currently, there’s little activity beyond the Union level under the Ministry of Local Government, which is causing public suffering. Local elections should be held soon to allow the Election Commission to demonstrate its capabilities.”

“I was glad to see yesterday's meeting take place and look forward to clear progress on democratic transition, justice for those wronged over the past 15 years—including in July 2024—and much-needed reforms,” he said. He expressed hope that the interim government would act wisely and decisively. “I sincerely hope the interim government has the wisdom and capability to make the right decisions, starting with the urgent declaration of an election roadmap. The longer this delay continues, the greater the risk that the nation will begin to question the interim government’s intentions,” he added. “Let us not miss this opportunity to put Bangladesh on a path toward genuine democracy and accountability,” Fakhrul concluded.

According to the OC, SI Kamrul Islam was on his way to work at Motijheel Police Station from his residence in the Basabo area. When he reached the road opposite Khalil’s Meat Shop in Khilgaon, a Balaka Paribahan bus hit his motorcycle, causing him to fall onto the road. Locals rushed him to the hospital in critical condition, but he succumbed to his injuries around 9:30 pm. SI Kamrul Islam’s badge number was 9019223215. He lived with his family in a rented apartment in Basabo, Khilgaon. His ancestral home is in Netrakona Sadar Upazila. OC Jahangir Hossain added that the body of the deceased has been kept at Mugda Medical College Hospital. The bus involved in the accident has been seized, and its driver, Jahangir Ahmed Tipu, has been arrested. Legal proceedings are underway.

“The second point we raised was the upcoming anniversary of our mass uprising. With July approaching and the first anniversary of our democratic movement on August 5 drawing near, we urged that the July Charter be finalized with signatures from all stakeholders and formally enacted within the month,” he added. Nahid also said, “If the election date is announced before declaring the July Charter, the reform process may be hampered. Therefore, we have urged the government—after waiting 16 years and 10 months—we are willing to wait another two months. And we want to give time to the government, collectively with all political parties.”

“Once the July Charter is in place, we expect the government to declare the election date. Only then we will reveal our party’s preferred timing for the election,” he said. Finally, NCP raised concerns about the neutrality of the Election Commission (EC). “A fair election is impossible without reform of the commission,” said Nahid. “Existing laws regarding the polls and the Election Commission must be revised, and the EC must be restructured. The current process raises serious questions about neutrality, and we urge the government to address this without delay,” said Nahid.

Following his statement, former minister and Awami League Law Affairs Secretary S M Rezaul Karim broke his silence in an interview with Australia-based journalist Fazlul Bari on YouTube. In the interview, Karim claimed he had faced a "deadly plot" post-August 5 that ultimately forced him to flee the country, alleging that a Chhatra League leader was involved in a plan to abduct him.

S M Rezaul Karim detailed the harrowing experience, stating: "It was a brutal situation. I was staying at my NAM flat. Even the night before, I was in touch with high-level officials. My wife repeatedly told me that no one else was left in the building. I scolded her. My daughter, who is a barrister in London, warned me that the situation was dangerous and urged me to leave. I asked my wife to turn off the television, fearing it would traumatize me. I believed the Prime Minister would handle the situation. I didn’t leave the flat, but later found out I was the only one left in the entire building."

The next morning, a mob arrived outside the NAM building. The caretaker warned him not to come out. A peon informed him that people were looking for him by name. “I was told to keep the lights off and stay hidden,” he said.

“My son in Australia called and said my house would be stormed. I was too weak to even move furniture to block the door. I switched off the fan and lights. Then they began kicking the door violently,” Karim recalled.

His bodyguard, from a distance, warned him not to open the door under any circumstances. The intruders, assuming the flat was empty, eventually left, aided by building staff who cut the electricity to make it seem uninhabited.

By divine intervention, a man who had once received legal help from Karim during the 1/11 emergency period came to his aid. This man was part of the student movement and had learned that Karim was still in the building. Disguised with a mask, Karim left the building with this man pretending to be ill, accompanied by his family.

“We left with nothing—just the clothes we were wearing. We went to Apollo Hospital. We didn't even have money to pay a CNG fare,” he said. They moved between various relatives’ houses in secrecy. Despite all efforts, their whereabouts were often discovered.

The most chilling incident occurred when Taposh Chowdhury, president of his local Upazila Chhatra League, knocked on his door. "He said he was picked up by hackers and law enforcement who demanded Tk 12 crore. My brother, a banker, negotiated down to Tk 5 crore," said Karim.

Taposh, whom Karim claimed he had financially supported into his leadership role, allegedly joined forces with opposition elements from BNP and Jamaat out of greed. “I told them I would go to the police station. My son texted me not to go with any unknown people. But they were forcing me into a lift,” he recalled.

During this scuffle, a loyal staff member arrived on a motorcycle and managed to whisk him away, dodging cars in pursuit. “They were waiting to abduct my wife and brother too,” he said.

Eventually, he fled to a border area with the help of a former MP and his brother. He crossed the border through a muddy swamp after enduring nearly four hours of physical hardship. "Barbed wire tore my body, but somehow I made it across."

In Kolkata, with the help of Bangladeshi expatriates and local supporters, Karim arranged for his arrival stamp and exit permission. He later left for another country, which he chose not to name.

Reflecting on the ordeal, S M Rezaul Karim said: “It all feels like a dream. It’s as if I returned from the mouth of death. At every step, I felt the divine power of Allah guiding me to safety.”

This figure already surpasses the total repayment made in the entire previous  fiscal year, he added. "The repayment amount in the first 10 months has risen by 24.73 percent compared to the same period last year," the adviser continued. He further elaborated that during this period, principal repayments amounted to approximately USD 2.02 billion, a sharp 32.86 percent increase from the USD 1.66 billion repaid during the corresponding period of the last fiscal year.

In a separate post, Asif Mahmud addressed urban water-logging issues following recent heavy rainfall. This season, water-logging has been "less severe than ever before" due to proactive drainage management, he stated."Drainage systems were prepared in advance to ensure proper water flow," he said, adding that the city corporation workers remained active through the night during the rainfall, which significantly minimized water stagnation.He urged residents to contact the control room if they experience water-logging in their areas, emphasizing the government's commitment to swift response in any hassle.

The event will commence at 2pm in front of the BNP's central office in Nayapaltan. BNP's acting chairman Tarique Rahman will join the rally virtually as the chief guest.

The rally is being jointly organized by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, Jubo Dal and Swechchhasebak Dal with participants from the Dhaka, Faridpur, Sylhet and Mymensingh divisions. 

Senior leaders from BNP and the affiliated organizations will also address the rally.

Thousands of young people and students are expected to attend, as part of a broader initiative to engage the youth in politics. 

As per the month-long campaign schedule, the three wings have been holding rallies and seminars across the country throughout May.

Earlier, similar events were organized in Chattogram, Khulna, and Bogura. The Dhaka rally marks the concluding event of the eight-day programme, held across four major divisions, dedicating two days to each region. 

BNP Standing Committee Member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain said this while reading out a written statement at an emergency press conference at BNP chief’s Gulshan office on Tuesday.

BNP has demanded an immediate announcement of a specific roadmap for the formation of a national parliament by December through fair elections.

“Otherwise, it will be difficult for BNP to continue cooperating with this government,” Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain said.
He said the statement of the council of advisers issued following the meeting of Chief Adviser with political parties is “ambiguous”, which created confusion among various quarters. 

He said BNP and other political parties never demanded the chief adviser's resignation and they still do not want it.

“But we have been demanding a roadmap for a fair, impartial national election should be held in December under the leadership of the interim government,” said the senior BNP leader.

“Since reform is an ongoing process, both the reform and the election process can go on simultaneously. At the same time, the trial process of the fallen fascist forces and individuals and the party and those accused of crimes against humanity, will continue,” he said.

Mosharraf said the statement mentioned that the government is facing problems in fulfilling its responsibilities due to influence of “defeated forces and as part of a foreign conspiracy”. 

“We believe that it is possible to stop the influence of defeated forces and foreign conspiracy only through a fair, impartial national election as soon as possible. Therefore, there is no alternative to giving a specific roadmap for the election immediately,” he said.

Mosharraf hoped the government will take measures for Ishraque Hossain’s oath as the mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation without delay.

BNP standing committee members Mirza Abbas, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahuddin Ahmed, Selina Rahman, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud and Major (retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed were also present at the press conference.

He made the remarks in a message issued on the occasion of the International Week of the Disappeared.

Fakhrul said that although the international community strongly protested the issue of enforced disappearances in Bangladesh, the previous AL government abducted leaders and activists of political opponents, including those from the BNP, for a decade and a half without paying heed to any criticism.

"Although people were abducted and disappeared in front of everyone's eyes, the fallen Awami League government always shamelessly denied the issue of disappearances in all international forums," he said.

The BNP Secretary General said that only a democratic government, elected through a fair election, can ensure the security of all people, as such a government is accountable to the people.

Citing an international human rights organization, he said that about 666 people were victims of enforced disappearances by Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies from 2009 to March 2024.

According to BNP's data, the number is even higher, he said, adding that some victims have been killed; some were shown arrested after a long time, and many remained missing.

The BNP Secretary General expressed deep sympathy to all the victims of enforced disappearances in Bangladesh and around the world, as well as to their families.

The incident occurred near the house of former commissioner Kayum in Gudaraghat.

Critically injured, Kamrul Ahsan was rushed to the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, where the on-duty doctor declared him dead. Upon receiving the news, police from both Gulshan and Badda police stations responded to the scene.

Badda Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md Saiful Islam confirmed the incident. However, neither the police nor the victim’s family could confirm the identities of the attackers or the motive behind the killing.

The body of Kamrul Ahsan has been kept at the morgue of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital for autopsy, the Badda OC added.

Ismail Hossain, the husband of the victim’s niece, said Kamrul Ahsan was having tea at a roadside stall opposite the office of former commissioner Kayum on Road No. 4 in Gudaraghat. He was sitting there with a few others when two masked men suddenly approached and began firing indiscriminately. Kamrul Ahsan collapsed on the spot after being shot. The assailants fired blank shots while fleeing the scene.

The full bench of the Appellate Division of the SC, led by Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed, will announce the verdict.

Earlier, on May 8, the SC fixed May 27 for delivering the verdict after hearing arguments from both the prosecution and the defense.

The Appellate Division granted permission to file a petition against Azhar’s death sentence on February 26 this year.

On December 30, 2014, the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) sentenced Azharul Islam to death.

The Appellate Division later upheld the trial court's verdict on October 31, 2019, after hearing the appeal.

Azhar filed a review petition with the Appellate Division on July 19, 2020, seeking reconsideration of the apex court’s verdict.

for Rakibul Hasan, a July uprising injured.

The injured Rakibul, an electrician and Swechchhasebak Dal activist, was reportedly attacked by members of the ruling party's student wing Chhatra League and police forces during a movement at the ECB premises in the capital on July 18.

As per under Tarique Rahman's directives, the delegation of 'Amra BNP Paribar', a cell of BNP, visited Rakibul’s family today in the Tetultala area of Khilkhet here.

The visiting delegation was led by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Amra BNP Paribar Chief Adviser Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.

He was accompanied by the 'Amra BNP Paribar' convener and journalist Atiqur Rahman Rumon, 'Amra BNP Paribar' advisors Engineer Ashraf Uddin Bakul, Md Abul Kashem and Engineer Mostafa-e-Zaman Selim.

Member Secretary Agriculturist Moksedul Momin Mithun and members Masud Rana Liton, Mustakim Billah, Farhad Ali Sajeeb and Shahadat Hossain were also part of the delegation.

During the visit, they talked to Rakibul Hasan’s mother, delivering a personal message of solidarity and good wishes from Tarique Rahman.

They assured the family of continued support and reaffirmed their commitment to stand by Rakibul in his recovery and beyond.

Jatiyatabadi Swechchhasebak Dal Vice President Dr Zahid, Chhatra Dal central committee Vice-President Habibul Bashar, Joint Secretary Hasnain Nahian Sajeeb and Chhatra Dal leaders Mashiur Rahman Mahan and Abdullah Al Misbah, were also present, among other, on the occasion.

"The Chief Adviser said he wants to hold the general election between December and June. We want to trust his words," Shafiqur said while addressing the party's Central Majlish-e-Shura session at Al Falah auditorium in Dhaka's Moghbazar on Saturday morning, May 24.

"He (Prof Yunus) did not take this responsibility by force, rather we assigned him. So, it is our duty to suppor him," Shafiqur said, adding that a fruitful dialogue is essential to avoid further uncertainty, and the government must do it.

Stating that Jamaat-e-Islami is supporting the interim government as much as possible, he urged other political parties to cooperate with it.

The Jamaat amir also noted that the party urged the interim government to convene a all-party meeting to resolve the country's ongoing crisis.

"The July Proclamation should be published within the stipulated time, and roadmaps for the trial, reforms and election is needed to be announced together," NCP Convener Nahid Islam said while addressing a press conference at the party office on Saturday, May 24.

Mentioning that the government has a responsibility to implement the spirit of the mass uprsing, Nahid emphasised, "The government must move towards election through the trial of mass killings and fundamental reforms of the state."

The Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, confirmed that Yunus held an unscheduled Council of Advisers meeting Saturday afternoon, following the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) session, to discuss pressing issues.

The BNP delegation, set to meet Yunus at approximately 7 PM, aims to address the volatile political climate and clarify misunderstandings with the interim government. 

A BNP standing committee member told UNB, “We’ve been invited to discuss the latest developments. We want to defuse tensions.” The party has learned that Jamaat-e-Islami will follow with a separate meeting, signaling Yunus’s push to engage major political players.

The BNP has publicly opposed Yunus’s resignation, warning it could spark a new crisis. Instead, they plan to urge him to expedite reforms and announce a clear election roadmap by December. 

“We’re not asking for his resignation,” said BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on a private TV channel. “We want a roadmap. If he resigns without one, that’s his choice.” 

The party has also demanded the removal of “controversial advisers,” including those allegedly tied to a new political party and the National Security Adviser, to ensure government neutrality.

Tensions flared after BNP’s Thursday ultimatum, with Standing Committee member Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain threatening to reconsider cooperation unless an election timeline is set. 

Media reports suggested Yunus contemplated resigning, frustrated by protests and remarks from the Army Chief on Wednesday about the government and elections. 

However, no official confirmation of such plans has emerged.

The meetings come as speculation swirls about the interim government’s next steps, with the nation watching closely for signs of stability or further unrest.

The remarks, delivered during an unscheduled closed-door Advisory Council meeting following the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) session on Saturday, were shared with reporters by Planning Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud.

Wahiduddin, elaborating on Yunus’s statement, emphasised the Chief Adviser’s unwavering commitment. “He never said he would leave,” Wahiduddin clarified. “Professor Yunus stressed that the responsibilities we’ve been given are critical, and the country’s future for years depends on them. Despite many obstacles, we cannot abandon this duty.” 

