United News of Bangladesh

A leader of Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB) was killed and one of his associates injured on Friday when a mini-truck ran over them on the Kushtia-Rajbari regional highway in Kumarkhali, kusthia. The accident occurred around 10pm in the Fultola area of Sadki Union. The deceased was identified as Abdur Razzak Badsha, 48, son of Hachen Ali of Betbaria village in Jagannathpur Union. He was the owner of Al-Madina Sweet Store near Kumarkhali bus stand and served as the president of IAB’s Jagannathpur Union unit. His injured associate was named Mufti Khairul Bashar. According to police, witnesses, and locals, Badsha was riding a motorcycle with his associate to visit the residence of IAB candidate Anwar Khan in Khoksha, Kushtia-4 constituency, when a mini-truck carrying potatoes was approaching in the same direction. While attempting to overtake the truck near Fultola, Badsha lost control, fell onto the road, and was crushed under the vehicle, which then fled the scene. Bashar sustained minor injuries and is out of danger. Local resident Kazi Saiful said Badsha was heading to meet a candidate when the accident occurred during the overtaking maneuver. Anwar Khan, IAB candidate for Kushtia-4, said he had spoken with Badsha shortly before the incident. Kumarkhali police station officer-in-charge Jamal Uddin confirmed the death and said the fragmented body was handed over to the highway police, who will take legal action.

Bangladesh has strongly rejected Myanmar’s recent submissions before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the case brought by The Gambia over the Rohingya genocide, saying Naypyidaw’s attempt to label the Rohingya as ‘Bengalis’ is a deliberate effort to justify atrocities committed against them in 2016–17. In a press release on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Myanmar is trying to create a false narrative of illegal migration and internal security threats by referring to the Rohingya as ‘Bengalis’, portraying the so-called ‘clearance operations’ as counter-terrorism measures while diverting attention from crimes against humanity. The government emphasised that the Rohingya are a distinct ethnic group that evolved over centuries in Arakan, even before it became part of the Barman Kingdom in 1785. Their historical presence in the old Arakan capital Myo-Haung (Mro-Haung or Rohaung) led to them being identified as people of Roshang or Rohang in Chittagong and greater Bengal, initially as an exonym. As marginalisation intensified in Burma, the community adopted the name ‘Rohingya’ for self-identification. Bangladesh said they have deep historical, cultural, and social roots in Arakan and present-day Rakhine, predating modern borders, a fact documented in historical records, colonial demographic accounts, and independent scholarship. The government noted that the Rohingya were integral to Myanmar’s politics, society, and governance until the 1982 Citizenship Law excluded them on ethno-religious grounds. Despite marginalisation, they retained voting rights until full disenfranchisement in the 2015 elections. Myanmar has persistently denied them constitutional guarantees of equal rights, and the final stage of this planned destruction was their eviction from Rakhine, rendering them stateless. Bangladesh highlighted that the Rohingya possess a distinct ethnic identity, cultural heritage, traditions, social practices, and language, clearly distinct from Bangla despite similarities with the Chittagonian dialect. Calling them ‘Bengalis’ systematically denies their right to self-identify and has been used to justify exclusion, persecution, and ethnic cleansing. Myanmar itself recognised them as “lawful residents of Burma” under the 1978 bilateral repatriation agreement, which assured their integration into society as equal members. The release said Myanmar’s failure over the past eight years to create a conducive environment in Rakhine and facilitate repatriation violates bilateral agreements signed in 2017–18 and may indicate intent to destroy the Rohingya community. Bangladesh also rejected Myanmar’s 2023 claim that “half a million Bangladeshi people took refuge in Rakhine during the Liberation War,” noting no evidence supports this, and the presence of such a large refugee population would have created massive disruption. Bangladesh called on Myanmar and authorities in Rakhine to recognise the Rohingya as an integral part of society and state, and to ensure their safe, dignified, and voluntary return with equal rights.          

Jamaat-e-Islami activists allegedly attacked a Jatiya Party election rally in Jessore city on Friday evening, damaging campaign equipment and banners. The incident took place around 6:45pm at the Taltola Mor area, where the Jatiya Party campaign for Jessore-3 candidate Khobir Gazi was ongoing. The party’s joint district convener, Nazrul Islam, filed a written complaint with Kotwali police station. According to the complaint, three e-rickshaws used for campaign sound systems were in operation when over a hundred Jamaat supporters reportedly arrived with a procession, disrupting the campaign, breaking a microphone, and tearing banners. The campaign was temporarily halted due to the attack, which the Jatiya Party described as planned. Eyewitnesses said the attack occurred suddenly during the campaign procession, causing tension in the area, but no major clashes were reported. Jamaat’s Jessore assistant secretary Golam Kuddus said the incident happened when one of their workers accidentally tore a banner while moving an e-rickshaw. “We went to the spot, spoke with the Jatiya Party leaders, expressed regret, and assured them the banner would be replaced. It was a minor incident being exaggerated,” he added. Kotwali police station officer-in-charge Faruk Ahmed said the police received the written complaint and forwarded it to the returning officer, who will take further legal action.

At least six people were injured on Friday when supporters of an independent candidate and the BNP clashed during an election procession in Gozaria upazila of Munshiganj-3 constituency. The incident occurred around 4:45 pm in the Sonali Market area near the Fuldi River. The injured, Mamun (47), Manik (42), and Al Amin (25), received treatment locally, while others sustained minor injuries, police said. According to police and locals, supporters of independent candidate Md. Mohiuddin, contesting under the football symbol, were marching through Sonali Market when they came face-to-face with supporters of the Dhaner Shish symbol candidate. The confrontation escalated into a clash involving sticks and fists as both sides shouted slogans. Gozaria police station officer-in-charge Hasan Ali said the situation has returned to normal and legal action will be taken if complaints are filed regarding the incident.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Friday announced that if elected in the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, his party would implement the first Teesta Mega Plan in northern Bangladesh. He made the remarks while addressing an election rally organised by the 10-party alliance at the Rangpur Public Library ground. “The revival of rivers means the revival of life in the north. That is why the Teesta Mega Plan must be implemented,” he said, adding that Jamaat would not care who supports or opposes the project. “If you give us responsibility, the first spade will be struck on the Teesta in the north,” he asserted. Dr Shafiqur Rahman said Jamaat does not want one-party rule but people’s rule, where scholars, patriots and those who love the country, but reject domination, will work together to build Bangladesh. He said Jamaat is willing to work with everyone, but set three conditions: no corruption, no sheltering of corrupt individuals, and ensuring justice for all regardless of wealth, gender, religion or ethnicity. The judiciary, he added, must remain fully independent, free from political interference. Criticising past governance, the Jamaat chief said people had been oppressed under authoritarian rule for years and deprived of basic human rights. He alleged widespread corruption, killings, enforced disappearances and political repression, including the targeting of Jamaat and Islami Chhatra Shibir leaders and activists. Claiming Jamaat was the most persecuted political force, he said the party never harassed innocent people, demanded extortion or engaged in corrupt practices. “We want a Bangladesh free from corruption, extortion and deception,” he said, urging voters to reject false promises. On employment, Dr Shafiqur Rahman said Jamaat does not support unemployment allowances, arguing that they encourage dependency. Instead, the party aims to create dignified jobs for both men and women and turn citizens into productive assets. Referring to northern Bangladesh, he said the region had been deliberately neglected despite being the country’s food-producing hub. Jamaat, he pledged, would transform the north into an agro-industrial hub, reopen closed sugar mills, establish agricultural universities if needed, and ensure no young person remains unemployed. On healthcare, he said people from the north are forced to travel to Dhaka for treatment. If Jamaat forms the government, every district will have a medical college, including one in Thakurgaon. Calling for unity, Dr Shafiqur Rahman urged voters to support not only Jamaat-e-Islami but the entire 10-party alliance to build a new Bangladesh free from corruption, discrimination and authoritarianism. Jamaat leader ATM Azhar, NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, Islami Chhatra Shibir central secretary Sibgatullah Sibga, Jamaat candidates from six constituencies, and leaders of the 10-party alliance were present at the rally.

Saraswati Puja-1432 has been celebrated with befitting verve and grandeur at Dhaka University, attracting a large number of devotees. The festivities at Jagannath Hall kicked off with the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and the arts, on Friday. From the morning, thousands of devotees from diverse walks of life were seen participating in various rituals, including offering flowers at the goddess's feet and performing Bani Archona. This year, various departments and institutions of the university have set up a total of 76 puja mandaps at the Jagannath Hall playground. Additionally, separate celebrations have been organised at the female halls. Cultural and recreational activities were arranged at Jagannath Hall. Devotees believe that on the fifth day of the month of Magh, Debi Saraswati, symbolising truth, justice, and knowledge, arrives in the world riding a white swan. On this day, Hindus across the country observe worship to honour the goddess. The organisers said that the Jagannath Hall has historically upheld a tradition of religious harmony and cultural inclusivity, and the Saraswati Puja is celebrated in a manner that respects all faiths and communities. DU philosophy department student and Jagannath Hall resident Sajon Sarker said, "This puja is organized in our hall every year with great pomp. We want this trend to continue forever. Our wish in this puja is that we can build a harmonious Bangladesh."

Detectives have arrested another shooter from Narsingdi district in connection with the murder of Musabbir and recovered two pistols, two magazines and 12 rounds of ammunition. A reliable source at the Detective Branch (DB) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police said several DB teams conducted raids in Narsingdi on Friday based on secret information and arrested the shooter, identified as Rahim. With Rahim’s arrest, the total number of arrestees in the killing of Swechchhasebak Dal leader Azizur Rahman Musabbir has risen to five. Earlier, DB police arrested four suspects, including one shooter. The source said the arrestee is being interrogated, but for the sake of the investigation, no more details could be divulged. A formal press briefing will be held on Saturday to disclose more information. Earlier on January 10, several DB teams conducted raids at different locations in the capital as well as in Manikganj, Mymensingh and Netrakona, arresting four suspects in the case. The arrestees were identified as Jinnat, the alleged main shooter; Md Billal, the alleged main coordinator; Abdul Kadir, an alleged associate of the killers; and Md Riaz. Azizur Rahman Musabbir, a leader of the BNP’s volunteer wing Jatiyatabadi Swechchhasebak Dal, and Abu Sufian, general secretary of Karwan Bazar Van Association, were shot at around 8:15pm on January 7, in front of the Ahsanullah Institute of Technical and Vocational Education and Training Centre in Tejturibazar area of the capital. Musabbir was declared dead when he was rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital while Abu Sufian is still undergoing treatment in the hospital. DB officials said the investigation is continuing to identify all involved and recover weapons used in the crime.

The Army arrested a man while he was extorting money by posing as a member of the Bangladesh Army in Faridpur sadar on Thursday. The arrestee was identified as Md Arif Sheikh, 39. He was caught red-handed at Kishan Hat in the Goalchamat area on Thursday night. Later, he was handed over to Kotwali Police Station and shown arrested in a fraud case under a special law. In a press release on Friday, the Faridpur Army Camp stated that the arrest was made during a joint operation around 9:30pm on Thursday. Arif is a resident of the Goalchamat area and claimed to work for the “Daily Ghoshona.” Arif was collecting money from people by using a fake army identity. Acting on this information, a joint team led by the Faridpur Army Camp, with members of the 15 Riverine Engineer Battalion and local police, conducted a swift operation and detained him from the spot. During initial questioning, he admitted that he had harassed members of the public by using false identities. Md Shahidul Islam, Officer in Charge of Kotwali Police Station, said, “|Legal steps are under way to produce him before court.” Earlier on Wednesday, the army arrested another impostor, Md Jahir Mollah, 41, with a firearm in a separate operation. He was later sent to jail after being shown arrested in an arms case. Both Arif Sheikh and Jahir Mollah are believed to be members of a local fake organisation operating in Faridpur.

Saraswati Puja, the worship of the goddess of knowledge, arts and music for followers of Sanatan Dharma, is being celebrated at Jagannath University in a grand and festive atmosphere. The puja formally began on Friday (January 23) at 8:30am on the university campus and is still ongoing. This year, 37 out of the university’s total 39 departments have organized Saraswati Puja in separate pandals. According to sources, every year the worship of Goddess Saraswati is held on the fifth day (Shukla Panchami) of the lunar month of Magh, following traditional rituals. The puja begins with the invocation of the goddess and concludes with floral offerings (Pushpanjali) and the distribution of prasad. Smriti, a student of the English Department who participated in the puja, said, “We are celebrating this day with great joy. We have also invited friends from other religious communities and they have joined us. We are eating together and enjoying the moment,it feels wonderful.” Another student from the Bangla Department, Hriday Roy, said, “Goddess Saraswati is the deity of knowledge, music and arts. Through this puja every year, we pray to be educated with true learning and to awaken the hidden talents within us.” Tatini Roy Tithi, a student of the History Department, said, “This is the only day of the year when we worship Goddess Saraswati. We pray so that we can pursue knowledge properly throughout the year. I am really enjoying such a joyful environment on campus.” Rabindranath Mondal, president of the Puja Committee, said, “Since morning, this year’s Saraswati Puja has been celebrated in a very grand manner with the combined participation of teachers, students, and staff. As the president of the Puja Committee, I would like to especially thank the Proctorial Body and the JnU Central Students’ Union (JnUCSU) Committee for their overall cooperation. In particular, the support of JnUCSU Cultural Secretary Takrim is highly commendable.” After visiting the puja mandaps, Vice-Chancellor of Jagannath University Professor Rezaul Karim said, “Saraswati Puja is being celebrated with great grandeur and enthusiasm among the students. I have visited every mandap. Congratulations to all Sanatani students. To ensure a more elaborate celebration, we have increased the budget this year compared to last year.”

Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, said on Friday that the objective of establishing IT Training and Incubation Centers is to foster a robust startup ecosystem across the country. Taiyeb, who holds the portfolio for the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, made the remarks during the inauguration of an IT Training and Incubation Center in Meherpur. The project was implemented by Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority under the ICT Division. Addressing the ceremony, Taiyeb emphasized that for an emerging district like Meherpur, creating a skilled workforce and technology-based employment is vital for sustainable development. "This center will serve three major purposes. "First, it will provide infrastructure to help local entrepreneurs and small IT businesses evolve into successful startups. Second, it will train the youth in freelancing, e-commerce, and ICT to ensure quality employment. Third, it will bridge the gap between academia and industry by connecting universities with the commercial sector," he noted. The newly inaugurated center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including: Modern Computer Labs: For hands-on technical training. Startup Spaces: Dedicated areas for incubation and business growth. 150-Seat Auditorium: For seminars, workshops, and large-scale training sessions. Taiyeb confirmed that all certifications provided by the center would be verified by the National Skills Development Authority (NSDA), ensuring that graduates receive professional recognition both at home and abroad. Regarding financial support for new ventures, Taiyeb highlighted that local entrepreneurs can now apply for government startup funds and investment through ‘Startup Bangladesh Limited’ and the ‘iDEA Project’ directly from Meherpur. This move is intended to decentralize the IT sector and reduce the historical dependency on Dhaka. Monir Haider, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, was present at the event as a special guest. The event was presided over by Mohammad Saiful Hassan, Member (Joint Secretary) of the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority. The inauguration began with the launch of a "Specialized ICT Training for College Teachers" workshop, followed by a ceremonial tree-planting program on the center's premises. Distinguished attendees included Dr. Sheikh Bakhtiar Uddin, Vice-Chancellor of Meherpur University; Dr. Sayed Enamul Kabir, Deputy Commissioner of Meherpur; and Ujjal Kumar Roy, Superintendent of Police, alongside other government officials.

Hasnat Abdullah, the 10-party alliance candidate for Cumilla-4 (Debidwar) and chief organiser (south) of the National Citizen Party (NCP), on Friday said the people would reject corrupt candidates through the ballot. Speaking at several street rallies during door-to-door campaigning on the second day of electioneering, Hasnat said the masses of Debidwar, expatriates, youths and women are his main strength. “Many may belong to other parties, but they will vote for me in secret,” he added. He said voters would exercise their franchise freely this time. “There will be no coercion or strong-arming. Voting is an expression of choice and goodwill, there is no room for fear or pressure,” he said. Hasnat alleged that political parties which nominated loan defaulters, bank looters and corrupt individuals have already been identified by the public, who will reject them through votes. Criticising VIP culture in politics, he said creating artificial barriers distances leaders from the people. “We do not want big-chair, small-chair politics. Politics remains people-friendly only when leaders stay connected with ordinary citizens,” he said. Highlighting the impact of corruption, Hasnat said, “If corruption is not resisted today, people will have to pay bribes even to receive basic services. The country must be freed from this situation.” He stressed that politics should never be treated as an ‘investment’ to recover profits. He said he joined politics to serve people with integrity and has never been involved in extortion, tender manipulation or corruption. Over the past one and a half years, neither he nor his supporters have collected illegal donations or engaged in market or transport grabbing, he claimed. During the campaign, Hasnat sought votes for the Shapla symbol, pledging to build a society free from drugs, corruption and extortion. On Friday, Hasnat addressed several courtyard meetings at Vhinglabari in Debidwar, Biharmandal in Mohanpur Union, the Chotna High School field and Shantir Road. He also inaugurated his election office at Bagmara Bazar in Barkamta Union. Leaders of the 10-party alliance, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Cumilla North district General Secretary and former upazila vice-chairman Saiful Islam Shahid, were present at the programmes.

The Rajshahi Warriors have been crowned champions of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), securing a dominant 63-run victory over Chattogram Royals in Friday's final. Powered by a historic century from Tanzid Hasan and a lethal bowling spell from Binura Fernando, Rajshahi defended their total of 174 with ease, bowling out Chattogram for just 111 in 17.5 overs at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Chasing a daunting target of 175, the Royals’ batting lineup crumbled under the pressure of the final. Sri Lankan pacer Binura Fernando was the wrecker-in-chief, claiming astonishing figures of 4 for 9 to rip through the opposition. He was ably supported by spinner Hasan Murad, who snapped up 3 for 15 to dismantle the middle order. Mirza Baig offered the only significant resistance with a knock of 39, while Asif Ali was the only other batter to cross the 20-run mark. The lean batting display meant Chattogram never truly threatened the target, handing Rajshahi a comfortable path to the title. Earlier, the foundation for the victory was laid by opener Tanzid Hasan, whose decisive 100 off 62 balls marked only the third century in BPL final history. After being asked to bat by Chattogram captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Tanzid anchored the innings with a blend of caution and aggression. He shared an 83-run opening stand with Sahibzada Farhan (30) and a 47-run partnership with Kane Williamson (24). Despite surviving a scare on 54, Tanzid punished the bowlers with 7 sixes and 6 fours, eventually perishing in the 19th over. His heroics, combined with the subsequent bowling masterclass, ensured the trophy went to Rajshahi in front of a packed house.