The comments come amid speculation about Yunus’s position, fuelled by political tensions and public protests.

The Advisory Council meeting, held at the NEC conference room in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, began at 12:20pm and concluded at 2:20pm, with 19 advisers in attendance with Yunus in the chair. None but the advisers were allowed in the meeting. 

Earlier, the ECNEC meeting, starting at 11:00 AM, approved 10 projects by 12:15 PM. Unlike typical ECNEC sessions, no post-meeting briefing was held, and all government officials, including the Cabinet Secretary and Planning Secretary, left the room before the Advisory Council convened, signalling the sensitivity of the discussions.

Wahiduddin questions about resignation rumours but firmly iterated Yunus’s dedication to steering the interim government through its challenges, underscoring the high stakes for Bangladesh’s stability and progress.

The decision was discussed during an unscheduled meeting of the full commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, at the EC’s Agargaon office in Dhaka on Saturday.

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud confirmed that the EC received a letter from the ACC accusing Hasina of hiding information in her election affidavit. 

“We have sought the opinion of our legal wing on this matter,” Masud told reporters. 

“The legal department will provide its input within two to three days, after which necessary action will be taken,” he said.

No senior EC officials, including the secretary, attended the closed-door meeting, underscoring its sensitivity.

The ACC’s request marks a significant step in addressing allegations of financial misconduct against the ousted prime minister, who has faced mounting scrutiny since her departure from office.

The statement, released after an unscheduled meeting chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the Planning Commission in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, signalled that the government will decide its next steps if its work is rendered impossible.

The council’s meeting, held post the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) session, delved into the interim government’s three primary mandates. 

It addressed disruptions caused by “unreasonable demands, motivated and beyond-jurisdiction statements, and unauthorised programmes” that sow public doubt and hinder progress. 

The advisers expressed concern over efforts to destabilize the normal working environment, attributing them to vested interests.

“The Advisory Council believes greater unity is essential to maintain stability, advance elections, justice, and reforms, and permanently prevent dictatorship,” the statement read. 

The government plans to engage with political parties to clarify its stance and foster cooperation. Despite “hundreds of obstacles,” it remains committed to its duties, prioritising public interest over factional agendas.

However, the council warned that if its work is sabotaged by defeated forces or foreign plots, “the government will lay bare all reasons before the public and take the next decision.” 

Emphasising its roots in the July uprising’s public aspirations, the interim government vowed to act decisively with the people’s backing if reforms, judicial processes, or fair elections are derailed.

Bayozid Bostami Zeem, member secretary of the district unit of Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, filed the case himself on Thursday afternoon.

The accused former lawmakers are Nahid Nigar Sultana, Shah Sarwar Kabir, Umme Kulsum Smriti, Abul Kalam Azad, Mahmud Hasan Ripon, and Mahabub Ara Begum Gini.

Besides the lawmakers, 85 leaders and activists of the banned Awami League and its front organizations have also been named as accused in the case.

According to the case documents, on July 14 and August 4, 2024, members of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement were staging demonstrations at the Gaibandha Government College field and in front of the Deputy Commissioner's office. At that time, several Awami League activists, on the instructions of the accused lawmakers, attacked the demonstrators and beat them severely.

The attackers also tried to kidnap Bayozid Bostami with the intention of killing him. He sustained bullet injuries during the incident, the plaintiff said. 

Confirming the filing of the case, Shahinul Islam Talukder, Officer-in-Charge of Gaibandha Sadar Police Station, said efforts are underway to arrest the accused.

The directive, signed by Muhammad Hasanuzzaman, Director (Administration and Finance) of the National Identity Registration Division of the Election Commission (EC), was sent to the field-level regional election officers on Tuesday.

The directive stated that in order to quickly dispose of applications related to the National Identity Card service, three separate investigation reports have been finalized with the approval of the Secretariat, divided into 'general, expatriate and employee' categories according to the type of application. 

After ascertaining the type of occupation of the applicant, the investigation officer will fill up the applicable 'table' (attached T-1, T-2 or T-3) and send it electronically to the settling officer in the form of an advance letter with the opinion memorandum number.

The fact checking team of the Rumor Scanner mentioned that in fact, under the arrangement of US Embassy in Dhaka, this kind of training programmes are being conducted in the last few years.

So, this kind of training is not new and the viral issue is misleading propaganda, they opined. 

According to Rumor Scanner, the rate of spreading false information involving Bangladesh has increased since last year from Indian media and various social media accounts operated from India.

Moreover, fact-checking has found evidence that a group from home and abroad is systematically spreading rumors, misinformation, and disinformation about various issues of Bangladesh.

Rumor Scanner identified 296 pieces of misinformation spreading on the internet in April alone.

"We were in Qatar where Professor Muhammad Yunus joined the Earthna Summit. We heard the death of Pope Francis just hours before we flew to Qatar," he wrote in a statement posted on his verified Facebook account today. 

"On the second day of our tour, the date for the funeral mass was announced and the Chief Adviser decided to join the mass to pay last tribute to his longtime friend and a towering champion of the poor and marginalised people," Alam said. 

He said, "The trouble was that to join a funeral you needed a black dress -- preferably black suit and Prof Yunus has stopped wearing suits many decades ago." 

"Wherever he goes he wears Kurta woven in Grameen checks in Bangladesh. We discovered that he had a black Koti, but no black Kurta," the press secretary said. 

He said the Chief Adviser's personal staff searched several Doha markets for black Kurta but the ones they found were too expensive. 

Then, Alam said, they headed to ordinary markets in search of any Dorji who can sew a black Kurta in several hours. "But again no luck." 

"Later we found a shop where the tailor from the subcontinent knew who Yunus was. He agreed to make black Kurta in record time," the press secretary said. 

"It cost us only about Taka 5,000," he added.

In a post on his verified Facebook account, he wrote "Unity of patriotic forces is inevitable. I sincerely regret any previous statements and wording that were divisive.” 

“If I remain in government for another day, I want to work with respect and sensitivity towards all forces of the mass uprising," he said, adding, "I hope that the future state will be democratic and inclusive only if we avoid the divisive slogans and label-mongering of the old settlement, which make a larger group of people vulnerable to killing."

The adviser continued, "The enemies of Bangladesh are united and aggressive. Sovereignty and all democratic institutions are under threat. The patriotic people who were united in the July uprising have a long test ahead of them. This test is of unity and patience. We must pass the test."

Speaking at a sit-in at the Kakrail Mosque intersection, he claimed a “plot” was being orchestrated to prevent the BNP from contesting the national polls or returning to power.

He accused two advisors, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain and Mahfuj Alam, of being involved in a “conspiracy” to derail the BNP’s political future.

“A couple of others are also colluding to make sure the Bangladesh Nationalist Party cannot participate in the next election,” Ishraque said. “They want to keep the BNP from competing or performing well, from returning to power, from implementing the 31-point reform agenda of our leader.”

Some of Ishraque’s supporters had been protesting outside Nagar Bhaban since May 14.

On Wednesday morning, a group moved to occupy parts of the road near Matsya Bhaban and Kakrail.

By evening, only the Kakrail group remained.

Ishraque, who has been declared the winner of the mayoral race by court order, visited the Kakrail protest site near the chief advisor’s residence at night and spoke to journalists.

“People might think this is just about one post or title,” he said. “But this movement will determine whether we’ll actually have an election by December that brings in a government chosen by the people.”

He claimed there was now “clear evidence of a conspiracy”.

Ishraque said, “Whenever BNP talked about elections, some groups criticised us, saying we were desperate for power.

"But our party leaders had warned that such a conspiracy could unfold. Now the people can see it for themselves."

He alleged that there was interference from within the interim government in the judiciary during the mayoral election verdict, warning that the same could happen in the national elections, but the BNP would not allow it.

“Today, the Election Commission is virtually held hostage,” he said.

Ishraque added, “The bureaucracy is under its [interim government] grip. If this is how they treat a mayoral candidate, can anyone really expect a fair general election under it?”

He drew parallels with the Sheikh Hasina administration.

“The previous regime also meddled in the judiciary, destroyed the Election Commission, and weaponised the administration. We won’t let another autocracy rise on this soil,” he added.

As a result of the decision, there is nothing obstructing him from taking on the post, said lawyer Mahbub Uddin Khokon.

The bench of Justice Md Akram Hossain Chowdhury and Justice Debasish Roy Choudhury made the decision on Thursday after hearing arguments on the petition on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The court’s decision comes as Ishraque’s supporters held a week of protests to push for him to take on the responsibility of DSCC mayor.

Ishraque lost the DSCC election on Feb 1, 2020, to Awami League’s Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh by nearly 200,000 votes.

But on Mar 27 this year, Judge Md Nurul Islam of the Dhaka Election Tribunal overturned the result and declared Ishraque mayor.

The Election Commission (EC) issued a gazette on Apr 27 naming him mayor, but he has yet to take his oath.

On 14 May, Supreme Court lawyer and Dhaka South resident Md Mamunur Rashid filed the writ plea, seeking to bar the swearing-in.

Meanwhile, Ishraque’s supporters have effectively brought activities at Nagar Bhaban to a standstill for over a week, demanding his immediate swearing-in.

While the High Court hearing was ongoing on Wednesday, protests continued in the capital’s Kakrail and Matsya Bhaban areas.

In response to the pro-Ishraque demonstrations, the National Citizen Party (NCP) held a rally outside Election Bhaban, calling for the Election Commission's reconstitution and local government elections. They accused the commission of partiality in publishing the gazette in favour of Ishraque.

Dismissing the allegation, the EC said that the NCP's claim is "politically motivated" and there is no precedent of the EC being a part of an electoral tribunal’s verdict.

He made the remarks on Wednesday (May 21) while addressing an Officers' Address held at Dhaka Cantonment. Army officers of various ranks stationed in Dhaka attended the event, with many joining virtually.

In addition to the national election, other contemporary issues—such as the humanitarian corridor, Chattogram Port’s container terminal, and related reforms—were discussed during the event, according to multiple sources present.

The Army Chief asserted that the Bangladesh Army would never engage in any activity that could compromise the country’s sovereignty.

Sources familiar with the event reported that General Waker praised the tireless service and dedication of the armed forces in maintaining national stability. Thanking all members, he stated that the army has been supporting the interim government in every possible way and will continue to do so.

He instructed army personnel at all levels to remain neutral and emphasised that, once a political government takes office, the military must return to the barracks.

On the humanitarian corridor for delivering aid to Myanmar’s Rakhine State, the Army Chief said any decision on the issue must come from an elected government and follow a legitimate process. He emphasised that national interest must come first and that such actions should be based on political consensus.

General Waker also addressed the recent debate over assigning the management of Chattogram Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to a foreign company. Responding to a question, he said that public opinion and the views of political leaders must be considered, and that such decisions should be made by a political government.

As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, General Waker called for efforts to ensure the public can celebrate the festival in a safe and festive atmosphere.

He further instructed all ranks to remain neutral and to carry out any future electoral duties with honesty and dedication.

A High Court division bench of Justice Md Khasruzzaman said that the appeal has been placed at the top of the list for hearing tomorrow.

Earlier, the court on May 14 granted bail to Dr Zubaida Rahman as she filed the appeal against her conviction and three-year jail sentence in the case. The court approved her bail until the appeal is resolved and also stayed the fine imposed on her by the lower court. 

Additionally, the High Court sought all relevant documents of the case from the concerned lower court.

Senior advocate SM Shahjahan, Barrister AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon and Barrister Kaiser Kamal argued for Dr Zubaida Rahman, while senior advocate Asif Hassan stood for the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

The High Court on May 13 condoned Dr Zubaida Rahman for her 578 days of delay in filing the appeal against the lower court conviction and three-year jail sentence in the graft case.

The ACC filed the case with the city's Kafrul Police Station against three, including Tarique Rahman and Zubaida Rahman, for amassing illegal wealth and concealing information about the properties.

On August 2, 2023, Dhaka Metropolitan Senior Special Judge Md Asaduzzaman sentenced Tarique Rahman to nine years and Zubaida Rahman to three years in prison in the case.

However, the Ministry of Home Affairs suspended Zubaida Rahman's sentence for one year on September 22, 2024.

"The youth should have the same level of participation in building the future of Bangladesh as they had participated spontaneously in the July mass uprising," he said while addressing a discussion titled 'Youth's Progress and the Future of Bangladesh' at the PID meeting room at the Secretariat here.

He informed the audience that the PID has already formulated a work plan for 'Tarunnyer Utsab' (Youth Festival).

Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Md Kawsar Ahmed addressed the discussion as the chief guest.

The Information Ministry has taken an initiative to form a committee to formulate and implement an action plan for youth advancement, Ahmed said in his speech, urging the officials concerned to implement the PID's work plan regarding the youth festival.

According to the PID work plan, the headquarters and regional information offices will organize seminars, discussions, and workshops titled 'Youth Progress and Future Bangladesh', where the opinions and participation of the youth will be taken into cognizance.

Initiatives have also been taken to publish features and articles on youth progress.

Officials of the PID, including public relations officers of various ministries, were present at the discussion.

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan attended the ceremony as the chief guest, according to an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) press release.

The NAVAL Chief reviewed the smartly turned-out parade and took the salute at the impressive march past and also handed over trophies and flying badges to the graduating Officer Cadets.

Officer Cadet Md. Mutasim Billah Tanim was awarded the coveted "Sword of Honour" for the best all-round performance. Officer Cadet Taki Tahmid Niloy received the "Birshreshto Matiur Rahman Trophy" for the best performance in Flying Training and Officer Cadet Md. Mutasim Billah Tanim was presented the "Commandant's Trophy" for the best performance in General Service Training in No. 86 BAFA Course, read the press release. 

Additionally, Officer Cadet Mahdi Hasan Talha received the "Chief of Air Staff Trophy" for the best all-round performance among the Ground Branch Officer Cadets in No. 86 BAFA Course. 

In this Summer Term, Bir Uttam A K Khandker Squadron was named Champion Squadron and was awarded the Academy Colour.

In his speech, Admiral Nazmul Hassan praised the Bangladesh Air Force for its unwavering commitment to national service and its growing contributions to the country's development. 

He expressed confidence that the Air Force would continue to strengthen its position in safeguarding national interests.

"The BAF is not only playing a crucial role in protecting our skies but also in establishing Bangladesh as a respectful and humanitarian nation on the global stage," he said.

Highlighting the modernization of the Air Force, Admiral Hassan noted the inclusion of advanced aircraft and simulators in the training regime. These upgrades aim to better prepare the next generation of BAF personnel for future challenges.

He also emphasized the growing international recognition of the BAF Academy, stating that its training quality has drawn the attention of the global defense community. To date, 30 foreign flight cadets have graduated from the academy, enhancing the Air Force's image globally.

A total of 45 Officer Cadets, including one female cadet, were commissioned during the parade. The parade was commanded by Officer Cadet Academy Senior Under Officer Md. Mutasim Billah Tanim.

The ceremony concluded with a flypast by BAF aircraft, an aerobatic display, and a parachute jump demonstration by elite BAF paratroopers, captivating the audience and marking the occasion with patriotic pride.

"We had demanded the banning of the Awami League and it has been banned. But the Awami League's Election Commission and constitution have not been banned," he said.

Nasiruddin was addressing a protest rally organized to demand immediate reconstitution of the Election Commission (EC) and initiation of local government elections, taking into consideration the proposals from the Electoral Reform Commission.

The demonstration, which began at 11:40am, concluded around 2:15pm. Hundreds of NCP leaders and activists joined the event, chanting slogans demanding immediate reforms of the EC and the scheduling of local government elections.

Nasiruddin also said, "We are waiting for the July declaration. The Election Commission will be reformed, local elections will be held, a Constituent Assembly election will be announced and we will move toward a beautiful Bangladesh. With this hope, we are ending today's protest."

Earlier, on Tuesday night, at a press conference held at the NCP's temporary central office in Banglamotor, the party's Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain announced the protest program in front of the EC office to demand reformation of the EC and the initiation of local government elections.

"Forget the past and work with new zeal. You must work in accordance with the law and uphold human rights as the current interim government is committed to establishing good governance, human rights and justice," he said. 

He was speaking as the chief guest at the 21st founding anniversary of the RAB at its headquarters in Uttara here.

Jahangir said they are working to reevaluate the activities of the RAB to reform and restructure the force aimed at establishing the rule of law. 

"Hopefully, the people will soon reap the benefits of the initiatives," he said.

The Home Adviser said RAB is being used as a political tool, especially to suppress and oppress the opponents since its inception. 

Mentioning that the force is being accused of violating human rights, enforced disappearances and murders and it reached its highest level during the previous fascist government. 

"Therefore, the use of RAB for political purposes must be stopped forever," he said.

He praised the RAB for its recent role in arresting criminals, recovering illegal weapons, and conducting anti-drug operations to maintain law and order in the country.

Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam and other high-ranking military and civil officials were present, said a Home Ministry press release. 

RAB Director General AKM Shahidur Rahman gave the address of welcome. 

A documentary about RAB's activities was shown at the event.

The Home Adviser also cut a cake and participated in a photo session to mark the anniversary.

"False claims were circulating on social media surrounding the arrest of an Awami League leader named Nirmalendu Das Rana," the press wing said in a statement posted on its verified Facebook account - CA Press Wing  Facts.

On May 18, 2025, several posts on X and Facebook accounts, linked with Awami Lwague, began circulating sensational claims: that Nirmalendu Das Rana (45), a former Union Parishad Chairman of Kargao Union Parishad in Nabiganj Upazila in Sylhet and expelled general secretary of Municipal Awami League, had been abducted by Jamaat-Shibir cadres.

Some accounts even accused Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus of staying silent, insinuating his support for the Islamist political group Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir.

But, a deeper investigation reveals that the claims are entirely false and politically motivated. Rana was not abducted by anyone, rather was handed over to police by some locals after they found him loitering in a market in Sylhet city, the statement said.

"Nirmalendu Das Rana was already an absconding accused in multiple criminal cases. He was the prime suspect in a case filed in September 2024 for attacking a rally organised by political opponents," the statement read.

The press wing said Rana was also sued for assaulting students during the July-August uprising in 2024.

According to newspaper report, during the tenure of the fallen autocratic Awami League government, Rana established a reign of terror in his locality. Despite multiple reports of irregularities and corruption published in various media outlets, he remained reckless and unchecked.

Rana was expelled from the banned Awami League in 2021 for violating party discipline by running as a rebel candidate. He also faced allegations of embezzling Taka 19.08 lakh from Union tax funds in the 2022–23 fiscal year, according to the press wing.

On the night of May 17, locals in a Sylhet city market recognised Rana and assaulted him before handing over to Sylhet Metropolitan police.

"So, the narrative of Rana's abduction is baseless," the statement claimed.

“The Indian restrictions however will cause some temporary loss for businessmen, but to long extent we think it will create an opportunity for Bangladesh to become self reliant”, he said.

The adviser made this comment while replying to a query of a journalist following a youth rally at National Youth Institute in Savar yesterday, a Facebook post of the adviser today said.

Regarding the temporary loss of the businessmen due to the Indian restrictions, the adviser said the loss would help us to become self sufficient in future.

About the launching of the Starlink internet network, Asif Mahmud also a Youth and Sports Adviser said in another Facebook post that it would make a revolutionary change in the telecommunication sector of Bangladesh.

“Particularly, the Starlink will connect the remote and inaccessible areas of the country to get speedy internet service where optical connect is yet to reach.

The protest rally, organised by NCP’s Dhaka Metropolitan chapter, began around 11:45am on Wednesday in front of the Election Bhaban. Around 50 party activists participated in the demonstration.

Masum Billah, an NCP representative from Kalabagan, said: “The current EC is acting in a questionable manner and was formed under an illegitimate law. We demand its reconstitution.”

He also stressed the need for prompt local government elections.

Abu Abdullah, joint secretary of the NCP’s labour wing, added: “We will not accept this EC, which was formed through unlawful means.”

Rehana Akhter Ruma, an NCP representative from Pallabi, said: “We were compelled to stand here today. We want this EC replaced.”

Dr Ishrat Jahan, a representative from the party's Ramna unit, added: “I’m here as a mother. Due to the failure of major parties, we joined the NCP. I condemn this EC. They are clearly backing a major party.”

Calling for a new commission, she said: “Don’t stand in our way. If necessary, we mothers will stage a sit-in demanding the EC’s resignation.”

The NCP’s protest coincided with an ongoing sit-in by BNP leader Ishraque Hossain’s supporters, who are demanding that he be sworn in as mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).

The protest was announced by NCP Member Secretary Akhter Hossen at an emergency media briefing on Tuesday night.

“We call on the interim government to immediately consider the proposal to reform the Election Commission and take steps to reconstitute it and hold local government elections,” he said.

“To press these demands, the NCP will hold a protest in front of the Election Commission office at 12pm on Wednesday.”

NCP Convenor Nahid Islam added: “The current Election Commission must be restructured to hold fair local elections. It can’t be trusted. They sought the opinion of the Law Ministry regarding the Dhaka South mayoral post but made a decision before receiving any response. What guarantee do we have that they won’t act in a biased manner again?”

SECURITY BEEFED UP

Security measures were ramped up around the EC headquarters ahead of the protest by the NCP.

Around 10:30am, police personnel lined up in front of the Election Bhaban, placing barbed-wire barricades across the road.

Alongside the police, members of the Coast Guard, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and the army have also been deployed in the area.

Speaking about the security arrangements, Ibn Mizan, deputy commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police's Tejgaon Division, said: “Police and the Armed Police Battalion (APBn) are stationed in front of the EC building, while the army, RAB, and BGB are patrolling the surrounding area.”

The blockade programme began at 11:15am on Monday.

The protesters took up positions outside the Nagar Bhaban gates and set up a temporary stage. The stage has since been used for musical performances.

Megaphones have been set up from the Nagar Bhaban to the Zero Point area and are repeating slogans. Small processions are being conducted.

The protesters are chanting slogans in support of Ishraque and in opposition to Local Government Advisor Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain. Effigies of the advisor could also be seen among the crowd.

Ishraque’s supporters have also blocked one side of the road in front of the Golap Shah Shrine in Gulistan, leading to difficulties for commuters.

They have also taken up positions on two other roads near the Nagar Bhaban. Despite a sudden shower starting at 12:10pm, the protesters did not move.

Jubo Dal activist Delowar Hossain from Dhaka’s Jatrabari said, “Ishraque Bhai is the mayor of the people. He must be sworn in as the mayor without delay. We will not leave the streets until it is done. No excuses will be tolerated.”

Former senior secretary Md Moshiur Rahman had announced the blockade programme in front of the Nagar Bhaban on Sunday.

On Sunday, the Local Government Division said it is waiting until the High Court rules on a pending petition to declare Ishraque as mayor.

It also urged his supporters to avoid causing “public suffering” through protests, warning it could amount to contempt of court.

The call came on day five of demonstrations demanding Ishraque be given mayoral duties.

Ishraque lost the DSCC election on Feb 1, 2020, to Awami League’s Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh by nearly 200,000 votes.

But on Mar 27 this year, Judge Md Nurul Islam of the Dhaka Election Tribunal overturned the result and declared Ishraque mayor.

The Election Commission (EC) issued a gazette on Apr 27 naming him mayor, but he has yet to take the oath.

Protests began on Wednesday, paralysing operations at the city corporation.

Demonstrators occupied the area again on Sunday and called a “blockade” for Monday.

Speaking ahead of a dialogue with the Bangladesh Communist Party (CPB) at the LD Hall of the parliament complex on Monday, he said this will pave the path to formulating the National Charter.

He said, “I hope that we will be able to discuss all the issues on which there are differences of opinion later. We will conclude the first phase of the dialogue and then start the second phase of these discussions very soon.”

A press conference will be held to announce the progress made in the first phase, he said.

“We have agreed with different political parties on many issues over the last two months of discussions. We hope that we will be able to draft a National Charter through the second phase of discussions based on all the opinions already received from political parties,” he said.

“Every partner, political party, civil society partner, [and other] political and social forces have a role to play in the Consensus Commission's initiative to build a national consensus. We can achieve our goals through our efforts."

Alongside building consensus among political parties on this issue, the Consensus Commission is working to finalise the recommendations forwarded by the panels formed to drive the state reform initiatives.

After seeking opinions of 39 political parties on these recommendations, the commission is holding dialogues based on the views presented by these parties. These discussions began on Mar 20.

The dialogue with CPB resumed on Monday from where it had ended on May 13. It marks the end of the first phase of dialogues.

A seven-member CPB delegation, led by General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince, participated in the dialogue with the commission.

Prince insisted that the election system should be “radically reformed” before holding the national election.

“People want to know whether they will be able to vote properly. Whether there’s a right to contest in the election. Whether there will be any administrative manipulation here. Or whether any communal-regional propaganda will divert people's attention from the voting. Will the old reign of fear be established?” he said.

He believes that the constitution, judiciary, elections, public administration, police and anti-corruption reforms should be discussed in conjunction with health and women's affairs reforms.

He said, “If their proposals are brought up for discussion, issues of public interest will gain more importance in future, people will be able to think and bring people's thoughts to the fore and involve us.

“If the specific questions of reform are brought before the people, if the people think these relate to them, then we can move towards progress.”

Prince said, “Although the Electoral Reform Commission [report] has many things to say, they are not in the questionnaire [spreadsheet]. I think that has created a problem. If the people can find out about them through the media, there will be an opportunity for them to give their opinions.

Sharing the ideals of the NCP on social media, he said the party wants to build an “inclusive democratic state” through these ideologies.

Nahid posted this on the party's Facebook page after a meeting with top NCP leaders on Monday.

The post highlights different issues, including state reforms, women's rights, religious values, national security, and regional politics in seven points.

Nahid wrote, “One of the main foundations of the Bangladeshi state is the Liberation War. The ideals of equality, justice and human dignity of the war and the aspirations of the 2024 mass uprising for a non-discriminatory and democratic state system are the guiding principles of the NCP.

“In addition, we accept the continuity of the anti-colonial and anti-Brahminist struggle of the Hindu-Muslim-Dalits of Bengal as our political and historical foundation.

“The NCP respects citizens' religious beliefs and spiritual values. While acknowledging Islam as the faith of the majority, it values the language, culture, and lifestyle of Bengali Muslims.

“It is equally committed to protecting the religious, cultural, and civil rights of minority religious and ethnic communities.

“The NCP supports religious and cultural integrity for all, opposes Islamophobia, communalism, and all forms of extremism.

“It rejects both secular and theocratic ideologies as ideal and seeks to build an inclusive, democratic state based on coexistence, harmony, and accountability.”

He added, “The NCP embraces a civilisational national identity instead of one based on race, religion, or tribe.

“It will build a national culture by embracing the civilisational identity of the Bengal Delta, a meeting place of many languages and cultures.

“Women's dignity and empowerment are at the core of NCP principles. It will ensure access to education, healthcare, safety, leadership, and employment, and promote fair property rights under family law.

The party, formed by the frontline leaders of the July Movement, considers “Indian hegemony and Hindutva” a threat.

Nahid wrote, “Indian hegemony and Hindutva in South Asia are a cultural and geopolitical threat to Bangladesh. NCP will take a strong political stand against this trend.

“NCP believes Bangladesh should increase strategic relations with other countries based on fairness, dignity, and national interest.

“NCP wants to build a socio-economic system free from discrimination, justice and corruption, similar to a welfare state.

“Education, public health, agriculture, climate, urban management, labour rights, and employment will be the main policy areas of the NCP.

“It has a vision of creating a new economic zone centred on Bangladesh in the Bay of Bengal region.”

Highlighting the formulation of a new constitution, the convenor wrote: “To build a truly democratic state system, it is necessary to restructure the state structure, reform institutions, and formulate a new constitution.

“The main political duty of the NCP is to abolish the fascist system and establish a new political settlement.”

“Proposals such as a Constituent Assembly, Constitutional Council, and referendum have been raised. We’ve clearly expressed our disagreement on these points,” according to the party leaders.

Instead, they argued that it should have been clearly mentioned at the start of the proposals that the implementation of the reforms would be done by the elected government.

CPB General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince made the remarks after a dialogue with the National Consensus Commission at the National Parliament on Monday.

The dialogue, which was postponed on May 13, resumed at 3pm on Monday. Seven members of the party participated in it.

He said, “One of the main tasks before us is to hold fair and free elections. Necessary reforms should be brought forward, but we haven't discussed them yet.

“Some are mentioned in their documents, and we've asked them to raise the issues for discussion.”

He further said, “For example, how can the game of money and dominance of muscle power be stopped in elections? How can propaganda be stopped?

“What can be done to ensure there is no administrative manipulation? Discussions must be held to decide what can be done about these.”

Prince said, “The way they’ve asked the questions (in the spreadsheet), they created a crisis from the start.

“If they had said, ‘This is our opinion—do you agree, disagree, or partially agree? How can we implement it?’ it would’ve helped.

“The word “reform” should’ve come through the elected parliament, but that isn’t even mentioned.

“Instead, they brought up proposals like the Constituent Assembly, Constitutional Council, and referendum. If such topics are made central, consensus won’t be possible.”

Commenting on the vehement opposition to the discussion on the four fundamental principles of the state, Prince said: “They have said that one is ineligible if a case is filed in his name, instead of mentioning ‘crimes against humanity’.”

“We have to transfer power to elected representatives. The people will decide.

“If someone does not keep their word and work for the people, we believe the people will stand against it again.