BNP Secretary General and Thakurgaon-1 constituency candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday said his party would ensure the safety and security of Hindu community people  if it comes to power. “Some people are trying to divide Hindus and Muslims  but there is no scope for such division. We live together and will continue to do so,” he said. Mirza Fakhrul Islam made the remarks Friday afternoon during election campaign at Sholtihori Bazar in Thakurgaon Sadar upazila. Addressing a series of rallies and roadside meetings from afternoon to evening at Sholothori, 11 Mile, Bairagi, Paysafela, Munshirhat and Debipur in Sadar upazila, Fakhrul urged voters to support BNP in the upcoming national election. He said over the last 15 years ballots were cast the night before elections or taken away, depriving people of their voting rights. “Now an opportunity is coming. Our Hasina Apa has gone to India. It is good that she has left, but she has put those who supported her  in danger. We are saying that no innocent person will face any trouble. We are standing by them. Those who have done no wrong will not be punished,” Fakhrul said. He said Jamaat-e-Islami has never governed the country while BNP is a tested party. “Only BNP, with the Sheaf of Paddy symbol, can deliver development. No one else can,” he said. He said BNP activists are  ‘soldiers of Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia’ who have always stood by the people in times of distress. BNP awaits landslide victory; some parties don’t want election: Fakhrul Making voters alert ahead of the February 12 election,Fakhrul said, “One party asking for votes with Scales symbols. Have they ever formed a government? Have they done any work for you? They have not. We have governed before and worked for the people.” Emphasising communal harmony Fakhrul said he works with people of all religions—Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians—and wants to ensure equal security for everyone.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has formally requested the intervention of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Independent Dispute Resolution Committee, refusing to back down from its demand to shift their T20 World Cup matches out of India. Despite the ICC's recent ruling that the tournament schedule remains non-negotiable, the Bangladesh government and board remain steadfast in their decision to boycott the Indian leg of the tournament due to unresolved security concerns. Following a meeting with the World Cup squad at a Dhaka hotel on Thursday, Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul declared that there is “no chance” of the government altering its stance. He confirmed that unless the ICC relocates the fixtures to co-host Sri Lanka, Bangladesh will not participate in the global event scheduled to begin on February 7. In a fresh email sent to the global body, the BCB reiterated its position and called for the dispute to be adjudicated by the ICC’s independent panel of lawyers, hoping for a neutral verdict on the safety risks involved. During the meeting with the Sports Adviser, the players were briefed on the geopolitical realities and security threats that necessitated this hardline approach. The squad reportedly expressed no dissent, stating that while their primary role is to play cricket, they respect the decision of the government and the board as their guardians and will support the boycott if necessary. The crisis was precipitated by the BCCI's decision on January 3 to remove pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL following threats from extremist groups, an incident the Bangladesh government cites as clear evidence that the environment in India is hostile. Farooki questions ICC’s neutrality, cites mob lynching as proof of ‘severe risk’ in India BCB President Aminul Islam maintained that the team is physically and mentally prepared to play but will only do so if the matches are moved to Sri Lanka. While the ICC has not officially responded to the request for independent arbitration and the BCCI remains silent, a BCB official confirmed that the board will continue to press its demand until the very end.  

Claiming that Bangladesh made good progress and people’s lives improved whenever his party was in power, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday urged voters to support the party in the upcoming election to change their fortunes. “We have seen in the past who truly stood by the people. If we consider all past actions, we will see that whenever the people of this country elected the sheaf of paddy, the country developed and people’s lives improved. So, as a candidate of the sheaf of paddy, I am asking for your votes,” he said. Speaking at an election rally at the BRB Ground in Bhashantek under the Dhaka-17 constituency, he also urged people to bring his party back to power to implement its plans for national development. “I urge you, if the plans I have presented to you are to be implemented, the 'Sheaf  of Paddy' must win across Bangladesh. Many of your relatives, friends and acquaintances live across the country. As your candidate and as a son of this area, I humbly request you to ask them all to vote for the sheaf of paddy in their respective constituencies on February 12,” he added. According to the Election Commission’s schedule, formal campaigning began on Thursday. This was Tarique Rahman’s first rally in Dhaka-17. A day earlier, he launched the party’s campaign by visiting the shrines of Hazrat Shah Jalal (RA) and Hazrat Shah Paran (RA) and addressing a rally at the Alia Madrasa ground in Sylhet. On the second day of campaigning, Tarique attended the Bhashantek rally with his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, as he is contesting from the constituency. He emphasised his lifelong connection to the local residents and outlined a comprehensive vision for national reform following a period of political upheaval, prioritising democratic accountability and the restoration of voting rights at all levels of government. Tarique said the country had gone through difficult times over the last 15–16 years before the political changeover through a mass pursing on August 5, 2024. He said people across Bangladesh now want positive changes, including solutions to key problems such as safe movement, security, jobs for students and employment for unemployed young men and women. Pointing to former Bangladesh national football team captain Aminul Haque on stage, Tarique Rahman said, “You all know Aminul Haque. We want to bring out such talents so that boys and girls can become professional athletes and earn their livelihood through sports.” He said every sector of the country and its institutions was weakened over the last 15–16 years, leaving Bangladesh far behind and in need of rebuilding. “If we want to rebuild, we must establish democracy. Only if you can democratically elect your representatives can you take your local problems to them,” Tarique said. Referring to the past 15 years, he said people could not approach so-called MPs with their area’s problems. “That is why, to solve local problems and ensure development, we must elect representatives democratically — not only in parliamentary elections but also in municipalities, upazilas and union councils.” The BNP leader said accountability is essential and elected representatives must know what the people want. “Just as I came to you today and listened to your problems, I expect future representatives at every level to go directly to the people, identify their problems, and take initiatives to solve them.” Tarique said solving local problems as well as national issues such as security, employment, education, and healthcare requires a democratic government elected by the people. “A people-elected government can solve people’s problems,” he said, calling on supporters to take an oath: “We will work together and build the country — Bangladesh first.” In the beginning of his speech, he personally took the microphone and called people from different walks of life — long-time Bhashantek residents, young students, marginal workers, and women — asking them about their problems and expectations if he is elected MP. They said slum dwellers want proper rehabilitation and employment opportunities for women. In response, Tarique Rahman said, “I have grown up in this area for the last 50 years, although I had to stay outside for some time. Still, I am one of you.” “Now that I am a candidate of this area, I can assure you that, with your prayers and by the grace of Allah, if I win the upcoming election and the sheaf of paddy forms the government, we will solve the problems raised here today — including the rehabilitation of slum dwellers and other local issues,” he observed. Several residents shared their concerns directly with Tarique Rahman. Md Jewel, a van driver, asked him to resolve housing problems and improve roads in the constituency. Hena Akhter, a student at the University of Asia Pacific, requested better living standards and rehabilitation for slum dwellers.  Lili, a Bhashantek resident, asked for family cards for women and jobs for unemployed youth. Shanta, another voter, urged employment opportunities for women and access to the cantonment area for civilians. Another middle-aged woman approached the stage to seek forgiveness for stealing guavas from the cantonment house of Tarique and his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, 20 years ago. Sixteen hours, seven stops: Tarique’s campaign begins without pause She also raised grievances about a portion of land allegedly grabbed by an Awami League leader. Tarique asked her to plant a guava tree at her home and send some of its fruit as repayment. He promised to resolve housing problems and rehabilitate slum dwellers.  The BNP Chairman also reiterated that, if his party comes to power, women in every household will receive a Family Card to access either Tk 2,500 in cash or essential food items of equivalent value.

A century from opener Tanzid Hasan has powered the Rajshahi Warriors to a big 174 for 4 in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) final, setting a daunting 175-run target for the Chattogram Royals. Tanzid’s 100 off 62 balls was the centerpiece of the innings at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, marking only the third century in BPL final history. Asked to bat first by Chattogram captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rajshahi started cautiously but accelerated beautifully, thanks to an 83-run opening stand between Tanzid and Sahibzada Farhan (30). Tanzid, who survived a catch on 54 off Amer Jamal’s bowling, made the Royals pay dearly. He smashed 7 sixes and 6 fours, reaching his hundred with a single in the 19th over before perishing to a catch in the deep later that same over. His knock places him in elite company alongside Chris Gayle and Tamim Iqbal as the only players to score a ton in a BPL final. Kane Williamson played a handy cameo of 24 off 15 balls, adding 47 runs with Tanzid for the second wicket, while Rajshahi skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto chipped in with 11 off 7 balls at the death. BPL Qualifier: Rajshahi defend 165 to knock out Sylhet, will face Chattogram in final Chattogram’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, though Mukidul Islam and Shoriful Islam managed to pick up two wickets apiece. Amer Jamal had a forgettable outing, conceding 43 runs in his 4 overs, including 17 in a costly 17th over. The stadium was packed long before the toss, setting an electric atmosphere for the title decider.

Authorities in the southern Indian state of Telangana have launched an investigation after hundreds of stray dogs were reportedly killed across at least six villages in the past month. Police have confirmed at least 354 deaths so far and arrested nine individuals in connection with some of the cases. While animal welfare activists told the BBC that the dogs were either poisoned or injected with lethal substances, police said they are awaiting forensic reports to determine the exact method used. Villagers claimed that the killings were linked to promises made by candidates during recent local election campaigns to remove stray dogs and monkeys from public areas. The incidents have come amid a nationwide debate on stray animals, with the Supreme Court currently hearing petitions on controlling street dogs, including in the capital Delhi. Killings on such a large scale remain rare and have sparked public outrage. Stray animals, mainly dogs but also cattle and monkeys, are considered a persistent problem in many parts of India. They are often blamed for attacks on people, crop damage, and traffic accidents. Experts cite gaps in sterilisation and vaccination programmes, rising garbage, animal abandonment, shrinking forest habitats, and inconsistent law enforcement as contributing factors. While stray dogs often form strong bonds with local communities, animal rights activists have repeatedly flagged cruelty and warned that penalties for harming them are insufficient. Telangana State Minister Danasari Anasuya Seethakka described the killings as “illegal” and “inhumane,” promising strict action against those responsible. The Supreme Court has also been addressing the issue. In August 2025, it ordered authorities in Delhi and surrounding areas to relocate stray dogs to shelters within two months. After public protests, the order was modified to require immunisation and vaccination before releasing the animals back to their neighbourhoods. Animal welfare groups argue that overcrowded shelters are unscientific, while proponents of removal claim uncontrolled populations threaten human safety and livelihoods. The killings in Telangana occurred across three districts between late December and mid-January. In Kamareddy district, police said 244 dogs were buried in four locations, with government veterinary doctors conducting post-mortems and sending samples to laboratories. Village council heads were found involved. In Shayampet and Arepally villages near Warangal, 110 dogs were killed, and nine people, including village council heads, were arrested. In Jagtial city, police are investigating claims that around 40 dogs were killed at the end of December, though no bodies were recovered. Minister Seethakka told the Hindu newspaper that killing stray dogs under the pretext of population control is unjustifiable, and the government has issued instructions to village councils to prevent recurrence. Activists suggest the actual number of culled dogs may be higher than police figures. Some residents defended the killings. Raju, son of the Arepally village head, said only rabid dogs were killed due to disease, aggression, and involvement in road accidents. Another resident, Vijay, claimed most villagers supported the actions over fears of bites and disease. Telangana recorded nearly 122,000 dog bite cases in 2024, though no rabies deaths were reported. The dog killings coincide with other alleged incidents involving stray animals in Telangana, including reports of monkeys found dead or critically injured, allegedly tranquillised and dumped along highways in Kamareddy district.   With inputs from BBC