“If we delay the election, many domestic and foreign evil forces will get an opportunity.”

Commenting that the talks of high-level officials in the government are creating crises, the CPB general secretary said: “Many times, new crises are created by statements from government figures.

“For example, reform wasn’t even on the agenda. The National Board of Revenue was also dissolved overnight without any discussion.”

The programme will be held from May 26 to Jun 2, announced BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi after a joint meeting between the party and its affiliates at the BNP Chairperson’s Office in Gulshan on Tuesday afternoon.

The joint meeting was led virtually by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who is currently in a hospital in Bangkok.

Rizvi said, "Since 7th of June is Eid ul-Azha, our programme has been shortened a bit. The programme will be eight days long. That is, from 25th of May to 2nd of June."

Flowers will be presented at the grave of Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar on May 30 at 10:30am. There will also be a discussion meeting, rice, lentils and clothes will be distributed among the needy, alongside other programmes.

On the occasion of the death anniversary, the BNP flag will be hoisted at half-mast at the party's central office in Naya Paltan, the chairperson's office in Gulshan, and the party offices across the country, and a black flag will be raised.

The BNP and its affiliate organisations will publish posters about Ziaur Rahman and the party will take measures to publish special supplements in various national dailies.

The programme includes a discussion meeting at the Engineers Institution auditorium in Ramna at 3:00pm on May 29, and mass prayers in mosques.

Under the initiative of the Dhaka Metropolitan North and South units, rice and lentils will be distributed among the needy in various Thanas and wards. Clothes will also be distributed.

In addition to the central programmes, BNP units in districts, Upazilas, Thanas, and municipalities across the country will also organise various programmes in memory of Ziaur Rahman, including discussions, and distribution of food and clothes among the needy.

On Aug 15, 1975, a group of army personnel killed Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and members of his family. After that, Ziaur Rahman became the army chief.

After the coup d’etat on Nov 7 of that year, Zia assumed power as the deputy chief martial law administrator under the leadership of president justice ASM Sayem and as the chief martial law administrator on Apr 21, 1977. He was sworn in as the president on Apr 21, 1978.

On May 30, 1981, President Zia was shot dead by a group of soldiers at the Chittagong Circuit House.

BNP observes the day as his “Martyrdom Day”.

Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, advisor to the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives—which oversees city corporations—said no decision can be made until these issues are resolved.

Speaking to journalists after signing an MoU with the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) at the National Sports Council on Monday, the advisor said the ministry has sought legal opinion from the law ministry regarding the complications surrounding Ishraque’s oath-taking.

Ishraque lost the DSCC election on Feb 1, 2020, to Awami League’s Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh by nearly 200,000 votes.

But on Mar 27 this year, Judge Md Nurul Islam of the Dhaka Election Tribunal overturned the result and declared Ishraque mayor.

The Election Commission (EC) issued a gazette on Apr 27 naming him mayor, but he has yet to take the oath.

Protests demanding Ishraque be handed over the mayoral office began on May 14, paralysing operations at the city corporation.

On Saturday, they marched towards the Secretariat and declared Advisor Asif Mahmud “unwelcome” at Nagar Bhaban.

That day, Ishraque sent a letter to the ministry seeking his oath and told a press conference BNP’s paddy sheaf candidates face discrimination.

The protesters staged a "blockade" programme on Monday. They have also announced a sit-in outside the city corporation building on Tuesday.

On the day protests began, DSCC resident Md Mamunur Rashid filed a writ petition to block his oath and called for action against the tribunal judge behind the verdict.

In its Sunday notice, the Local Government Division said it would decide the next steps after the High Court rules on the writ petition.

The notification also urged Ishraque's supporters to refrain from causing "public suffering" ahead of the court's decision.

Advisor Asif Mahmud said many issues have been clarified in the statement issued by the Local Government Division and highlighted they are awaiting legal opinions from the Ministry of Law.

Following the Awami League government’s fall, the interim administration issued ordinances dissolving all city corporations and municipalities in August. Administrators were appointed in place of mayors. Even if not dissolved, the DSCC’s term would have expired in three months.

A key issue now is whether Ishraque would serve only the remaining term or begin a new tenure.

That decision depends on the Election Commission’s gazette, the law ministry’s interpretation and the steps taken by the Local Government Department.

The advisor said, “We have received a legal notice and have been named as respondents in a petition seeking to block the swearing-in. Until all legal matters are resolved, we cannot proceed. If there are no legal barriers, the swearing-in can take place.”

He also urged protestors—whom he termed members of a particular political party—to avoid causing public inconvenience.

“City corporation’s services are being disrupted. We expect them to remain patient and respect the judiciary.”

He said the interim government has banned the AL activities and the Election Commission stayed the registration. So, the party has no scope of taking part in elections.

Election Commissioner Masud came up with the observation while inaugurating the daylong training at the conference hall of the Regional Public Administration Training Centre here today.

The Regional Election Office organised the training titled "Voter List Updating-2025, Subsequent Evaluation and Sustainable Development Planning" for the election officials.

Abdur Rahmanel Masud said they are ready to hold the election at the stipulated time fixed by the Chief Adviser.

Regarding election preparations, he stated that they are fully prepared. "As we are implementing an agency, we have no deficit in our preparation to hold the election," he added.

Earlier, the election commissioner shared views with administrative and police officials at the Circuit House conference hall.

Election Commission Senior Secretary Akter Ahmed, Additional Commissioner of Rajshahi Division Habibur Rahman, Commissioner of Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Muhammad Abu Sufiyan, Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhter, Superintendent of Police Farjana Islam and Regional Election Officer Delwar Hossain were present on the occasion.

"We may have differences of opinion on various issues. That is normal in a democracy. But, we have to take the country forward together," he told an award giving ceremony of Arafat Rahman Koko Memorial Cricket Tournament-2025 in West London on Sunday (local time).

The event was aired live on facebook from verified account of Tarique Rahman. 

Tarique Rahman pledged if BNP is voted to power in next election, they will take steps to improve the quality of sports and the state will bear the entire responsibility of those who represent the country internationally. 

The number of BKSP (Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan) in the country will be further increased in future to produce quality players, he added.

In this connection, he said that one sports education institution or BKSP will be established in each division of the country.

Tarique Rahman said that currently there are BKSPs in four divisions of the country. 

“If we form the government, we will first establish one BKSP in every division so that good quality players are produced. And the state will take the responsibility of those who will represent Bangladesh in the outside world through sports,” he said.

Elaborating his plan, he added, "We can take up a plan to establish a ward-based playground in Dhaka city. If at least three to four bighas of land can be found between two wards, a field will be built there. Children will play, elders will walk. In other words, people will be able to breathe freely there. We have exactly such an idea," he said.

"We want to revamp the school syllabus. It will include sports and second or third language. There will be separate marks in the exam for this. That means he will have to do sports. We will include it," he added.

About the upcoming election, Tarique Rahman urged the government to hold elections by December.

"Many of our leaders and activists have given their lives for this election. They have been victims of enforced disappearances and torture. This is the political right of the people," he said.

Recalling his younger brother Arafat Rahman, Tarique Rahman said, Arafat had everything that was needed to be proud of.

With Abu Naser Sheikh in the chair, Shafraz Ahmed Sharfur of Arafat Rahman Coco Memorial Trust organized the event.

Dhaka Metropolitan North BNP Member Secretary Aminul Haque, former Deputy Land Minister Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu, foreign affairs Advisor to the Acting Chairman of BNP Humayun Kabir, Bogura district BNP Vice-President Mir Shahe Alam, former Bogura BNP MP Mosharraf Hossain, BNP Executive Committee Assistant Secretary Anisur Rahman Talukder Khokon, DAB central committee  Joint Secretary General and Dhaka Metropolitan North President Professor Dr. Sarkar Mahmub Ahmed Shamim, among others, were present. 

The organizers of this event are Fazle Rahman (Pinak), Sheikh Sadek, Dalia Binte Lakuria, Ariful Islam Ujjal, Shakil Chowdhury, Abdus Samad Raj, Fahidul Alam (Farhad), Anjana Alam, Monowar Hossain, Alam Shimu, Shafiul Alam Murad, Kamruzzaman Chowdhury and Tuhin Mollah.

In a Facebook post the NCP Convener Nahid Islam today said, “The Liberation War is a foundational pillar of the Bangladeshi state. Our vision is guided by the ideals of equality, justice, and human dignity as upheld in 1971 and reflected in the aspirations of the 2024 mass uprising.”

The NCP, in the statement, reflected its uncompromising stance against authoritarian rule. “The abolition of the fascist order and the establishment of a new political settlement is NCP’s foremost political duty,” Nahid said.

He added, “The first step toward dismantling fascism is the fundamental reforms of the state and the drafting of a new constitution.”

According to the NCP, such reforms are essential in laying the foundation of a truly democratic and participatory republic. The party believes that without these changes, justice, accountability, and inclusive governance will remain unattainable.

NCP emphasized respect for religious diversity, advocating for harmony without endorsing either secularist or theocratic ideologies. “We honor the spiritual beliefs of all citizens,” the statement read, “and recognize Islam—the religion of the majority—for its moral and humanistic values. 

"At the same time, we are committed to protect the religious, cultural, and civic rights of minority faiths and ethnic communities," read the statement.

The party also underscored its historical continuity with anti-colonial and anti-caste struggles involving Bengali Hindus and Muslims.

Rejecting sectarian divisions, the NCP clarified, “We do not adopt either secularist or theocratic ideologies as our standard. Rather, our goal is to build an inclusive democratic state through religious coexistence, harmony, and mutual responsibility.”

It also pledged protection of minority rights and recognition of Islam's ethical values as practiced by the majority.

On national identity, the NCP proposed a shift from communal to civilization markers. “We adopt a civilizational national identity that reflects the plural cultural heritage of the Bengal delta,” the statement noted.

The party’s socio-economic vision includes commitments to education, public health, agriculture, urban management, labor rights, and employment. The NCP also proposed the creation of a “Bay of Bengal-centered economic zone” positioning Bangladesh as a regional hub.

Women’s empowerment was listed as a core priority. “One of our fundamental principles is the dignity and empowerment of women,” the party said, outlining commitments to ensuring women’s access to education, healthcare, security, leadership opportunities, and employment. 

Promising measures to secure women’s rights in inheritance, education, leadership, and safety, NCP also pledged to advocate for “fair inheritance rights for women under family law. 

In foreign policy, the NCP took a strong position against regional dominance. “Indian hegemony and Hindutva pose a cultural and geopolitical threat to Bangladesh,” the statement warned. “We will take a firm political stand against such dominance and promote strategic relationships based on justice, dignity, and national interest.” 

The NCP envisions an egalitarian socio-economic system free from corruption and rooted in justice. Key policy areas include education, public health, agriculture, climate policy, urban management, labor rights, and employment. 

The party also proposed the development of a new economic zone centered around the Bay of Bengal, with Bangladesh as its hub. 

The NCP’s statement signals a transformative political ambition aimed at redefining the state structure, rooting governance in justice, and building a Bangladesh that reflects the ideals of its people’s historic struggles.

"All officials and employees of the social welfare department must work sincerely for the welfare and rights of deprived women," she said while exchanging views with social welfare department officials and local dignitaries as the chief guest at the Circuit House here.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ruhul Amin chaired the programme, while Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare Dr Md Mahiuddin, Superintendent of Police Dr Farhad Hossain, Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Rifat Asma, Deputy Director of the District Social Welfare Department Md Omar Faruque, Family Welfare Officer Dr Baby Tripura, and women leader Nirupama Dewan, among others, were present.

The adviser said the ministry would work to ensure similar rights and facilities for women in the hilly areas as in other districts across the country.

She called upon relevant officials and staff to accelerate the activities of the social welfare and cooperative departments in the hilly districts.

The Cultural Advisor said these at a press conference at Chattogram Circuit House here today.

Secretary to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Md. Mofidur Rahman and Deputy Commissioner of Chattogram Farida Khanam were present.
 
Faruki said various initiatives are being taken for the Zia Museum which remained closed for the last 16 years. He also informed that the budget of the museum has been doubled since he took charge.

Talking to journalists after visiting the museum the advisor highlighted the government's focus on cultural activities.

He said, "We are a government of few days. Our main focus is to work on big areas of culture.

“This year, we have arranged ever biggest New Year celebration after independence. Eid celebrations were held on the moon night and Buddhist Purnima was also celebrated most auspiciously,” he said.

“The main reason for this is that the culture of Bangladesh should become the culture of all Bangladeshis, not specific groups. We are working towards that goal,” he said.
 
Highlighting the heritage of Chattogram, Cultural Advisor Mustafa Sarwar Faruqui mentioned that "Jabbarer Boli Khela is a significant part of the country's culture. When you think of Chattogram, Jabbarer Boli Khela comes to mind. From next year, the Ministry of Culture will be associated with Jabbarer Boli Khela and Sampan Baich.”

Faruki emphasized the importance of showcasing the local events without any government assistance. He said Jabbarer Boli khela and Sampan Baich are elements of country's cultural heritage.

The advisor said the Sampan is a most glorious symbol of Chattogram heritage. Just like yellow taxis of New York City. Culture of Chattogram cannot be imagined without sampan.
 
“Therefore, I have tasked the Shilpakala Academy to prepare a list of the festivals.  Once the list is completed, we will include them in our calendar and  provide support from Dhaka,” he added.

The party standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, while addressing a rally in Khulna city, also warned the government of growing public discontent and potential unrest if a general election was not held within the promised timeline.

The rally titled ‘Establishing Youth Rights’ was organised by Chhatra Dal, Juba Dal, and Swechchhasebak Dal at Khulna Circuit House ground in the afternoon.

‘In this country, it now seems that all ports and corridors fall under the authority of the government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus. We don’t know what contracts you have signed abroad. Are you planning to hand over our seaports, river ports, and corridors to foreign powers without any transparency? What authority do you have? Your only mandate is to organise a fair, neutral, and transparent general election,’ Salahuddin said.

The BNP leader urged the government to complete necessary electoral reforms without any delay and to hold the national election within December 2025.

The rally saw a high turnout from leaders and activists across the Khulna and Barisal divisions.

Referring to the National Citizen Party, Salahuddin criticized the composition of the interim government’s cabinet and said that the government was widely perceived as an ‘NCP-style government’.

‘Two of your advisers are known to be affiliated with the NCP. Though not officially, everyone knows it. It’s an open secret. If you want to maintain neutrality, ask them to resign. If they refuse, you must remove them,’ he said, drawing the chief adviser’s attention.

Salahuddin also condemned the appointment of a foreign national as the National Security Adviser, questioning the government’s judgement.

‘You’ve appointed a foreign citizen to oversee our national security. Have you lost all sense? That adviser is trying to turn Bangladesh into a battlefield, using the pretext of a so-called Rohingya or humanitarian corridor,’ he said.

Salahuddin said that the adviser must be removed. ‘He should resign or be dismissed.’

‘No foreign citizen should be entrusted with responsibilities related to national security,’ the BNP leader said.

‘I remain prepared to exercise my rights as a Bangladeshi citizen to the fullest extent,’ the national security adviser told UNB when his attention was drawn to a recent allegation by Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Salahuddin Ahmed that Rahman is a foreign citizen.

Speaking at a press conference on Saturday evening, he said: “It seems to us that the candidate of the paddy sheaf is being treated unfairly. The case was against the boat symbol’s candidate, Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh.

“Who can now oppose this case on their behalf? That would make them allies of those defendants, wouldn’t it? I blame those collaborators—I won’t blame anyone else.”

He added, “I urge all responsible parties to implement the court’s verdict without delay.”

Supporters of Ishraque—son of the late mayor of undivided Dhaka City Corporation Sadeque Hossain Khoka—have been demonstrating since Wednesday demanding he be handed the mayoral duties.

Since then, the DSCC Nagar Bhaban has remained practically inactive.

On Saturday, the protesters marched towards the Secretariat in a renewed push.

Following the demonstration, they declared Local Government Advisor Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain “unwelcome” at Nagar Bhaban.

That day, Ishraque also sent a letter to the Local Government Division, asking it to take “necessary steps” to arrange his swearing-in as mayor. He later held a press conference in the evening.

When asked whether he had any conflict with the local government advisor, Ishraque said: “I have no personal conflict or personal relationship with the local government advisor or any other advisor.

“We haven’t even met 99 percent of the advisers, nor do we know them. So the question is completely irrelevant.”

Ishraque was asked if he blamed any political party for the delay.

“I’m not blaming any political party, individual or government,” he replied. “We are simply seeking a resolution.”

Referring to the details of the verdict, Ishraque said: “It has been 20 days since the gazette was published. Yet, no steps have been taken by the current government to administer my oath.

He added, “By current government, I mean the Local Government Division, to which the directive was sent by the Election Commission (EC) along with the gazette.

“After it was sent, the actions it [Local Government Division] took have been described by many as illegal from a legal standpoint. It wrote a counter letter to the EC, attempting to reference multiple points, questioning whether an appeal would be made.

“In response, the Election Commission provided a detailed legal explanation of how and why it reached the decision and published the gazette.

“Despite receiving this, the local government ministry has sent yet another letter, clearly stalling the process.”

Ishraque believes “there is a government within the government, which is now acting with party bias and working according to its policies to benefit a specific political party”.

“You’ll notice another thing in this — a statement was issued by [the National Citizen Party], where it claims to have reviewed the verdict. It even criticised the judge, which is deeply regrettable,” he said.

“I want to ask — if the NCP represents a post-uprising government or the product of a mass movement, then what was my role? Was I on Sheikh Hasina’s side? Didn’t I fight enough against Sheikh Hasina? Did I enjoy political benefits under her?” Ishraque asked.

“They are against me simply because I am the BNP-nominated paddy sheaf candidate,” he said. “They want to appoint their loyalists as administrators and extract political gains during the upcoming elections.

“They are now blocking me so they can continue the ongoing financial plunder centred around Nagar Bhaban — in contracts, billing and everything else,” he added.

Speaking virtually from London at an event on Saturday night, he said: “It will not be easy to confront the fallen fugitive dictator unless a government accountable to the people through their vote is established.”

Tarique expressed hope that the caretaker administration, “free from greed and temptation”, would fulfil its duty by promptly announcing the national election date and upholding the rights of the people of Bangladesh.

He criticised the government for failing to respond to repeated calls from political parties, including the BNP, for an election roadmap.

“Instead, the government seems to have trapped the clear announcement of the election date behind a clever condition of minor or major reforms,” Tarique said.

“The public remains unaware of the interim government’s plans, which is likely contributing to growing political unrest,” he added.

The BNP leader pointed to visible signs of instability both inside and outside the government, just 10 months into its tenure. “We’re seeing people from different walks of life gathering on the streets with several demands every day.”

He warned that if the government fails to recognise and respond to the people’s hopes and demands, the unrest will deepen, making governance increasingly challenging.

“We call on the interim government to be cautious about its capabilities,” he said.

She said a group of miscreants attacked the forest officials while they were protecting the land from illegal encroachment.

"It is our collective responsibility to ensure the safety of those who are working to protect our environment," the secretary added. 

Dr Farhina Ahmed made these remarks while visiting injured Beat Officer Mohidur Rahman at the Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital this morning.

She urged law enforcement agencies to swiftly identify and bring the attackers to justice.

During the visit, the secretary inquired about Mohidur Rahman's condition and directed the hospital authorities to ensure proper treatment.

Joint Secretary (Forest) Shamima Begum, Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hosain Chowdhury, and other senior officials were also present.

According to a ministry press release, Beat Officer Mohidur Rahman Joy and four other forest staff were injured in an attack by miscreants on Thursday while resisting an illegal land grab attempt in the Savar Sub-Beat area at Chhoto Kaliakoir, Savar.

"My father is fine now...It will take several more days for his complete recovery," daughter of the veteran BNP leader Dr. Shamaruh Mirza told BSS over phone today.

She said as per advice of the physicians Fakhrul is in full rest.

Asked about Fakhrul's return to the country, she said, "Whenever his physicians consider him risk-free, we will decide on his return to Bangladesh.

 I and my mother (Rahat Ara Begum) are by my father's side all the time”.

Dr Shamaruh Mirza, who is living in Australia with her spouse, requested the countrymen to pray for her father’s speedy recovery. 

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir underwent a successful surgery on his left eye at Bangkok's Rutnin Eye Hospital on May 14.

Meanwhile, BNP Standing Committee Member Prof. Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain said BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia and Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman are constantly monitoring the BNP Secretary General's medical condition.

Talking to UNB, some senior BNP leaders said nine months after the interim government's formation, its lack of focus on elections and controversial moves—such as allowing human corridors to Rakhine and outsourcing port operations—have raised doubts about its true intentions.

In such a situation, they said the party rank and file is mounting pressure to take to the streets to force the government to announce a clear election roadmap and hold the election within this year.

A BNP leader, wishing to remain anonymous, said the party fears that the ban on activities of the Awami League, growing conflicts  among the National Citizen Party (NCP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, increasing unnecessary street protests, and a slide in the law and order situation may complicate the political scenario in the country in the days to come.

He said they are also concerned about the new political polarisation and its impact on the national election following the ban on the Awami League’s activities until the completion of its trial and that of its leaders.

The BNP leader said they suspect that the ban on the Awami League’s activities and the suspension of the party’s registration with the Election Commission may be part of a ploy by local and international actors to prolong the power of the interim government.

He said their last standing committee meeting discussed the issues of election and reforms, and most members voiced frustration over the lack of visible progress toward holding the election.

The BNP leader said they also discussed the growing pressure from grassroots leaders and activists to launch a movement demanding the government hold the election by December this year.

Three BNP Standing Committee members have recently expressed both concern and anger over the delay in the election.

On 12 May, senior BNP leader Mirza Abbas alleged that many dubious foreigners are arriving in Bangladesh, accusing the interim government of serving the interests of others rather than the people of the country.

He also accused the government of orchestrating various incidents to divert public attention from its misdeeds.

Abbas also alleged that a deliberate effort is underway to eliminate their party, claiming that pro-BNP officials are being replaced by those loyal to the Awami League or Jamaat-e-Islami in the administration and other key government offices.

A day earlier, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said that their party had on various occasions demanded that the Awami League, as a party, be brought under trial, but the government had not paid any heed.

“Had the Chief Adviser taken the matter into consideration at that time, it would not have led to the embarrassing situation of the last two days (demonstration at Shahbagh),” he added.

Claiming that people across the country are eager to vote in the next parliamentary elections, the BNP leader said, “For that, we have called upon the Chief Adviser to announce a roadmap for the next election soon. Otherwise, such an embarrassing situation may arise again.”

On 13 May, BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said their party had already made it clear that they are ready to implement any reform proposals agreed upon through political consensus.

“So, why is the delay? Why cannot we know where the consensus stands? We have all submitted our proposals. We are waiting to see where the consensus is. But we still cannot know where it lies. Why the hesitation in stating that?” he said.

“You cannot hold the people hostage and then talk about reforms solely to serve the interests of a select few. There is no longer any scope in Bangladesh to impose anything by force while excluding the people. That time is over,” he said.

The BNP leader lamented that those who once hid in fear of Sheikh Hasina are now lecturing others on reforms.

“Every now and then, new issues are brought forward, reforms are dragged out, and the overall situation is kept in a state of flux. It appears to be part of a larger conspiracy to defer elections indefinitely,” a member of the BNP Standing Committee told UNB on condition of anonymity.

He said their party is now holding youth rallies in all divisions to drum up support and encourage the new generation to become involved in BNP politics.

“Our youth rally will be held on 28 May with a massive showdown in Dhaka. From that rally, the BNP will send out a strong message to the government not to unnecessarily delay the election,” the BNP leader said.

Contacted, BNP Standing Committee Member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy said they are observing a move to delay the election on various pretexts, including the reform process.

“Delaying the elections could create further instability and give the Awami League time to reorganise and create chaos in the country. If elections are delayed, the situation may spiral out of control,” he warned.

The BNP leader said although the interim government’s role should be to restore the people’s mandate, it seems to lack genuine interest in doing so.

He urged the government to come up with a clear electoral roadmap as soon as possible. “The people—especially the youth—want to vote. A fair BNP-Election

to be held, and the reforms must be completed quickly.”

The order was issued in a letter from the National Cyber Security Agency on Tuesday, a day after the government imposed a ban on the party’s political, organisational, and digital activities under the Anti-Terrorism Act, pending trial at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).

The letter includes a list of URLs connected to the Awami League’s presence on platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Telegram, and X, with instructions for immediate takedown.

Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, the chief advisor’s special assistant on ICT, confirmed the directive to bdnews24.com. He said the BTRC was instructed to act in accordance with the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, and Section 8(2) of the Cyber Security Act.

The BTRC has also been asked to notify relevant technology companies to disable the party’s accounts hosted on their platforms.

The move follows the government’s official notification banning all Awami League activities — including rallies, processions, conferences, and publications — across physical and digital platforms.

The cyber agency’s letter cited the government ban and the Election Commission’s decision to suspend the party’s political registration as the basis for the directive.

Quoting Section 8(2) of the Cyber Security Act, the letter stated: “If law-enforcing agencies, upon analysing digital content, believe there is a threat to the country’s integrity, security, defence, or public order — or that the content incites violence, criminal activity, or promotes religious, communal, or ethnic hatred — they may remove or block the content, or request BTRC to do so through the Director General.”

He reaffirmed that while the Liberation War of 1971 remains the defining moment in Bangladesh’s history, the July Uprising of 2024 was “unprecedented” in its scale and nature.

Riaz, a professor of politics and government at Illinois State University, made the remarks during an interview on bdnews24.com’s flagship discussion programme Inside Out. He had previously served as the head of the interim government’s Constitutional Reform Commission.

Rejecting the claim that Aug 5 marked a “second independence,” Riaz said: “Some have called it that, but I disagree. Personally, I say no — 1971 stands above everything else.”

Though many view the July Uprising as revolutionary, Riaz insists on calling it a mass uprising, not a revolution.

“There’s no need to deny or replace the Liberation War. But we must also acknowledge that what happened in 2024 was unprecedented — and we arrived there through a continuity of history,” he said.

NO PLAN TO ‘EXCLUDE 1971’

In a recent dialogue with the Consensus Commission, the Gono Forum expressed concern that proposed constitutional reforms might “exclude” the Liberation War. Riaz dismissed the worry as a misunderstanding.

“If we wanted to exclude 1971, then what would become of the Constitution’s core values — equality, human dignity, and social justice?” he said. “Nothing is being replaced.”

He emphasised that while political parties are entitled to interpret reforms from their own perspectives, there is no intent to sideline 1971.

“The goal is not to diminish the significance of the Liberation War, nor to underplay 2024. But drawing direct comparisons weakens both.”

He added that the 2024 uprising differed significantly from the 1990 movement, as it stemmed from a desire to reshape the state structure, not just remove a regime.

REFORM TALKS: BROAD AGREEMENT, DIVERGING DETAILS

The National Consensus Commission, led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, is currently conducting dialogue with political parties on reforms to the Constitution, electoral laws, public administration, and the judiciary.

On Inside Out, Riaz revealed that the first phase of discussions is nearing completion, and that a consensus document will be drafted after the second round.

“There is consensus on many issues at the policy level,” he said. “Nearly all political parties agree that institutional reforms are necessary — covering the Constitution, electoral process, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the judiciary, and public administration.”

However, differences remain on how to implement those reforms.

For instance, on judicial independence, parties agree in principle but propose differing methods.

On Article 70 of the Constitution, which strips MPs of their seats if they vote against party lines, Riaz said there is strong consensus that the provision must be revised.

“To give MPs greater freedom, Article 70 needs to be changed — and there is broad agreement on that.”

He also pointed to common ground on the need for more effective and autonomous functioning of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

“Everyone acknowledges that the ACC must be made more independent and proactive. Electoral reform also enjoys broad support.”

While divergences in approach remain, Riaz said such differences are natural given the ideological diversity among parties.

“Despite varying ideologies, there is a shared recognition that reforms are essential — and that’s where the common ground lies.”

‘MISUNDERSTANDING’ PLURALISM

The reform commissions’ reports proposed changes to the state’s foundational principles, the official name of the country, and the parliamentary framework.

While the current Constitution enshrines nationalism, socialism, democracy, and secularism as state principles, the commission has recommended replacing them with equality, human dignity, social justice, pluralism, and democracy.

Among these, the inclusion of “pluralism” has drawn objections from religion-based political parties, who claim the term conflicts with Islamic values.

Commenting on the matter, Riaz said: “There appears to be a misunderstanding here. Many seem to view this term strictly through a religious lens, with some interpreting pluralism as being opposed to monotheism.

“But the Constitutional Reform Commission did not approach it from that angle.”

He noted that the global understanding of secularism has significantly evolved over the decades.

“Even in Bangladesh, we’ve seen that the notion of secularism has sometimes caused confusion,” he said.

Riaz added, “We are in fact a pluralistic society—ethnic, linguistic and social diversity exists here. The question is whether we are bringing everyone under equal security, equality and dignity. That is why we mentioned pluralism.”

He said the issues are being reviewed in light of discussions held with the political parties.

“Many political parties we’ve spoken to said they understand the rationale. But they also highlight our current social and political realities,” the political analyst added.

“We’re not living in an ideal society. Some have suggested that even if the essence is retained, the terminology might be reconsidered.

“We are listening to those suggestions, and the discussions are in progress.”

The reform commission’s chief justified the proposed removal of “secularism” from the Constitution by arguing that both its academic meaning and practical application have shifted.