Bangladesh’s Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has questioned the neutrality of the International Cricket Council (ICC), accusing the governing body of double standards for refusing to shift Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches out of India despite “real and severe” security threats. In a social media post on Friday, Farooki sharply criticized the ICC’s decision to keep the fixtures in India, contrasting it with how the body accommodates security concerns for India and Pakistan. “If ICC truly wants to establish itself as a fair and neutral organization for all member nations, it must take Bangladesh's security concerns seriously and move the matches to Sri Lanka,” he wrote, adding that “the burden of proof for neutrality now lies with the ICC.” Farooki mentioned recent violence to underscore the danger facing Bangladeshis in India. He pointed to a report by an Indian newspaper regarding the lynching of Manjur Laskar, a West Bengal-born Muslim man, who was beaten to death on suspicion of being Bangladeshi just yesterday. “When you combine these incidents with the long-standing anti-Bangladesh hate campaign, which resulted in Mustafizur Rahman being removed from the IPL, it must be admitted that the security threat to Bangladeshi players in India is real and severe,” Farooki stated. He also referenced warnings from Shiv Sena leader Aditya Thackeray regarding the Bangladesh-India match in Mumbai. Farooki noted that even the ICC's own internal and independent security assessments have indicated a 'moderate to high' risk level for the Bangladesh team, particularly if Mustafizur is in the squad and players are wearing national jerseys. This follows comments made yesterday by Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul, who stated after a meeting with cricketers that the ICC had failed to do justice to Bangladesh's concerns. Nazrul also noted that the Indian government had made no effort to reassure Bangladesh regarding security. While the ICC has dismissed the exclusion of Mustafizur from the IPL as an 'isolated' incident, the Bangladesh government insists it is directly linked to the broader hostility that necessitates a venue change.

The United States has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), removing itself as one of the UN agency’s largest donors and a key participant in global health initiatives. The decision stems from an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump a year ago, after he repeatedly criticised the WHO for being overly “China-centric” during the Covid-19 pandemic. The US Department of Health and Human Services said the withdrawal was due to the WHO’s alleged mishandling of the pandemic, its inability to implement meaningful reforms, and political influence from certain member states. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus rejected the US claims, saying the withdrawal is a “loss for both the United States and the world.” The organisation highlighted its global contributions, including efforts to eradicate polio, combat HIV and AIDS, reduce maternal mortality, and enforce its international treaty on tobacco control. Following the pandemic, WHO member states worked on an international pandemic treaty to ensure fair sharing of vaccines and treatments and strengthen preparedness for future outbreaks. The treaty, finalised in April 2025, was agreed upon by all member states except the US. Traditionally, the United States has been one of the largest financial contributors to the WHO, but Washington did not pay its membership fees for 2024 and 2025, causing significant job losses within the organisation. While WHO lawyers maintain that the US is obliged to pay the arrears—estimated at $260 million—Washington has refused, stating there is no reason to do so. As part of the withdrawal, all US government funding to the WHO has been terminated, US personnel and contractors recalled from Geneva headquarters and offices worldwide, and hundreds of engagements with the agency have been suspended or discontinued. US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a joint statement that the WHO “tarnished and trashed everything that America has done for it” and “abandoned its core mission,” acting against US interests. They added that future US engagement with the WHO will be limited strictly to safeguard the health and safety of Americans. Officials noted that the US will continue disease surveillance and pathogen-sharing programs through bilateral relationships with other countries, but they did not specify which countries or partnerships have been established so far. In response to questions about US participation in global health initiatives like polio and HIV programmes, officials said partnerships would continue through NGOs and faith-based groups, though no specific arrangements have been disclosed. US engagement in global flu vaccine development and information-sharing remains uncertain. After Trump signed the withdrawal order at the start of his second term, the WHO expressed hope that the US would reconsider, stating that “the WHO and the USA have saved countless lives and protected Americans and all people from health threats.” The agency said reconsideration would serve the “health and well-being of millions worldwide.” The WHO confirmed on Friday that the US withdrawal would be discussed during its upcoming board meeting scheduled from February 2-7. Its secretariat said it will act according to the guidance provided by its governing bodies. The US exit could remove nearly one-fifth of the WHO’s budget. The defunding and withdrawal come amid criticism of pandemic responses worldwide, including in highly developed countries like the US and the UK, where delays in imposing lockdowns and mask mandates contributed to rapid virus spread. Drew Altman, former US public health official, said the federal government’s inconsistent Covid-19 guidance, politicisation of policy, and failure to implement nationwide preventive measures contributed to one of the highest death rates in the world. A 2020 study in the British Medical Journal accused the Trump administration of failing to provide national guidance and allowing state-level responses to diverge along political lines. Another research paper published in the UN National Library of Medicine labelled the US federal response as “slow and mismanaged.” The US withdrawal marks a significant moment for global health governance, highlighting tensions between national interests and multilateral cooperation in pandemic preparedness and response.   With inputs from BBC

Downing Street has rejected US President Donald Trump’s claim that Nato troops stayed away from the front lines during the war in Afghanistan, calling the remarks wrong and dismissive of allied sacrifices. The Prime Minister’s office said Trump was “wrong to diminish” the role of Nato forces, including British troops, who fought alongside the United States following the 9/11 attacks. Britain joined the US-led operation in 2001 after Nato invoked its collective defence clause for the first and only time. Trump’s comments, made in an interview with Fox News, triggered strong criticism across the UK political spectrum and among veterans. Armed Forces Minister Al Carns described the remarks as “utterly ridiculous” and “a real shame,” while Defence Secretary John Healey said British soldiers who died in Afghanistan should be remembered as heroes. Opposition leaders also condemned the statement. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called it “flat-out nonsense,” and Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey said the prime minister should demand an apology from Trump. Veterans and families of those injured or killed expressed anger and hurt. Former soldiers said the suggestion that Nato forces avoided combat was disrespectful, noting that British and allied troops fought in some of the most dangerous regions, including Helmand province. According to official figures, 457 British service personnel were killed during nearly two decades of conflict in Afghanistan, with many more suffering life-changing injuries. Downing Street said their service and sacrifice, alongside US and other Nato allies, would never be forgotten.   With inputs from BBC

Tottenham Hotspur have opened discussions with Liverpool over a possible move for experienced left back Andy Robertson, according to media reports. Robertson, 31, is set to become a free agent this summer as his contract at Anfield expires. The Scotland international said recently that he is still unsure about his future and wants regular playing time ahead of the next World Cup. Spurs are understood to have made an initial approach, but no agreement has been reached so far. Robertson has started only four Premier League matches this season and has mainly played a backup role. Liverpool signed Robertson from Hull City in 2017 for £8 million. He has since made 363 appearances for the club and won nine major trophies, including two Premier League titles and the Champions League. His latest outing came as a substitute in the 1-1 league draw against Burnley on January 17. Liverpool coach Arne Slot has said Robertson remains an important player and praised his attitude after losing his regular place to summer signing Milos Kerkez. If Robertson leaves, Kerkez would be Liverpool’s only senior left back, although the club could recall Kostas Tsimikas from his loan spell at Roma. Tottenham recently signed Brazilian left back Souza and already have several options in that position. Destiny Udogie has been the first choice this season, with Djed Spence also available. Ben Davies, another option, has been ruled out for the rest of the campaign due to a broken ankle. A move for Robertson would add experience to a young Spurs squad, where Davies was the only player over 30 before his injury.   With inputs from BBC

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the first trilateral talks involving Ukraine, Russia and the United States could be a step toward ending the war, as negotiators head to Abu Dhabi. Zelensky said the status of eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region will be the key issue at the talks, adding that different outcomes are possible. He said he hopes for a positive result. The meeting is expected to be the first time since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022 that all three sides take part in talks linked to a possible settlement. Zelensky said he discussed Donbas with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos. He also said the two leaders finalised future US security guarantees for Ukraine if a deal is reached, and talked about additional air defence needs. The talks come after Russia’s President Vladimir Putin met Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Moscow. The Kremlin described that discussion as useful and very frank. Speaking on Air Force One, Trump said he believed both Putin and Zelensky want to make a deal, but said it remains to be seen what happens. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials reported continued Russian strikes. Emergency services said four people, including a five-year-old boy, were killed in a drone attack in eastern Ukraine. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko again urged residents to consider leaving the city as thousands of buildings remain without heating during freezing temperatures.   With inputs from BBC

Members of the joint forces, led by the Bangladesh Army, arrested 278 suspected criminals in nationwide drive between Jan 16 and Jan 22, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Friday. The operations were conducted in different parts of the country including the capital by units under various infantry divisions and independent brigades in coordination with other law enforcement agencies. Those arrested include suspected terrorists, drug traders, drug users, robbery gang members, juvenile gang members, thieves and smugglers. ISPR said the joint forces also recovered 22 illegal firearms, 822 rounds of different types of ammunition, seven crude bombs, locally-made weapons and narcotics during the drives. The arrestees were handed over to the respective police stations for interrogation and legal proceedings, it said. Traffic restricted for Khaleda Zia’s janaza: ISPR ISPr it is continuing regular patrols and security operations in different areas to ensure public safety. It also said troops are performi duties in industrial areas to help keep labour unrest under control. The security efforts will continue to help keep the overall law and order situation normal, urging people to inform the nearest Army camp if they notice any suspicious or unusual activities, it added.