“There is now an effort to address broader social inequalities, which is not limited to religious neutrality,” he said.

He pointed out that Bangladesh’s Constitution has recognised “secularism” as a state ideal for only 17 years in total, meaning it has been absent for the majority of the country’s history.

“The kinds of challenges often associated with its absence were also present when it was in place,” he said.

“We tend to focus only on religion when considering the protection of minorities, but many are marginalised in other social ways as well.

“So the idea of dropping secularism stems from the need to expand the concept and make it more inclusive.”

Riaz also noted that the four original principles adopted in 1972 — including secularism — were, in fact, introduced by a single political party.

According to him, “Before the Constituent Assembly committee began drafting the Constitution, the Awami League’s working committee decided those would be the state’s guiding principles.

“But the Liberation War was not fought by one party alone. It was a people’s war involving numerous forces, individuals, and political parties.”

He said the Constituent Assembly in 1972 failed to fully reflect those broader voices.

“Among the four founding principles, only secularism is universally applicable. The inclusion of ‘Bengali nationalism’ ignores the contributions of non-Bengali communities in the war.

“Considering all these factors, it was viewed as a package,” he added.

Riaz emphasised that three of the newly proposed principles — equality, human dignity, and social justice — are drawn directly from the Proclamation of Independence of Bangladesh.

“This was the founding promise of the Bangladeshi state. Our goal is to return to the spirit of 1971,” he said.

The case was lodged on the night of Wednesday, May 14, at the Kotwali Model Police Station by Marzuk Abdullah, Senior Joint Member Secretary of the Barishal District unit of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.

According to investigating officer SI Manik Chandra Saha, the case alleges that the accused carried out an attack following an explosion on July 26, 2024. The incident reportedly took place on the road adjacent to the Christian Missionary Charitable Organisation, located on the west side of Government Hatem Ali College in Barishal city. The case has been recorded as Case No. 37, dated May 14, 2025.

Among the accused are former Mayor of Barishal City Corporation Abul Khair Abdullah Khokon Serniabat and his wife Luna Abdullah; General Secretary of the Metropolitan Awami League and Abul Hasanat Abdullah’s elder son, Serniabat Sadiq Abdullah; former Member of Parliament Jebunnesa Afroz; and senior Awami League leader Amir Hossain Amu.

Other notable individuals named in the case include former Zilla Parishad Chairman AKM Jahangir, Gournadi Upazila Awami League General Secretary and former Municipal Mayor Harisur Rahman, District Chhatra League leader Sajjad Serniabat, former Upazila Chairman Monirul Islam Chhobi, and former Zilla Parishad member Shahidul Islam, also known as Italy Shahid.

A High Court division bench of Justice Md Khasruzzaman passed the order, allowing Dr Zubaida Rahman bail till the disposal of the appeal matter. The court gave the order after accepting Dr Zubaida Rahman's appeal petition for hearing.

The High Court also sought documents of the case from the lower court concerned and stayed Dr Zubaida’s fine. Senior advocate SM Shahjahan, Barrister AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon and Barrister Kaiser Kamal today argued for Dr Zubaida Rahman, while senior advocate Asif Hassan stood for the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

The High Court on May 13 condoned Dr Zubaida Rahman for her 578 days of delay in filing the appeal against the lower court conviction and three-year jail sentence in the graft case.

The ACC filed the case with the city's Kafrul Police Station against three, including Tarique Rahman and Zubaida Rahman, for amassing illegal wealth and concealing information about the properties.

On August 2, 2023, Dhaka Metropolitan Senior Special Judge Md Asaduzzaman sentenced Tarique Rahman to nine years and Zubaida Rahman to three years in prison in the case.

However, the Ministry of Home Affairs suspended Zubaida Rahman's sentence for one year on September 22, 2024.

In a post on his verified Facebook page, he wrote, "The local government's goal is to ensure the right to education for the children of the Harijan community and to provide them with medical facilities."

The adviser further said, "Although a six-storey residential building was allocated for the sanitation workers of the city's Ganaktuli Sweeper Colony, they could not move in due to previous political realities."

The Dhaka South City Corporation, in coordination with the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, took swift action to free the residence from encroachment and hand it over to the Harijan community.

In another Facebook post, the adviser expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of Dhaka University (DU) student Shahriar Alam Shammo, who was stabbed near Suhrawardy Udyan late on May 13.

"So far, three suspects have been arrested. The killers must be brought to justice," he added.

"I have already spoken to the Dhaka University (DU) administration, the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), and other relevant authorities. As per the advice of the university administration, the Udyan will be turned into a safe place very soon," he said.

"I will take responsibility and ensure that Suhrawardy Udyan becomes a safe space. I seek the cooperation of university students and the administration in this regard," Asif Mahmud added.

Fakhrul made the demand in a post on his verified Facebook page on Wednesday (May 14) morning.

In his post, he wrote: “He will never stand tall again, never attend another concert, never dance to music, never dream again, or think about his future.”

He added: “This was not just the murder of one person — it was the death of thousands of dreams. We demand justice for our son Shammo. We demand justice for the killing of our child. The interim government must answer for this.”

On Tuesday (May 13) around midnight, Shammo (25) was stabbed by assailants in Suhrawardy Udyan. He was critically injured and taken to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where doctors declared him dead at around 12:15 am.

Shammo was a student of the 2018–19 academic session at the Institute of Education and Research (IER) of Dhaka University. He also served as the literary and publications secretary of the Sir AF Rahman Hall unit of Chhatra Dal.

The thunderclap follows a sweeping ban by the interim government — a decree that silences every chant, cancels every rally, and forbids even a whisper from the party that once claimed credit for the nation’s birth and ruled it for over two decades.

The Awami League, led by the now-deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, is no longer just out of power — it is outlawed, prosecuted, and cast into political limbo under accusations of crimes against humanity.

THE BAN, THE BLOW, THE SILENCE

On Monday afternoon, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a blanket ban on all Awami League activities — online, offline, on paper, and in procession.

By nightfall, the EC had convened in Dhaka’s Nirbachan Bhaban. The verdict: registration suspended.

“The government’s ban compelled our decision,” said EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed. “We followed the law.”

With registration No 006 (dated 03/11/2008) now dormant, the once-mighty party has been struck from the nation’s democratic framework.

The boat — its iconic election symbol — will no longer sail.

FROM KINGMAKER TO DEFENDANT

The party of nation's independence hero Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Awami League has now been named in a war crimes tribunal. The same court that condemned Jamaat-e-Islami’s wartime atrocities is now preparing to try the Awami League for its violent crackdown on the July Uprising — a student-led rebellion that toppled Hasina’s government – in just eight months.

The tribunal’s prosecutors accuse the former premier of orchestrating massacres, cover-ups, and command-level crimes against her own people.

“Sheikh Hasina is identified as the mastermind,” Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam declared.

The sweeping charges — killings, shootings, body burnings — span the country’s bloodstained map from July to August 2024.

A REVOLUTION REWRITES THE FUTURE

The tide turned on Aug 5, 2024, when the streets exploded and students roared. Eight months after forming government for an unprecedented fourth straight term, Hasina was forced to step down amid public outrage after a movement to reform quotas in government jobs snowballed into a popular campaign to end her rule.

Three days later, on Aug 8, the interim administration took charge with Muhammad Yunus at the helm.

Fast forward to Sunday, and the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act was amended to allow prosecution of political parties. On Monday, the electoral hammer fell.

ERASED FROM THE BALLOT, EXILED FROM THE NATION

From 1949 to 2024, the Awami League stood as a pillar of the nation’s identity. It led the independence movement, built the republic, and governed it six times — three of those without viable opposition.

But the final chapter was written not in the ballot box, but in blood and resistance.

Critics long accused the party of ruling by manipulation — winning elections unopposed, sealing ballots before sunrise, bending the bureaucracy to its will.

In the 2024 election, it resorted to fielding dummy independents to dodge accusations of one-party rule.

Still, voter turnout sank. Legitimacy eroded. And in the fires of a student revolution, the party crumbled.

FROM LEGACY TO LIABILITY

The law that Hasina’s government once promised to use against Jamaat now turns on her own party. The same street where Ganajagaran Mancha once demanded justice for 1971 war crimes now rings with slogans condemning the Awami League.

Once, the Awami League banished its enemies. Now, it joins them.

With its registration suspended, its leaders indicted, and its voice silenced, the party that helped birth a nation must now fight for its own survival in a courtroom — if it ever hopes to return to the streets, the polls, or the pages of Bangladesh’s future.

ALL BUT SNUFFED OUT

After a meeting on Monday evening, the EC Secretary Akhtar confirmed the decision: the path to elections has been shut for one of the country’s oldest political parties, which remained in power for more than two decades across six terms.

A gazette notification issued by the commission said since the government has banned all activities of the Awami League and its associate, affiliated, and like-minded organisations under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the Commission is suspending the party’s registration (No. 006, dated 03/11/2008) as a political organisation.

Under pressure from the National Citizen Party (NCP), which was formed by student leaders of the July Uprising, as well as from Jamaat-e-Islami and other religion-based parties, the Advisory Council decided on Saturday to ban all activities of the Awami League until its trial is over.

The government issued a gazette on Sunday amending the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, paving the way to prosecute the Awami League for “crimes against humanity” in its crackdown on the July movement.

The ban order followed on Monday afternoon.

The directive said: “Until the tribunal concludes its proceedings, all forms of publications, media activity, online and social media campaigns, processions, meetings, rallies, and conferences by the Awami League and all its affiliated, allied and like-minded organisations are hereby prohibited.”

Soon after the ban order, the EC convened a meeting at 5:45pm at the Nirbachan Bhaban, or Election Building, in the capital's Agargaon. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin chaired the meeting where the suspension of the party’s registration was finalised.

The meeting was attended, among others, by Election Commissioners Anwarul Islam, Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed, along with the CEC.

According to the Representation of the People Order (RPO), the registration of a banned political party can be revoked.

The EC introduced party registration rules ahead of the ninth parliamentary election in 2008.

Over the past 17 years, 55 parties have been registered with the commission, though the registrations of five parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, have been cancelled for several reasons.

With the Awami League suspended, 49 parties remain on the EC’s register.

PRELUDE

Before the government issued the ban on Monday, the International Crimes Tribunal's probe agency filed a report in the afternoon, bringing five charges of "crimes against humanity" against the Awami League government in its attempt to quell the mass uprising in July and August last year..

After submitting the report, Chief Prosecutor Tajul said: “Within six months and 28 days of starting the investigation, the investigating officer probed the crimes against humanity, killings, shootings, and acts like the burning of bodies that occurred nationwide during the July Uprising. Based on the findings, the report identifies Sheikh Hasina as the mastermind and superior commander who gave the orders [for the atrocities].”

The demands for banning the Awami League had been raised by the leaders of the Anti-discrimination Student Movement from the very beginning.

The movement to remove the Awami League from the political landscape gained momentum on Thursday, following former president Abdul Hamid's departure from the country.

On Thursday night, a group of protesters led by Hasnat Abdullah, chief organiser of the NCP's southern unit, staged a sit-in outside Yunus’s official residence, State Guest House Jamuna.

The demonstration drew support from the Jamaat-e-Islami and its student front Islami Chhatra Shibir, AB Party, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Hifazat-e Islam, and student groups affiliated with the Anti-discrimination Student Movement.

DOORS TO ELECTION SHUT

Formed on Jun 23, 1949, the Awami League spent 75 years in the political arena, retaining power for a quarter of a century. After leading the struggle for independence, the party won the election for the first time in 1973, helmed by Bangabandhu.

The party was plunged into extreme uncertainty when Shiekh Mujib and his family were killed in 1975. After spending several years abroad, Hasina’s elder daughter took charge of the party.

After a lengthy break, the Awami League won the election in 1996 under the leadership of Hasina before losing in 2001 when the BNP took over.

The party suffered another setback when Hasina was arrested during the army-backed caretaker government. But it bounced back to clinch victory in the 2009 general election.

Then, maintaining its formidable power and disregarding all criticism, the party secured a single majority in the following three elections, despite the absence of opposition parties and voters.

In 2014, when the BNP boycotted the election, the Awami League candidates won unopposed in more than half the constituencies, which never faded from the minds of many.

In the following national elections of 2018, the BNP agreed to take part, but the Awami League won, allegedly by sealing the ballots the night before the election. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is investigating the allegations after the interim government took over.

To stem the tide of criticism, the Awami League adopted a new strategy to avoid being elected unopposed in the 2024 elections.

Party leaders without nominations were allowed to run as independent candidates to ensure that Awami League candidates are not alone in any constituency. Nonetheless, the ruling party struggled to draw voters to the centres.

Despite numerous questions raised both domestically and internationally over issues like the “night vote” and low voter turnout, the Awami League remained in power.

However, following its ouster amid overwhelming dissent from students and citizens, the Awami League now faces the greatest uncertainty in its lengthy time in the political arena as the latest series of events unfolded the party’s greatest challenge yet.

The party also demanded that the assets of the Awami League-led 14-Party Alliance be seized and their political operations outlawed.

The NCP leaders presented their demands in a press conference outside the party’s temporary office in Banglamotor at 8pm on Monday.

NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain said, “On the 5th of August, the people of Bangladesh made a political decision to reject the fascist Awami League. We urged the government to turn that decision into a law.

“We welcome the action taken [on Monday] against the Awami League for its role in ‘genocide’.”

He added, "But the trial of the Awami League's ghosts and collaborators is still not visibly under way.

“We urge the authorities to ensure that police arrest all Awami League leaders and members, and those from its associate bodies, wherever they are found.”

Calling for the seizure of property of all those under the proposed ban, the NCP leader said: “For the last 16 years, the Awami League has deprived the people of their voting rights, amassed capital, and laundered the nation’s wealth.

“The ill-got assets of the Awami League and its allies should be confiscated and used for the country’s welfare.”

On the “sluggish” progress of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), he said: “The tribunal does not have the capacity to handle cases against the Awami League.

“We call on the interim government to make necessary arrangements to enable the tribunal to function effectively.”

Referring to the government’s 30-working-day timeline outlined in the July Proclamation, Akhtar warned that if the process stretches into the 31st working day, the people of Bangladesh will take to the streets again.

On the July proclamation, NCP Chief Coordinator Nasir Uddin Patwary said: “Those who still operate as the ghosts of the Awami League in the Secretariat, schools, colleges, universities, cantonments, and other institutions — those who still work for the Mujibist ideology — I issue this final warning: come to your senses; look at the blood of the martyrs.

“If you wish to continue living in Bangladesh, you must abandon the Mujibist ideology and come down to the side of the people.”

To the political parties, Nasir said, “Those who joined the mass uprising on the 5th of August — today, political ambitions have taken precedence over the nation. We ask them to come to their senses.

“We don’t want any other party to meet the same fate as the Awami League,” he added. “Sign the July Proclamation and present it to the people without delay.

“Or declare publicly that you reject it — but say it to the people, and be judged in their court.”

Calling for the trial of the Awami League’s alliance partners, he said: “For 15 years, the 14-Party Alliance rode on the back of this regime and helped steal votes. They were partners in loot, collaborators in murder.”

Nasir said: “We urge the Election Commission to ban the 14-Party Alliance before the people march towards the commission as they did towards the [State Guest House] Jamuna.”

He also warned those in the cultural arena who supported the Awami League. “For 15 years, fascist elements from Kolkata and Delhi infiltrated our culture. They used drama and film to betray the people by labelling Islamic communities as militants.

“If the interim government cannot put them on trial, we will do so in the people’s court,” he said.

Nasir said removing the Awami League also meant “erasing the 1972 Mujibist Constitution”.

“We want to write a new Constitution with the blood of the people’s Uprising — of farmers, workers, labourers, porters.”

He added, “We don’t want any amendment games. A new Constitution must be drafted through a Constituent Assembly election.

“Everyone, especially students and the youth, must stay united and alert to defeat Mujibist forces politically, culturally, and economically.”

NCP Senior Joint Coordinator Samantha Sharmin said, “We believe this gazette was essential to tackle Bangladesh’s fascist structure.

“The Awami League’s collaborators who are still in the country have attacked our leaders and activists, their homes, and even their parents. Their assets remain untouched.

“The 15-year grip of the Awami League will not be undone in just a day.

“Through the issuance of the directive, we have made progress. But the July Proclamation has yet to be enacted. We must remain active on the ground for that.

“Political interference continues to disrupt the tribunal, and we are watching closely,” she added.

The party’s Senior Joint Member Secretary Tasnim Jara said, “[On Monday] we’ve witnessed the first step in dismantling the fascist structure the Awami League built in Bangladesh. Their trial must be ensured.

“Abolishing the fascist structure will be a long-term struggle. We need the people’s support for that.”

He departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport with his wife on a Thai Airways flight around 2:45 am on Tuesday, BNP Media Cell member Shyrul Kabir Khan told BSS.

Khan said doctors at United Hospital in Gulshan recommended urgent retinal surgery following several medical tests. 

On the advice of the doctors, an appointment was made at Rutnin Eye Hospital in Bangkok for the treatment.

Yunus Ali, personal assistant to the BNP Secretary General, said the family has sought prayers from the people and party leaders and activists for his speedy recovery.

Mirza Fakhrul and his wife had last visited Singapore for a health check-up on April 6.

Deputy Commissioner of DB’s media and public relations told BSS that they apprehended Momtaj Begum around 11:30pm.

She was accused of multiple cases of July uprising and will be produced before the court on Tuesday.

The Public Security Division of the Home Ministry published the notification on Monday, prohibiting all forms of organisational activity by the Awami League and its affiliates. This includes rallies, meetings, assemblies, conferences, and any form of publication or engagement through media, online platforms, or social media.

The move follows a decision made during a special session of the Council of Advisers. Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, speaking at a media briefing in front of the State Guest House Jamuna on Saturday, May 10, announced the ban, citing the need to safeguard national security, protect the integrity of the judicial process, and ensure the safety of witnesses and plaintiffs involved in the tribunal proceedings.

Dr Nazrul also revealed that the Council had approved an amendment to the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act. The revised law grants the tribunals authority to prosecute and penalise not just individuals, but also political parties and their affiliated organisations involved in crimes against humanity.

In addition, the Council resolved to finalise and publish the "July Declaration" within the next 30 working days.

This decision came a day after the government, on May 9, announced plans to amend the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act to enable the prosecution of entire organisations linked to war crimes.

The ban aims to protect national security, July Movement activists, and ICT plaintiffs and witnesses. 

Law Adviser Asif Nazrul announced the decision after an emergency meeting at Jamuna state guest house, prompted by protests demanding AL’s ban.

The council approved amendments to the ICT Act, allowing prosecution of political parties and their affiliates. 

All AL activities, including online, will remain suspended during the trial. A formal circular will be issued on the next working day, Asif Nazrul said.

The council also committed to finalising and publishing the July Proclamation within 30 working days. Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam confirmed on Facebook that legal provisions for the ban have been approved.

The decision follows protests in Shahbagh since Thursday, led by the National Citizen Party (NCP), alongside Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam. 

NCP chief Nahid Islam demanded AL be declared a terrorist organization and tried under the ICT Act.

Responding to calls from political parties and civil society over AL’s alleged authoritarianism and violence, Asif Nazrul emphasized that the Anti-Terrorism Act and amendable ICT Act provide legal grounds for the ban. “We are united in taking action against the Awami League,” he said.

"A democratic state cannot be built, nor can human dignity be upheld, without guaranteeing the rights of all citizens," Prof. Riaz told a discussion between the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) and the Commission at the LD Hall of the National Parliament. 

Ali Riaz said, "Only a democratic state can ensure the rights of its citizens, establish the rule of law, and deliver justice to the people through an independent judiciary."

Therefore, the Commission believes that the National Charter, which is being prepared incorporating the opinions of all political parties, will safeguard the rights of all citizens in the coming days, he said. 

For the first time, an opportunity has been created to rebuild the state collectively, Ali Riaz said, adding, "The proposals from the reform commissions that have been given to the political parties and presented before the nation are aimed at creating a concrete path based on consensus."

Ali Riaz also said, "This historic moment has been achieved at the cost of many lives. Everyone must participate actively to make this opportunity a success, and there is hope that all political parties will embrace this aspiration and move forward." 

The United People's Democratic Front was represented by a four-member delegation led by Dhaka region organiser Michael Chakma. Other members of the delegation included party member Sunayan Chakma, Democratic Youth Forum President Zico Tripura, and Greater Chittagong Hill Tracts Student Council President Amal Tripura. 

So far, 28 political parties, including the UPDF, have taken part in discussions with the National Consensus Commission.

Speaking virtually from London at an event in Dhaka on Friday afternoon, he said: “A former president from the time of the fugitive despotic regime has left the country through the airport. The way he [Hamid] left is strikingly similar to how someone else fled on the 5th of August.

“Yet now we hear the interim government claims to know nothing about this departure.”

He added, “The incident occurred [Thursday], and everyone I’ve spoken to since is asking: what exactly does the interim government know?”

"Allegations have emerged that the interim government, under the guise of reform, is deliberately delaying matters—possibly to facilitate the safe departure of autocrats and their allies, while also tactically creating issues to fracture the unity among anti-fascist political parties active on the ground."

Tarique also brought up the issue of constitutional reform. “The BNP has clearly presented its proposal to the interim government on this matter.

“To establish a representative government accountable to the people through their votes, it has continued to extend its cooperation and support to the interim government in every aspect,” he said.

The BNP leader, however, warned that recent developments are causing “doubt”.

“If we observe recent developments, doubts are gradually emerging among different segments of society over whether the interim government is truly demonstrating the capacity to carry out its responsibilities,” he said.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said the campaign will be held from May 15 to Jul 15.

The decision came at a meeting of the committee on the party’s primary membership renewal activities at the BNP's central office in Naya Paltan on Thursday.

Rizvi said, "The renewal and the member enrolment campaign will be held from May 15 to Jul 15.

"To implement the programme nationwide at a fast pace... we have targeted to take in more than 10 million primary members this time."

The BNP gained traction following the fall of the Awami League government in the face of a mass uprising on Aug 5, 2024. The party held an extended meeting on Feb 27 after a gap of seven years.

The party plans to hold a national conference this year, and to this end, committees have been formed across all districts. BNP's last national conference, the 6th National Council, was held on Mar 19, 2016.

Rizvi said, "No regular political activities could be carried out during the Awami League’s fascist era. You witnessed that they frequently attacked this party office and destroyed things needed to run it, like computers, typewriters, fax machines, etc.”

He said, "The institutions that exist for establishing democracy in the country, like political parties, are formed through a fair rule of law. They [Awami League] have relentlessly attacked the opposition parties to completely destroy that rule of law and to maintain the one-party authoritarianism.”

The campaign will help to figure out how many people are interested in the BNP, according to Rizvi.

"We hope that people from all walks of life, who love the BNP and cherish the spirit of nationalism, will be interested in joining the party.”

On a query over whether anyone from the Awami League could join the BNP, he replied: "Why can't those who did politics for a long time or left the Awami League due to the party’s misrule, barbaric activities, looting and money laundering join?”

The aspirants will have to buy the membership form at Tk 20 each and submit it with an application which is mandatory per the BNP’s constitution. These forms will be scrutinised later before enrolling new members, he added.

She said, "Am I a tyrant? Have I killed or extorted? Do I have a record of ever attacking any opposition party in Narayanganj city? Then why and in whose interest am I being arrested?"

A team from Sadar Model Police Station went to Ivy's ancestral home “Chunka Kutir” around 11:30 pm on Thursday to arrest her. Thousands of locals took to the streets immediately after hearing about the police operation.

They started shouting slogans saying they would not let Ivy be arrested and taken away “in the dark of night”. Then, around 5:45am, the three-time mayor left the house in the city's Deobhog area and got into a police car.

As she was being taken away, Ivy said: "Those who are in the current government have talked about equality. You have protested against discrimination. You have put a new government in charge by overthrowing the old government.

"Then why does this discrimination happen? Do we actually value honest politics and honesty?"

When the Awami League government fell in the face of a mass uprising in August, most of the party’s district leaders and activists fled, but Ivy stayed at home. She is the former senior vice president of the district Awami League.

Before getting into the police car, Ivy told reporters: "I was at home, I did not run away. So why was I arrested? I want the people to give me an answer and the people will give it."

When police came to arrest her, Ivy said that she would not go anywhere in the dark of night. She said that if she had to go somewhere, she would go in the morning. In the morning, she voluntarily got into the police car.

Ivy said, "I don't know exactly why I am being taken. When the authorities came to my house, they said that a warrant had been issued against me.

“Although they could not show me the warrant papers, I am still going with them out of respect for the law.

“They came at night - I did not want to leave at night. I regret that the administration workers had to wait all night.”

Thousands of people chanted slogans in favour of the former mayor as she was being taken to a police car. They remained in front of her house overnight and into the morning.

Ivy expressed her gratitude to all of them, saying: “The residents of my neighbourhood were on the streets all night, but they did not cause any unrest. I want to thank them.”

“I am your daughter and I will remember the love and respect you have shown me for a lifetime.”

She said, “I am the daughter of Ali Ahmed Chunka. My father rose above party lines and practised the politics of equality. If I have committed a crime for saying ‘Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu’, then I have no objection to being labelled a criminal for that crime. If I am tried for that, then so be it.”

Ivy became the mayor of Narayanganj City Corporation for the third consecutive time in 2022. After the fall of the Awami League government, 12 city mayors in the country, including Ivy, were removed last August.

The former mayor said, “I have served you in Narayanganj city for 21 years. No one can ever say that I was vengeful towards anyone, hurt another party, or treated anyone in a discriminatory way.”

“I have tried to rise above party lines and work for the people from within my own party.”

He said, “Despite disputes or differences, there is not a single place where I have not protested in favour of the people of this city. I have demanded justice for all the murders, including that of (Tanvir Ahmd) Twaki. Even when the people of Narayanganj were completely silent and no one dared speak up - I raised the city’s voice against injustice.

“I don’t know for what crime, for what oppression that Ivy - who taught the people of this city to speak up, to protest against injustice - is being arrested.”

Addressing the people of Narayanganj, Ivy said: “You have stood by me and my family. Please stand with us in the future too. You all know, that I lost my beloved younger brother Mohammad Ali Reza Ripon not even a month ago.

“I still can’t forget that grief. The way I am being arrested in front of three minor children - these children don’t even have a mother.”

Ivy, the daughter of Ali Ahmed Chunka - the first chairman of the Narayanganj Municipality – had initially pursued a medical degree abroad. She returned to Bangladesh two decades ago and suddenly entered politics.

When the Awami League was facing difficulties in Narayanganj during the BNP-Jamaat coalition government, Ivy took charge of the party. In 2003, she ran for the post of Narayanganj Municipality chairman and won.

After that, when the Awami League returned to power, Ivy's clash with the influential Osman family began. The conflict that the Osmans had with Chunka in Narayanganj continued in the rivalry between Ivy and Shamim Osman.

When the municipality became Narayanganj City Corporation in 2011, Shamim Osman ran against Ivy in the first mayoral election. Though the vote was not conducted using party symbols, the Awami League’s central leaders backed Shamim.

Ivy beat Shamim in the election.

In 2016 and 2022, Ivy ran as the candidate of the then ruling Awami League and won against BNP candidates Sakhawat Hossain and Taimur Alam Khandaker.

Yunus, chairing the 90-minute session, commended the positive reform-focused stance of parties in the initial phase.

The meeting reviewed the commission’s progress, attended by Vice-Chairman Professor Ali Riaz and members Dr Badiul Alam Majumder, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Justice Emdadul Haque, Safar Raj Hossain, and Dr Mohammad Ayub Mia. 

Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud, Housing Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Energy Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, and Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam were also present at the meeting.

The commission aims to advance national reforms through inclusive dialogue with political stakeholders.

In a statement on Wednesday, the NCP also called on all “anti-fascist” political parties to unite to protect the country's sovereignty in this situation.

In response to the terrorist attack on tourists in Kashmir, India launched missile strikes on multiple targets in Pakistan late on Tuesday night.

India fired missiles into several locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, killing at least 26 people, including a child, according to Pakistani officials.

Retaliatory Pakistani shelling killed at least 10 people in Indian-administered Kashmir, Al Jazeera quoted Indian officials as saying.

The NCP statement read, "The missile attack by India on Pakistan has further aggravated the ongoing tense situation between the two countries and created a war-like situation.

"This incident is a direct blow to regional peace and stability in South Asia. The NCP calls upon the warring parties to exercise restraint and patience in the interest of peace and stability in the region."

The party fears that Awami League adherents in India could create instability in Bangladesh by taking advantage of the strained war situation.

The NCP, which comprises the frontline leaders of the Anti-discrimination Student Movement that led the protest to topple the Awami League government on Aug 5 last year, said: "Thousands of fugitive fascist Awami League supporters living in India are posing a serious threat to the overall security of Bangladesh.

"This rogue group is conspiring to create unrest and anarchy in Bangladesh by exploiting the existing troubled situation and trying to cause harm to the lives and property of the country’s citizens through infiltration and subversive activities near the border."

The party urged the interim government and the armed forces to carry out their duties with utmost professionalism by increasing surveillance and institutional capacity in the border areas.

Speaking in front of Khaleda’s Gulshan residence, Feroza, on Tuesday, he said “the day is not far” when Tarique would lead the recovery of democracy.

After four months of treatment in London, the 79-year-old three-time prime minister returned home to a warm welcome by party leaders, activists, and supporters, who cheered her on along the path from the Dhaka airport to Gulshan.