The nominations for the 98th Academy Awards have been announced, ending hopes for India’s official entry Homebound, which failed to make the final list in the Best International Feature Film category. Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, had reached the shortlist stage and drew attention internationally. The film stars Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor. In the overall race, Sinners emerged as the top nominee with 16 nods, while One Battle After Another also featured among major contenders across categories, according to the report. The Academy Awards ceremony will be held on March 15. Comedian Conan O’Brien is set to host the event. The report also noted that Wagner Moura became the first Brazilian actor to earn a Best Actor nomination, while Timothee Chalamet set a record as the youngest male actor to receive three acting nominations.   With inputs from NDTV

Actor Suniel Shetty has said he does not believe nepotism exists in Bollywood and argued that family support is a normal part of life. Speaking on a podcast, Shetty said people may call his son Ahan a “nepo kid”, but every father wants his child to do well. He added that being privileged can bring opportunities, but success depends on how a person uses them. Shetty also praised Ahan’s co-stars in Border 2, including Diljit Dosanjh and Varun Dhawan. He said Varun often talks more about Ahan’s role than his own, and called it a sign that the common idea of “spoiled star kids” is not always true. He said Varun has been speaking highly about Ahan in many places. Border 2, featuring Ahan Shetty, was released in cinemas on Friday. On the release day, Suniel Shetty shared an emotional note for his son on Instagram. He said the Border film franchise is not just about war or glory, but about discipline, sacrifice, courage and the value of peace. Suniel Shetty acted in the original Border, released in 1997.   With inputs from NDTV

HBO’s banking drama Industry has returned for its fourth season with a darker tone and a star-studded cast. The show follows young bankers navigating London’s high-finance world. Season four features new actors including Max Minghella and Charlie Heaton. Critics say the series has become more intense, exploring toxic workplace culture, mental health crises, and shocking events. The storyline now shows former victims becoming perpetrators, with central characters Harper Stern and Yasmin facing extreme challenges in their careers and personal lives. Experts note the series depicts the corrupting influence of power and ambition in high finance. Industry first aired in 2020 with little attention but has grown popular over four seasons, gaining high ratings and a prime Sunday night slot on HBO. The series is praised for blending finance, politics, media, and social power struggles into a gripping drama. Season four is available weekly on HBO and HBO Max in the US and on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK.   With inputs from BBC

British singer Harry Styles has released a new single, Aperture, and announced a 50-show world tour for 2026. The first single from his upcoming fourth album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, Aperture marks Styles’ return after nearly four years. He described the track as the “perfect little bow” to complete the album. The album is set for release on March 6. Styles will perform across seven cities, including six shows at London’s Wembley Stadium and 30 shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden. The tour will also visit Amsterdam, São Paulo, Mexico City, Melbourne, and Sydney between May and December. For his London shows, Styles will be joined by Shania Twain. Other special guests across the tour include Jamie XX, Jorja Smith, and Robyn. Ticket sales are scheduled later this month. Styles said spending the past years attending live shows and being in audiences inspired the music on his new album. He told BBC Radio 1 that seeing bands like LCD Soundsystem live reminded him why live music is special. The singer first rose to fame as a member of One Direction before launching his solo career in 2017. His previous album, Harry’s House, won a Grammy and a Brit Award in 2022.   With inputs from BBC

Researchers have discovered the world’s oldest cave painting on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. The painting shows a red hand with claw-like fingers and is at least 67,800 years old. The stencilled hand was found in Liang Metanduno cave on Muna Island, southeast of Sulawesi. Scientists say the artist pressed a hand against the wall and sprayed pigment around it, then altered the fingers to create a claw-like effect. The discovery predates the previous oldest hand stencil in Spain by about 1,100 years. Experts say it shows early symbolic thinking and creativity in humans far earlier than previously believed. Professor Adam Brumm of Griffith University, Australia, said the finding challenges the idea that human creativity began in Europe. He noted that such symbolic art existed across Indonesia tens of thousands of years ago. Archaeologists say the painting also supports the theory that humans reached the Australia–New Guinea landmass, Sahul, much earlier than thought. The artists in Sulawesi likely belonged to populations that later spread across the region. Previous discoveries on Sulawesi included hand stencils and animal figures dating back 40,000 to 51,000 years. The new find shows that cave art was widespread and a long-standing cultural practice in the region. Professor Maxime Aubert, co-lead of the study, said humans had the capacity for abstract and symbolic thought long before reaching Europe, suggesting creativity was an innate trait of the species.   With in puts from BBC

Police have arrested an administrative officer of Sharmin Academy in Naya Paltan area in Dhaka over allegations of physically and mentally abusing a four-year-old student. Pabitra Kumar Barua,47, was arrested around 4:30 am on Friday from Mirpur-6 during a special drive.  A video of the incident circulated widely on social media, triggering strong public outrage. . The victim, Muhammad Farz Bin Aman, joined the academy’s play class on November 19, 2025. On January 18, 2026, his mother dropped him at the school around 11:20 am. When she returned in the afternoon, she found the school’s principal Sharmin Jahan and Pabitra holding the child inside an office room. Marriage media fraudster arrested in Dhaka Later, he told his parents that he had been beaten and threatened not to disclose the incident. Police said CCTV footage collected with the help  locals  shows the child being abused. The child sustained injuries to his head, neck and ears and was first taken to Naya Paltan Islami Bank Hospital before being referred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for further treatment. Following a complaint filed by the child’s mother on January 22 under the Children Act, police registered a case against the principal, her husband and . Pabitra Police said Pabitra was arrested using technological assistance and later sent to court.

US President Donald Trump’s claim that Nato troops stayed “a little off the front lines” in Afghanistan has drawn strong criticism from UK politicians and veterans’ families. Trump made the remarks during a Fox News interview on Thursday. He said he was “not sure” Nato would support the US if needed and suggested that allied troops in Afghanistan stayed behind the front lines. UK Health and Social Care Minister Stephen Kinnock called the comments “deeply disappointing” and “plainly wrong.” He said British and other Nato troops had always stood alongside US forces and many had lost their lives in American-led missions. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch described Trump’s remarks as “flat-out nonsense.” Labour MP Emily Thornberry called them “an absolute insult” to British service personnel. Liberal Democrats leader Ed Davey said Trump, who avoided military service five times, had no right to question the sacrifices of 457 British troops killed in Afghanistan. The UK joined the US in Afghanistan in 2001 after the 9/11 attacks, invoking Nato’s collective security clause. Thousands of British soldiers served there over the next two decades. Stephen Kinnock said UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer would convey the country’s position to Trump, highlighting the service and sacrifices of the armed forces.   With inputs from BBC

Chinese authorities said two people have died and four remain missing after a Singapore-flagged cargo ship carrying 21 Filipino crew members capsized in the South China Sea near the highly contested Scarborough Shoal. China’s Coast Guard said the vessel overturned about 100 kilometres northwest of the shoal. Contact with the ship was lost on Thursday night as it was travelling toward Guangdong province in southern China. Rescue efforts involving the Chinese Coast Guard and naval forces under the People’s Liberation Army’s Southern Theater Command were continuing. The PLA said 15 people had been rescued, with 14 reported in stable condition. The Philippine Coast Guard said on Friday it dispatched two vessels and aircraft to support the search-and-rescue mission. It identified the cargo ship as the Devon Bay. 10 Indian soldiers killed as vehicle falls into deep gorge in J&K The incident occurred in waters that have seen repeated confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels as both sides press competing claims. Scarborough Shoal is among the most disputed features in the South China Sea and is also claimed by Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan. Tensions in the area have been heightened by frequent close encounters at sea, including an incident in August when a Chinese navy ship accidentally collided with a Chinese Coast Guard vessel while attempting to block a Philippine Coast Guard ship near the shoal.

Despite decades of pledges to ensure women’s political empowerment, the upcoming national election paints a starkly different picture, with female representation on the ballot remaining alarmingly low. The election will see participation from registered 51 political parties, yet more than 30 of them, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, have failed to nominate even a single woman candidate in the 13th parliamentary election, raising fresh concerns over gender inclusion in national politics. Of the 2,568 nomination papers submitted for the election, only 109 were filed by women—just 4.24 per cent of the total, according to data reviewed by UNB. After scrutiny, the Election Commission (EC) has validated 1,842 candidates, including 1,779 men and only 63 women, meaning women make up just 3.4 percent of the final candidates. What we know about at least one of Hadi's would-be assassins Later, 417 candidates regained their candidacies after appealing to the Election Commission. January 20 was the last day for the withdrawal of candidacies. According to the Election Commission (EC), a total of 1,981 candidates, including 76 women, are contesting the 13th national parliamentary election, with women making up only 3.84% of the total. Meanwhile, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) noted that women make up only 3.38% of party-affiliated candidates, while the share is 10% among independent candidates. While the world embraces music education, Bangladesh seen stepping backwards According to EC data, the upcoming election will have 12 crore 77 lacs 11 thousand 793 registered voters, including 64 crore 8 lacs 25 thousand 361 men, 62 crore 8 lacs 85 thousand 200 women, and 1,232 third-gender voters. Legal framework and previous elections Under Section 22(ka)-(gha) of the July 2025 National Consensus Ordinance, every political party was to nominate at least 5 percent women candidates in the parliamentary election, gradually increasing to 33 percent in future polls. But the ordinance has not yet been implemented, making the rule effectively non-binding. 288 BNP, 224 Jamaat candidates in Bangladesh election race Historical participation has remained low. According to Transparency International Bangladesh, women candidates accounted for 3.51 percent (55 women) in 2008, 5.55 percent (30 women) in 2014, and just 0.81 percent (73 women) in 2018. In the 12th Jatiya Sangsad, 20 women were elected, representing 6.67 percent, the highest in four consecutive parliaments. In the 9th Jatiya Sangsad, women lawmakers accounted for 3.32 percent, in the 10th Jatiya Sangsad 6.55 percent, and in the 11th Jatiya Sangsad just 3.68 percent. Party-wise breakdown Of the 51 parties contesting, only few fielded women aspirants. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had nominated women for the highest 15 constituencies but now has 11 valid women candidates following scrutiny, after the rejection of Fatema Khanam’s nomination (Natore-3) and non-scrutiny of three nominations of Khaleda Zia. Other women candidates nominated by political parties include: 9 from Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal-Marxist, 6 each from Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) and Insaniat Biplab Bangladesh, 5 each from Ganasamhati Andolan and Jatiya Party, 3 each from Ganaodhikar Parishad (GOP), National Citizen Party (NCP), which emerged from mass uprising, nominated only three women out of its 44 candidates. Election 2026: 1967 candidates left standing after withdrawals, highest since 2008 Others including AB Party, 2 each from Gong Forum and Biplobi Workers Party, 1 each from Bangladesh Muslim League, Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), Bangladesh Supreme Party (BSP), Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal-Basosd, Bangladesh Republican Party, National People’s Party (NPP), Aamjanatar Dal, Islami Front Bangladesh, and Bangladesh Labour Party, nominated female candidates. During scrutiny, several women aspirants lost candidacy: three from Basad, and one each from Jatiya Party, Ganasamhati Andolan, Biplabi Workers Party, AB Party, NPP, and Bangladesh Labour Party. Human trafficking, instability erode global trust in Bangladesh’s passports Among 37 independent women aspirants, only six nominations were declared valid: Sabina Yasmin (Natore-2), Dr. Tasnim Zara (Dhaka-9), Meherjan Ara Talukdar (Jamalpur-4), Akhtar Sultana (Mymensingh-6), Tahmina Zaman (Netrakona-4), and Rumeen Farhana (Brahmanbaria-2). Among the parties, 276 aspirants from Jamaat-e-Islami, 268 from Islami Andolon Bangladesh, 224 from Jatiya Party, 104 from Gano Odhikar Parishad, 94 from Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, and other smaller parties, each with fewer than 40 aspirants, also have no female candidates. Potential impact In a recent report, the international human rights organization Human Rights Watch (HRW) noted that out of 51 political parties contesting the upcoming general election, 30 have not nominated a single woman candidate. The report highlighted that one of Bangladesh’s major parties, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has not fielded any women candidates in the constituencies where it is contesting. While Bangladesh has previously had two female prime ministers and witnessed significant participation of women in the student-led movements of 2024, HRW noted that women in the country are still largely deprived of the right to participate meaningfully in politics. Telling again, no uncertainty over election: Press Secretary Political parties must be held accountable for failing to nominate at least five percent women candidates in the upcoming national election despite pledging to do so under the July National Charter, said the Women’s Political Rights Forum (FWPR). The forum urged political parties to treat women’s nomination as a constitutional obligation rather than a token gesture and called for structural reforms to integrate women into leadership roles and ensure a gender-responsive political system. At a press conference titled “Nomination Crisis of Women Candidates: Gap between Parties’ Commitments and Implementation and the Accountability of the Election Commission” held at Dhaka Reporters’ Unity, forum leaders expressed concern over women’s extremely low participation. Forum leader Reetu Satter readout a written speech in the press conference where she said the women had prominent roles in the uprising of July in 2024, but women candidates were deprived of getting party nominations for Jatiya Sangsad. Forum leader Samina Yasmin said women voters constitute nearly 50 percent, or possibly more, of the electorate. “If women make up 51 percent of voters, our next critical task is to raise awareness about women’s rights, organize them, and ensure their active political participation. Is it realistic to come to power by excluding 51 percent of the population and relying on the remaining 49 percent? This is a fundamental question,” she said. Confusion clouds Shammo murder probe as key suspect remains elusive Samina said the forum is trying to work directly and indirectly with women leaders who are contesting the election and actively campaigning. “We are observing what kinds of challenges they are facing, how they are addressing them and what effective pathways could be developed to tackle these challenges in the future.” Despite widespread discussions on women’s rights, the number of female candidates in this election remains alarmingly low, forcing a serious reassessment of the situation, Samina added. Meanwhile, the Social Resistance Committee, a platform of 71 organizations working on women, human rights, and development issues, has expressed concern over the low number of women candidates in the upcoming election. In a statement, the committee said that given the prevailing misogynistic culture in society, women are hesitant to contest as independent candidates. It described this as a reflection of the patriarchal political culture and a strategy to maintain male-dominated politics. Highlighting the need for women’s visible participation in elections and politics, the Social Resistance Committee urged all political parties and the Election Commission to ensure women’s equal participation in political decision-making and governance, emphasizing that this is essential for building a democratic and equitable society.