On the way back, she was accompanied by her two daughters-in-law -- Tarique’s wife Zubaida Rahman and the late Arafat Rahman Coco's wife Syeda Sharmila Rahman -- along with 13 others.

Tarique and Zubaida have been in London since leaving Bangladesh amid the 2008 state of emergency. This is Zubaida’s first trip back to the country since then, though when Tarique will return remains uncertain.

Khaleda’s private physician, Zahid said: “If Allah wills it, the way the acting chairman is leading from Britain, he will do that not only to lead the BNP but also the struggle to restore and establish democracy. Maybe, in a few days, the circumstances will allow for him to arrive [to Bangladesh].

“Dr Zubaida Rahman arrived with madam (Khaleda) and this is not a start, this is their country. It’s only natural that they’ll come here. They hadn’t before as they weren’t allowed. Time will tell how long she’s [Zubaida] going to stay,” he added.

"Naturally, her husband Tarique Rahman is there (in London), and her daughter is there as well. And in a few days, she will go back... She had to stay in exile there for 17 years. She will put that in order and very soon, you will see her returning to the country with Tarique Rahman.

“And the struggle that is going on to re-establish democracy in the country, that is, the ultimate goal of that democracy (establishment), will be led by my party's acting chairman, Tarique Rahman."

Leaders of the parties, while attending separate dialogues with the National Consensus Commission, expressed their concerns over various state reform proposals by the interim government-formed reform commissions.

The dialogues were held at the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in the capital Dhaka.

Earlier, on January 15, the Constitution Reform Commission recommended a bicameral parliament comprising a 400-member national assembly and a 105-member Senate.

BSP general secretary Modassher Hossain Babul, while briefing journalists after the meeting, said his party disagreed to the proposed bicameral parliament and recommended proportional representation, instead of the first-past-the-post method of election, for a 400-member unicameral parliament.

‘We often observed that parties, even though they received 30 or 40 per cent of the total votes cast, became rulers. To make the parliament inclusive, proportional representation will ensure representation of the rest of the voters,’ Babul said.

To control the use of black money in elections, his party recommended that the Election Commission bear all the electoral expenditures, including the campaign costs of the contenders.

Bangladesh Liberal Democratic Party chair Shahadat Hossen Selim, representing the Alliance of 12 Parties, said the parties agreed to the bicameral legislature system but strongly recommended that the final decision on the type of parliament should be taken by the next parliament.

‘We have urged the National Consensus Commission only to focus on the electoral reforms for holding free and fair elections. The rest of its ambitious proposals, including on the constitutional reforms, would take time. Only a parliament should decide on the major reforms,’ Selim said.

The parties under the alliance criticised the NCC for inviting non-popular small parties to dialogues. Besides the Bangladesh LDP, the other parties in the alliance include Jatiya Party (Kazi Zafar), Jatiya Dal, Jamiyatul Ulamaye Islam, Jatiya Ganatantrik Party-Jagpa, Bangladesh Labour Party, Bangladesh Kalyan Party and Bangladesh Islamic Party.

During its dialogue, the BSP disagreed to any change in the constitutional name of Bangladesh, the fundamental principles, the Articles 8, 9,10 and 12. The particular articles explain the state’s fundamental principles, nationalism, socialism and freedom from exploitation, and secularism and freedom of religion. 

The party also demanded that the Schedule Seven of the existing Constitution should remain intact.

The particular schedule is about the proclamation of the country’s independence which was signed at Mujibnagar on April 10, 1971.

The dialogues were chaired by NCC vice-chair Ali Riaz. Other NCC members and the chief adviser’s special assistant Monir Haidar were present.

“We can assure you, and we can say clearly without hesitation and with strong confidence, that we have always been and will continue to be in favour of freedom of the press in the future, whether we are in government or not, wherever we are,” he told a discussion.

The Editors’ Council arranged the programme at the Jatiya Press Club, marking World Press Freedom Day.

Fakhrul said their party has long been fighting against the oppression inflicted on journalists and the laws and regulations related to media that have been given a fascist character.

“We would like to say in very clear and strong terms that we will never support unjustly imposing anyone’s views on others. We will strongly support the freedom of expression of others,” he said.

Even if they do not like what others think, the BNP leader said they will support and uphold the freedom of its expression.

As they are sincere about ensuring press freedom, Fakhrul said their party included it in its 31-point state-overhauling outlines, assuring the independence of the media.

He said BNP worked significantly towards ensuring press freedom in Bangladesh, as there were fewer incidents of repression on journalists during BNP’s rule. “I don’t want to say we’re free from shortcomings.”

“We believe in the freedom of others and cannot see mob justice as the standard of democracy. The Liberation War of 1971 is a huge issue. We do not want to compromise on that. This is our basis,” the BNP leader said.

Convener of National Citizen Party (NCP) Nahid Islam said the statements of their party and its leaders are being presented in different ways by some media outlets. “We hope that the relations between the political parties and the mass media will be more positive in the future,” he said.

Nahid called upon the government to implement the recommendations made by the Reform Commission as early as possible. “A positive change will be visible in the media landscape if these recommendations are implemented.”

“They (Japan) have huge investment in Bangladesh and they have a lot of plans for more investment here in the coming days,” he said while briefing reporters after Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi’s meeting with BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

The hour-long meeting, which began at 3:30pm, was held at the party chairperson's Gulshan office.

BNP Standing Committee member and Chairperson's Foreign Affairs Advisory Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Organising Secretary Shama Obaed also attended the meeting.

Khosru said they discussed how Japan can continue its trend of investment in Bangladesh like in the past.

He said BNP always welcomes Japanese investment because the quality of their investment is very good, the cost is low, and the terms of trade are always favourable for Bangladesh.

“Our discussion topics were Madam's (BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s) health, her return to the country, investment and trade between the two countries, and the next election,” the BNP leader said.

He said Bangladesh-Japan bilateral relations are very significant. “Japan has always been our biggest development partner. So naturally, they expect the environment to continue to work with the new government coming to Bangladesh in the future.”

Just as everyone is waiting for the elections, Khosru said Japan also wants to know when the elections will be held in Bangladesh.

“Naturally, everyone's investment and many other decisions depend on the election. Everyone is waiting for the election and an elected government in Bangladesh. It is the same with Japan. So, everyone hopes that a democratic order will return to Bangladesh,” he observed.

Khosru said all the previous BNP governments have had good experience working with Japan and they successfully implemented many projects. “We will definitely use that good experience in the future as well.”

In the discussion, he said the Japanese envoy highlighted Khaleda Zia’s long contribution to politics, her love for the people, and her return to the country with love of the people.

“They are also observing the Madam's return to the country with great interest and, like the people of Bangladesh, they also feel that her return to the country is good for the nation,” he said. 

Zubaida is returning home with her mother-in-law and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, in an air ambulance provided by the Emir of Qatar.

She left Dhaka with her husband Tarique Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman 17 years ago, on 11 September 2008.

The house, known as Mahbub Bhaban, is located on Road 5 of Dhanmondi and was the residence of her late father, former Navy Chief Rear Admiral Mahbub Ali Khan and the preparations are underway to welcome Zubaida to her paternal home, where she will be staying with her ailing mother.

BNP Media Cell member Atikur Rahman Rumman told UNB that security and renovation works are going on at the residence. “Since Zubaida Rahman is coming to stay at the house, we’re making all arrangements, including decoration, CCTV installation and ensuring all utility services are in order so that she can stay there comfortably,” he said.

Rumman said everything will be ready ahead of Zubaida’s arrival. “The Mahbub Bhaban will be fully prepared to receive her.”

The Mahbub Bhaban is currently home to Zubaida’s mother, Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu, and the family of her elder sister, Shahina Zaman. Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu was recently admitted to a hospital in Dhaka.

Rumman said extensive security measures have been taken at the residence, including the installation of CCTV cameras around the perimeter walls and the deployment of police and BNP Chairperson’s Special Security Force (CSF) personnel.

“The house is already well-kept, but we’ve made additional arrangements in view of Zubaida Rahman’s return,” he said.

He said BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has specifically instructed that no security arrangement should cause inconvenience to neighbours. “We’ve been clearly told to avoid any disturbance to surrounding residents. The Chairman wants everything done with care and respect.”

Rumman said Mahbub Bhaban features a flower garden at the front and a dedicated guard room for security personnel.

He said separate vehicles and a security team have been arranged for Dr Zubaida during her stay in Bangladesh.

On 30 April, the BNP Chairperson’s personal secretary, ABM Abdus Sattar, wrote to the Inspector General of Police requesting armed protection, police presence at the residence, and the installation of an archway scanner, citing potential security threats to Zubaida Rahman.

Rumman said officials from the police and intelligence agencies have already inspected the house and outlined necessary measures for her safety.

Tarique Rahman, Dr Zubaida and their daughter Zaima Rahman have been living in London since 2008. It will be Zubaida’s first return to Bangladesh in 17 years.

She became entangled in legal troubles during the 1/11 military-backed caretaker government and the subsequent Awami League administration.

On 26 September 2008, the Anti-Corruption Commission filed a case with Kafrul Police Station against Tarique Rahman, Zubaida Rahman and her mother, Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu, for amassing wealth beyond known sources of income.

Zubaida was later sentenced to three years in prison and fined Tk 35 lakh by a Dhaka court. It was later stayed following the fall of the Awami League government in August last year.

Born in Sylhet May 18, 1972, Zubaida was admitted to Dhaka Medical College at the insistence of her parents after passing her higher secondary examinations with distinction.

Zubaida married Tarique Rahman in 3 February 1994.

She passed the MBBS examination with the highest merit and began her career as a government doctor through the BCS in 1995. Zubaida ranked first in the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS-Health) examination.

Sheikh Hasina’s government dismissed her from her position after she went to London on study leave in 2008.

After moving to London, Zubaida obtained a postgraduate degree in medicine from Imperial College.

Zubaida’s father, Rear Admiral Mahbub Ali Khan, served as Chief of the Bangladesh Navy during the government of former President Ziaur Rahman from 4 November 1978 to 6 August 1984.

He subsequently served as the Minister of Communications and Agriculture under the government of Hussain Muhammad Ershad.

General MAG Osmani, Commander-in-Chief of the Bangladesh Liberation War, was Zubaida’s uncle.

BNP sources said the Qatari air ambulance carrying Khaleda and her entourage members, including Dr Zubaida Rahman, and her late son Arafat Rahman Koko’s wife Syeda Sharmila Rahman, along with members of her medical team, will depart from Heathrow Airport at 6:15pm (London time) on Monday.

They are expected to reach Dhaka at 10:30am on Tuesday after a stopover in Doha.

Khaleda Zia travelled to London on 8 January in the same special air ambulance sent by the Emir of Qatar.

Upon arrival, she was admitted to the London Clinic, a private hospital, where she remained under the care of renowned specialists Professor Patrick Kennedy and Professor Jennifer Cross for 17 days.

Since 25 January, she has been receiving treatment at the residence of her elder son, Tarique Rahman.

BNP Media Cell member Shairul Kabir Khan confirmed the development on Saturday (May 3), stating that the air ambulance will depart from London on Monday (May 5) and is expected to arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at 10:30 am on Tuesday (May 6).

He also mentioned that party leaders and activists across various levels are preparing to welcome their leader at the airport.  

Khaleda Zia was arrested in 2018 in a corruption case and imprisoned in the Old Dhaka Central Jail. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the then-government released her under special consideration.

Following the fall of the Awami League government in August last year, the President issued an order for her release. Subsequently, the court quashed the verdicts in the two corruption cases in which she had been convicted.

On January 8 this year, Khaleda Zia was taken to London for advanced medical treatment. After 17 days of treatment at a London clinic, she moved to the residence of her son, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, on January 25. She celebrated Eid there with her family.

She is currently staying at her son's residence in London and is undergoing regular health check-ups. Khaleda Zia has long been suffering from several chronic conditions, including liver cirrhosis, kidney and heart problems, diabetes, and arthritis.

The information was first shared in a Facebook post by Abdul Hannan Masud, another leader of the NCP.

In his post, he wrote, “Hasnat Abdullah’s car has come under attack in Chandana, Gazipur. Anyone nearby, please come forward immediately.”

Similar information was also posted on Facebook by Sarjis Alam, the NCP’s Chief Coordinator (North), who claimed that 10–12 assailants launched the attack.

 “The car windows were smashed, and Hasnat’s hand is bleeding. Those nearby, please protect him,” his post reads.

When contacted around 7:30pm, Shahin Khan, Officer-in-Charge of Bason Police Statio said, “We are yet to confirm the details or exact location of the incident.  We are verifying the information.”

Meanwhile, local sources said Hasnat Abdullah was seen near the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) under the jurisdiction of Gazipur’s Gacha Police Station.

Gazipur Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner (South) Nasir Uddin also said that he was on his way to the spot after receiving reports of the incident.

The newly formed party's Convenor Nahid Islam said, “The boat symbol must be wiped out from Bangladesh.

“The Awami League's organisational and political activities must be banned by law during trial.”

The party, composed of student leaders of the July Uprising, also alleged the Election Commission formed by the interim government is “not working to uphold the people's aspirations”.

After holding torchlight processions in Dhaka's wards for the past month demanding a ban on the AL, the NCP's Dhaka Metropolitan unit held a rally at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque on Friday.

In the last 15 years, only AL usually held political programmes there.

Around 20 central leaders of the NCP spoke at the rally.

Nahid said, “We have to take to the streets demanding a ban on the AL, even though 9 months have passed since the July Uprising. I consider this our collective failure.

“Our promise to the nation was to ensure justice for the fascism and tyranny of the past 16 years.”

Highlighting the situation, Nahid said: “In the past 16 years, the Awami League has stolen votes and taken away people’s voting rights.

“It defeated the patriotic section of the Bangladesh Army through the Pilkhana massacre.

“The 2013 Shapla Square massacre took away scholars’ rights to express their opinions. They have also continuously suppressed the quota reform movement and the anti-Modi movement.

“They used police, army, and BGB to shoot at the people in the July movement.

“They’ve turned into a fascist organisation.

“It’s unfortunate the state failed to take responsibility for the families of the July martyrs.

“Meanwhile, those arrested are getting bail, and the AL is being re-established at the grassroots level with backing from various political groups.”

He added, “The Election Reform Commission recommended barring those involved with the AL and genocide from contesting. Whose interests are the EC protecting?

“The UN report proves the July-August genocide and crimes against humanity were organised on Sheikh Hasina’s orders.”

Nahid said, “Bangladesh achieved independence through a bloody struggle.

“The aspirations of an independent Bangladesh were thwarted through the 1972 Mujibist constitution.”

NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain said, “The AL, which has terrorised the people of Bangladesh, committed crimes against humanity, and repeatedly imposed genocide on Bangladesh, has no right to do politics.”