Gold prices in Bangladesh surged again on Saturday noon, rising by Tk 6,299 per bhori (11.664 gram), barely hours after a reduction announced on Friday night, according to the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS). After six consecutive hikes, BAJUS had lowered the price of gold by Tk 3,149 per bhori on Friday night. However, the jewellers’ body reversed course on Saturday, setting a new record high for gold prices in the country. In a press release, BAJUS said the price of 22-carat gold has been increased by Tk 6,299 to Tk 255,617 per bhori—the highest ever in Bangladesh. The new rate will take effect immediately. BAJUS said the adjustment was made considering the rise in the local market price of tejabi gold (pure gold) and the overall market situation. Under the revised rates, the price of 21-carat gold has been fixed at Tk 244,011 per bhori, 18-carat gold at Tk 209,136 per bhori, while gold under the traditional method will sell at Tk 171,869 per bhori. In addition to the selling price, buyers will have to pay a government-mandated 5 percent VAT and a minimum 6 percent making charge set by BAJUS. The making charge, however, may vary depending on the design and quality of jewellery. BAJUS last adjusted gold prices on January 22, when it reduced the price of 22-carat gold by Tk 3,149 per bhori, setting it at Tk 249,318. With the latest revision, gold prices have been adjusted 12 times in the domestic market so far in 2026—raised nine times and reduced three times. In line with the hike in gold prices, silver prices have also been raised. The price of 22-carat silver has been increased by Tk 525 per bhori to Tk 6,882, marking the highest silver price in the country’s history. Meanwhile, the price of 21-carat silver has been set at Tk 6,532 per bhori, 18-carat silver at Tk 5,599 per bhori, and silver under the traditional method at Tk 4,199 per bhori.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Friday said North Bengal would be developed into a hub of agro-based industries if his party comes to power. “North Bengal supplies food and nutrition to the entire country, yet the region has been deliberately neglected,” he said while addressing a public rally of the ten-party alliance in Panchagarh. He said Jamaat does not want to see unemployment in the region in the future and aims to turn citizens, especially youths, into skilled contributors to national development. “We want to reopen the sugar mills and bring the workers back to their workplaces,” he said. The Jamaat Ameer said the party does not rely on any ‘card’. “You—brothers and sisters—are our only cards.” “We will strengthen both men and women,” he said, adding that Jamaat wants to build Bangladesh together like a family, “InshaAllah.” “We were, we are, and we will remain with the people of Bangladesh during all challenges. We will fight together, InshaAllah,” he said. The Jamaat chief said five years would be enough to change the scenario of North Bengal, noting that the region’s fertile land and hardworking people leave no reason for it to lag behind. Referring to healthcare, he said many patients lose their lives while travelling long distances to access quality medical facilities in the capital. “If we come to power, a medical college will be established in every district of Bangladesh, including Panchagarh,” he said. He also vowed that no one would be allowed to steal public money in the future. Speaking about the July warriors and freedom fighters, Dr Rahman said, “Though we may not be able to fully repay the debt of your sacrifices, we will try our best, InshaAllah.”  

Costa Rica has expressed its support for Bangladesh’s upcoming candidacy as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, as the two countries seek to strengthen relations across all potential areas. Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Mexico with concurrent accreditation to Costa Rica, recently held a “very warm and productive” meeting with Arnoldo André Tinoco, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica. “During our discussions, we covered a wide range of bilateral and multilateral issues, including visa waivers for diplomatic and official passport holders,” Ambassador Mushfiqul said in a brief message following the meeting, shared via his verified Facebook page. They also discussed ways to strengthen trade cooperation, particularly through the import of textile and pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh, as well as closer collaboration in international forums, on which they reached a shared understanding. “We also exchanged views on future UN leadership, during which the Foreign Minister sought Bangladesh’s support for the possible candidacy of Rebeca Grynspan, the current Secretary-General of UNCTAD,” the Ambassador said, noting that he deeply appreciated the warm hospitality of Costa Rica. Bangladesh-Costa Rica relations, managed through Bangladesh’s embassy in Mexico (with concurrent accreditation), focus on fostering cultural ties, facilitating consular services such as visas and emergency assistance, and exploring avenues for bilateral cooperation. Recent diplomatic engagements reflect a strong commitment by both sides to strengthening connections despite the geographical distance.

Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution PLC on Friday said that gas supply across all its supply areas will remain under low pressure for 24 hours due to reduced LNG supply. In a media release, the state-run company said low gas pressure will prevail in Dhaka and all Titas-affiliated areas from 12:00pm on Saturday to 12:00pm on Sunday. The disruption is being caused by a temporary reduction in gas received from LNG sources due to maintenance work at an LNG terminal, the statement said. Titas apologised to consumers for the temporary inconvenience. Alongside gas supplied from local gas fields, Titas distributes LNG-based gas from the Maheshkhali LNG terminals in Cox’s Bazar. There are two floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs) at Maheshkhali, though Titas did not specify which terminal is undergoing maintenance. Titas supplies gas to most districts in Dhaka and Mymensingh divisions. As a result, consumers in these areas are expected to face disruptions during the 24-hour low-pressure period. Titas low pressure chokes gas supply across Dhaka; residents struggle Meanwhile, gas consumers have been facing severe supply constraints for several months due to pipeline leakages, valve failures and maintenance-related issues. The shortage of LPG cylinders in the market has forced many city residents to rely on electric cookers or firewood for daily cooking.

Winter has brought a bumper vegetable harvest across the country, supported by smooth transportation and abundant supply, yet Dhaka’s consumers are seeing little relief at the markets. Visits to several city markets showed that vegetable prices remain stubbornly high, even as farmers complain they are barely recovering production costs, raising fresh questions about possible market manipulation and the role of middlemen in the supply chain. Dhaka’s kitchen markets are actually awash with winter vegetables, but prices show little sign of easing even in what is traditionally the cheapest season of the year. While consumers continue to pay inflated rates, farmers across producing districts say they are selling their produce at throwaway prices, pointing to a widening gap between farm-gate and retail prices driven largely by middlemen. Major wholesale markets in the capital receive winter vegetables from Bogura, Naogaon, Chuadanga, Sirajganj, Rajshahi, Jashore and other districts. Traders say more than 50 truckloads of vegetables arrive in Dhaka every day from Bogura alone during the peak season. Despite ample supply, winter vegetables costly in Lalmonirhat Wholesalers at Karwan Bazar said supply is higher than last year, yet prices have not come down. By late January, wholesale prices were on average Tk 20 per kg higher than the same period a year ago. “Last year at this time, cauliflower sold at Tk 15–20 per kg wholesale. This year it is Tk 30–35,” said Latif Munshi, a vegetable trader at Karwan Bazar, adding, “We are buying at higher prices from upstream traders, so we have no option but to sell at higher rates to retailers.” Anwar Mia, a trader at the Swarighat wholesale market, echoed the sentiment. “Prices of cabbage, tomato, cucumber, carrot, bottle gourd—almost all winter vegetables—are higher than last year. There is no supply shortage, but increased intermediary costs are pushing prices up.” The picture is starkly different at the production level. In Bogura’s Sherpur upazila, vegetable grower and trader Naim Meyajan said he cultivated cauliflower on nearly 10 bighas of land. While early varieties fetched good prices between September and November, prices collapsed once peak harvesting began in December. “Wholesalers bought fields early at Tk 80,000 to Tk 100,000 per bigha against a production cost of around Tk 50,000. But when the main harvest started, there were no buyers for fields. I had to take cauliflowers to market where prices fell to Tk 5 per kg,” he said. Farmers at Fulbari and Mohasthan haats in Bogura said prices of most vegetables started falling sharply by late December. In many cases, they were forced to sell produce at an inflated ‘maund’ calculation—60 kg instead of the standard 40 kg—yet still failed to recover costs. Early winter vegetable cultivation gains momentum across Khulna division In Dhaka, however, prices moved in the opposite direction. Cauliflower that sold at Tk 25 per piece in late December is now priced at Tk 40–50 depending on size. At Shantinagar kitchen market, cabbage is selling at around Tk 50 per piece. By contrast, in Sirajganj’s Ullapara upazila, farmer Bhobesh Ghoshal said he sold cabbage at Tk 6–10 per piece in January. “Those same cabbages are being sold in Dhaka at Tk 20 or more”. A visit to the Jatrabari wholesale hub shows cabbage trading at Tk 25–30 per piece wholesale, before reaching consumers at Tk 50. For key winter vegetables, the price gap between farmers and consumers ranges from Tk 30 to Tk 40 per unit. Tomato prices show an even sharper disparity. Early varieties arrive in Dhaka from Chattogram, while seasonal tomatoes mainly come from Rajshahi. In both phases, retail prices in Dhaka have ranged between Tk 100 and Tk 150 per kg. In Rajshahi’s Godagari upazila, tomato farmer Moktar Hossain said he is currently selling tomatoes at Tk 40 per kg, down from Tk 50–80 during the early season. “Middlemen are selling those tomatoes in Dhaka at Tk 60 per kg, and prices keep rising along the chain.” At wholesale markets in Dhaka, tomatoes are sold to retailers at Tk 80–90 per kg and finally reach consumers at Tk 100–120. The cumulative price difference from farm to table stands at Tk 50–70 per kg. Radish prices, though relatively lower, reflect a similar pattern. In retail markets, radish sells at Tk 30–40 per kg. In Cumilla’s Gomti char area, farmer Sohrab said radish is sold in bundles rather than by weight. “One bundle of 8–10 radishes sells for Tk 30, which is roughly Tk 10 per kg,” he said. “But consumers are paying at least Tk 20 more per kg in Dhaka.” According to a study by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), more than 700,000 kg of vegetables are sold daily in Dhaka. Even assuming a conservative price gap of Tk 20 per kg between farmers and consumers, the additional daily burden on consumers stands at around Tk 15 million—amounting to nearly Tk 500 million over January due to elevated prices. Commenting on the situation, Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) President AHM Shafiquzzaman blamed market syndicates and weak oversight. “A group of traders is taking advantage of the pre-election period by forming syndicates and destabilising the vegetable market. Vegetables have been selling at high prices for nearly a month, but there is no effective monitoring. Extortion at different stages of the supply chain is also pushing prices up,” he said. Shafiquzzaman warned that prices could rise further during Ramadan, expressing doubts about official assurances of market stability. “Government data is often unreliable,” he said. Calling for decisive action, he urged the authorities to dismantle syndicates of middlemen, ensure fair prices for farmers and protect consumer rights through stricter market regulation. Former Jahangirnagar University vice-chancellor and agricultural economist Abdul Bayes, however, advised that ensuring fair prices for both consumers and farmers in the agricultural market should not rely solely on government intervention; instead, marginal farmers must be empowered. Vegetable prices soar in Manikganj amid inclement weather Emphasising the formation of farmers’ cooperatives, Bayes said, “A single farmer from Bogura cannot bring 100 kilograms of cauliflower to Dhaka to sell. But if 100 farmers from the same area form a cooperative, they can collectively bypass middlemen and bring their produce directly to the market. This would allow farmers to secure better prices from wholesalers, while consumers would be able to buy vegetables at lower prices.” He also noted that NGOs could play an important role by supporting farmers in forming such cooperatives. Besides, Bayes said, if the government can dismantle syndicates in wholesale markets, foster competition, and curb extortion along supply chains, long-term market instability in the vegetable sector could be brought under control.

Painted birds have begun appearing across the worn walls of Wang Tong Village, a quiet corner of Lantau Island in Hong Kong, turning abandoned homes into a trail of murals that spotlight both neglected places and the remarkable journeys of migratory species. The project was conceived by Dominic Johnson-Hill after an ornithologist neighbor told him about the Amur falcon, which travels from Manchuria and stops in Lantau before continuing across Myanmar, India and Madagascar to South Africa. Johnson-Hill said the story changed how he saw the birds around him, not as permanent residents but as passing visitors. Inspired, he looked at an empty house beside his own and imagined a red-billed blue magpie stretching across its wall, an idea that grew into what is now known as the Flock Project. To translate the concept into art, Johnson-Hill brought in British muralist Rob Aspire, widely known as “The Birdman,” who is recognized for detailed and expressive bird paintings. The first mural was followed by more. A year later, Aspire returned to paint seven additional works. Egypt’s Siwa Salt Lakes: why you float instead of sinking Each bird was selected to match the surroundings through ecology, appearance or symbolism. A kingfisher appears near a stream where fishing has been banned, while a Swinhoe’s white-eye blends into walls close to trees where its call can still be heard. Most of the paintings sit on abandoned houses, with one exception on Sunset Peak. There, at 868 meters above sea level, a long-tailed shrike is painted onto the rooftop of a 90-year-old stone home overlooking the mountains. The project aims to gradually place more of Hong Kong’s native and migratory birds into view, integrating them into overlooked corners of the island as though they have always been part of the landscape. The murals have started drawing hundreds of visitors, many from the city’s dense urban centre, who walk village trails in search of the painted birds. On weekends, some leave chalk arrows to guide others, turning the paths into a kind of informal treasure hunt. Organisers say building attention and appreciation can be a first step toward conservation. Bali named world’s top travel destination for 2026 by TripAdvisor Johnson-Hill has also created an online map for visitors and is considering the next phase, which will depend on whether new sites become available and whether conditions allow additional birds to be painted. As the story suggests, birds come and go, and so do people. Villages may empty out, but their walls remain, now carrying painted birds and the memories they leave behind. 

At least 35 people were detained in overnight special raids conducted by the Task Force in the Ershad Nagar and Haji Mazar slum areas of Tongi in Gazipur ahead of the national elections, officials said. During the operations, the authorities also recovered one kilogram of heroin, 347 Yaba tablets, domestic weapons, and three hand grenades, District Administration Executive Magistrate Abu Bakkar Siddique said. The detainees were later handed over to Tongi East and West police stations. They will be formally produced in court later in the afternoon, the magistrate added. Magistrate Siddique, who led the raids, said the operations were carried out with the cooperation of the army, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) personnel, police, and the dog squad. The Task Force raids will continue until the elections to maintain law and order, he added.  

Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard has warned the United States that its forces remain on high alert, even as President Donald Trump said Tehran appears willing to enter negotiations. In a statement aired by state television on Thursday, Revolutionary Guard commander Gen Mohammad Pakpour said his forces have their “finger on the trigger,” cautioning both Washington and Israel against what he described as potential miscalculations. He urged the US and Israel to draw lessons from past conflicts, including what he called the “12-day imposed war,” and said the Guard stood fully prepared to carry out any orders from Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Despite the sharp rhetoric, signs of immediate US military action appeared to ease this week. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump said the United States had struck Iranian uranium enrichment facilities last year to prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon. New Israeli settlement Yatziv inaugurated near Beit Sahour “We can’t let that happen,” Trump said, adding that Iran “does want to talk,” and that the US would engage in discussions. At the same time, Iran’s military leadership issued further warnings. Gen Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi, head of Iran’s joint command headquarters, said any US attack would make “all US interests, bases and centres of influence” legitimate targets. Earlier this week, Trump had warned Iran’s leaders that the United States would respond decisively if there were any attempt on his life, linking such a scenario to potential retaliation over actions targeting Khamenei. The heightened tensions come as Iran’s leadership deals with the fallout from nationwide protests that erupted in late December. Authorities have since suppressed the unrest through a forceful crackdown, alongside a sweeping internet blackout described by monitoring group NetBlocks as a “national kill-switch,” now in its second week. Hackers disrupt Iran state TV as protest crackdown death toll tops 4,000 On Wednesday, Iranian officials released their first official casualty figures from the protests, saying 3,117 people were killed. #With inputs from Agencies

TikTok has finalized an agreement to create a new American entity, easing years of uncertainty and sidestepping the prospect of a US ban on the short-video platform used by more than 200 million Americans. In a statement issued Thursday, the company said it has signed deals with major investors, including Oracle, Silver Lake and Abu Dhabi-based investment firm MGX, to form a TikTok US joint venture. TikTok said the new version will operate with “defined safeguards” aimed at protecting US national security, including strengthened data protections, algorithm security, content moderation and software assurances for American users. The company said users in the United States will continue using the same app. President Donald Trump welcomed the announcement in a post on Truth Social, publicly thanking Chinese President Xi Jinping and saying he hoped TikTok users would remember him for keeping the platform available. Snap settles social media addiction lawsuit ahead of trial China has not publicly commented on TikTok’s announcement. Earlier on Thursday, Chinese Embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said Beijing’s position on TikTok remained “consistent and clear.” TikTok said the new US venture will be led by Adam Presser, a former top executive who previously oversaw operations and trust and safety. The entity will have a seven-member board that the company said will be majority American, and it will include TikTok CEO Shou Chew. The deal follows years of political and regulatory pressure in Washington over national security concerns tied to TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance. A law passed by large bipartisan majorities in Congress and signed by then-President Joe Biden required TikTok to change ownership or face a US ban by January 2025. TikTok briefly went offline ahead of the deadline, but Trump later signed an executive order on his first day in office to keep the service running while negotiations continued. TikTok said US user data will be stored locally through a system run by Oracle, while the new joint venture will also focus on the platform’s content recommendation algorithm. Under the plan, the algorithm will be retrained, tested and updated using US user data. The algorithm has been central to the debate, with China previously insisting it must remain under Chinese control. The US law, however, said any divestment must sever ties with ByteDance, particularly regarding the algorithm. Under the new arrangement, ByteDance would license the algorithm to the US entity for retraining, raising questions about how the plan aligns with the law’s ban on “any cooperation” involving the operation of a content recommendation algorithm between ByteDance and a new US ownership group. UK to consult on possible social media ban for under-16s “Who controls TikTok in the U.S. has a lot of sway over what Americans see on the app,” Georgetown University law and technology professor Anupam Chander was quoted as saying. Under the disclosed ownership structure, Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX will serve as the three managing investors, each taking a 15% stake. Other investors include the investment firm of Dell Technologies founder Michael Dell. ByteDance will retain 19.9% of the joint venture. 

In the last two years, Bangladesh Coast Guard has arrested 57 bandits and recovered 43 firearms in operations across the Sundarbans, the Coast Guard Headquarters said. Of the total, 49 bandits were arrested in 2025 alone, compared to only eight in 2024. During the period, the Coast Guard also seized five hand grenades, 78 indigenous weapons, and a large quantity of ammunition and weapons-making equipment. In 2025, 448 cartridges were recovered, and 52 men and women were rescued from hostage situations. In 2024, the recovered items included five firearms and yaba tablets. The Coast Guard said at least 27 successful operations were conducted in the Sundarbans over the past year. These led to the arrest of active members of around 10 robber groups, including Achabur Bahini, Hannan Bahini, Anarul Bahini, Manju Bahini, and Ranga Bahini. Coast Guard Commander Lt. Col. Siam said patrols and operations have been further strengthened to keep the Sundarbans free of robbers and ensure the safety of tourists and forest dwellers.  

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said the February 12 general elections would set a benchmark for all future polls in Bangladesh, stressing the government is fully prepared to hold 'free, fair, and transparent' elections. He said the European Union would deploy a large number of election observers and expressed hope that other development partners would also send observers to monitor the polls. “It will be a festive election. It will set the standard for good elections in the future. Let’s keep our fingers crossed,” the Chief Adviser said when the newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, paid his maiden courtesy call on the Chief Adviser at the State Guest House Jamuna on Thursday. During the meeting, the two sides discussed a wide range of issues, including the upcoming general elections, sweeping labour laws approved by the Interim Government, the planned Bangladesh-US tariff agreement and Rohingya crisis. The Chief Advisor also highlighted key foreign policy initiatives of the Interim Government including Dhaka’s planned bid for ASEAN membership, and the need to revive SAARC as a key platform for regional and economic cooperation in South Asia. Ambassador Christensen, who arrived in Bangladesh earlier this month, said he was looking forward to working with whoever wins the February elections, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Friday. The US envoy praised the Interim Government’s efforts to implement vital reforms and commended Professor Yunus’s leadership over the past 18 months.

Four years after its official declaration as an administrative unit, Madhyanagar Upazila in Sunamganj district remains in a state of limbo, with residents still waiting for essential services and infrastructure to take shape. The delay has left around 1.5 lakh people grappling with everyday difficulties, highlighting both frustration and cautious hope for change. Madhyanagar, carved out from parts of Jamalganj and Dharmapasha upazilas and officially operational since a government notification on 24 July 2022, has yet to see the construction of a permanent administrative building. Illegal topsoil extraction threatens ‘Gaillar Haor’, croplands in Sunamganj At present, the upazila operates from the first floor of a mother and child welfare centre (MCWC), while most departmental work is handled by officials from neighbouring Dharmapasha, juggling additional responsibilities. Of the 212 posts approved for 23 government departments, only nine are filled, leaving 203 vacancies, according to local administrative sources. Currently, only four first-class officers – an engineer, a project implementation officer, an election officer, and a primary education officer – are stationed in Madhyanagar, supported by five third- and fourth-class employees struggling to manage daily operations. “The situation has created immense difficulties for local residents seeking routine services. We are doing our best, but without manpower and infrastructure, progress is slow,” said an official requesting anonymity. Life under threat: Feni schools continue classes in unsafe buildings The health sector paints an equally bleak picture. The upazila lacks a health complex and does not have a single MBBS doctor, locals said. Although there are two mother and child welfare centres and two union-health centres, a shortage of medical staff forces residents to travel to Dharmapasha Upazila, or Sunamganj Sadar Hospital even for general or emergency treatment. Yet amid the despair, there are glimmers of hope. Madhyanagar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Ujjwal Roy confirmed that a proposal for 16 acres of land has been submitted to the relevant authorities for constructing both an administrative building and a health complex. “We hope work will begin soon once the proposal is approved,” the official said, indicating possible relief for the long-suffering community. Crumbling roads in Kaliganj: Residents sound alarm over use of substandard materials Local people’s voices reflect a mixture of annoyance and cautious optimism. Advocate Muhammad Nazmul Hossain stressed the urgent need for action, saying, “The demand to develop Madhyanagar as a complete and model upazila has been long-standing. Effective initiatives must be taken without further delay.” Similarly, Abdul Qayum Majnu, joint convener of Madhyanagar Upazila BNP, voiced frustration over the slow pace of progress. “Despite four years passing since the upazila’s declaration, necessary infrastructure and manpower are still lacking. The administration must act sincerely,” he said. Jhenaidah reels from 301 suicides in one year, women bear the brunt Covering 222 square kilometres and comprising four unions and 147 villages, Madhyanagar has significant potential to grow into a model upazila. But until the planned infrastructure and staffing materialise, its residents continue to navigate the challenges of an underdeveloped administrative system, hoping that the long-promised development is finally on the horizon.  

Brazilians celebrated the nomination of “The Secret Agent” film to four Oscar categories on Thursday, which many said confirmed the rise of Brazilian cinema and its universal appeal. “The Secret Agent” — nominated for best picture, best actor, best international film and achievement in casting — now shares Brazil's record for nominations, alongside the famed 2002 film “City of God” set in a favela in Rio de Janeiro. “The Secret Agent” follows a widowed father — played by Wagner Moura — who becomes a target of Brazil’s military dictatorship in the 1970s simply because he stands up to a business owner with ties to the regime. Director Kleber Mendonça Filho said that more than one million spectators have seen the film, in a video posted on social media Thursday following the nominations. Last year, Brazilian feature film “I’m Still Here” was also a box office success, drawing millions of moviegoers. It was nominated in three categories and won best international feature, giving Brazil its first Oscar. The back-to-back successes are leading many to say that Brazil is living a particularly fruitful moment for its cinema — including President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who said that the local industry is currently “experiencing one of the best moments in its history.” The nominations are “recognition of our culture and of Brazil’s ability to tell stories that move the world,” he said on social media. “I’m Still Here” is also set during the dictatorship, and observers say both films have contributed to nationwide discussion about the dark period in Brazil's history from 1964 to 1985, when people were tortured and disappeared. Reaction to political turmoil Lúcia Espírito Santo, a 78-year-old retired lawyer, said that she herself had to watch her words when she was studying law at university for fear of disappearing. “What we see in the film happened a lot. People would disappear and you didn’t know why. Friends of mine from college disappeared because they spoke out, they advocated for freedom and democracy,” she said, exiting the cinema after seeing the film. Sabrina Guimarães, a 20-year-old student at a Rio de Janeiro university, who went to see the film Thursday, said learning about the country’s history is essential. “Even though we learn this stuff at school, we don’t spend much time on it and it’s not very specific. Feeling like you’re there in the person’s shoes, knowing what was happening at the time is very interesting,” she said. “It’s good to understand what happened in the past so we don’t repeat these things in the future.” Director Mendonça Filho said the film is a reaction to Brazil's past decade of political turmoil, including the far-right administration of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who last year was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison for attempting a coup. But the film also dialogues with the political climate in other places around the world, he said in an interview with The Associated Press on Thursday. “The film is very Brazilian, but it’s also universal, so it can be used to discuss issues in the United States, in Europe or in Brazil,” Mendonça Filho said. “The theme of power being used to crush people and social classes is a theme that’s current, not just historical.” ‘Intense emotion’ Casting director Gabriel Domingues, who was nominated in the new category of “achievement in casting,” said the outpouring of support for the film reflects broader enthusiasm for Brazilian cinema. “Brazilian cinema is really in a moment of intense emotion, beyond just excitement. People get very moved, with this participation in international events and awards and everything,” Domingues told The Associated Press, comparing it to Brazil's atmosphere around soccer. Ana Paula Sousa, an expert in cinema and teacher at the ESPM University in Sao Paulo, said that the achievements of “I’m Still Here” and “The Secret Agent” are changing Brazilians’ relation to the film industry in a country were movie attendance is historically low. “People are talking about Brazilian cinema and thinking it’s cool to talk about it. (…) That's something we didn’t see before, and it’s really great,” she said. Sousa said she hopes the successes will spark more consistent movie attendance among Brazilians. Espírito Santo, the elderly moviegoer in Rio, said that she was incredibly proud of Brazilian cinema following the Oscar nominations. “We’re showing up, stepping onto the red carpet abroad,” she said. “Brazil is starting to look like a producer of films, of well-told stories.”

Forward Trinity Rodman has agreed to a three-year contract to remain with the Washington Spirit, ending months of speculation about the Olympic gold medalist's future in the National Women's Soccer League. “I think I've always had a vision and an idea of what I wanted my legacy to be,” Rodman said at an event announcing her new deal on Thursday in Los Angeles. “And for me, we're doing that and I'm so grateful for that.” The speculation over Rodman's future with the Spirit spurred criticism of the NWSL salary cap and whether it hampered the league from attracting and maintaining top players. The 23-yera-old Rodman became a free agent at the end of last season after five years with the Spirit. One of the biggest stars in the NWSL, keeping her in the league was considered vitally important as other U.S. national team stars, including Naomi Girma and Alyssa Thompson, opted to play in Europe. Rodman, who won a gold medal with the United States at the Paris Olympics, had been drawing interest from European teams that don’t have a salary cap. “I can't think of the Washington Spirit without her,” Spirit owner Michele Kang said. “And I hope she can't think about her career without the Washington Spirit. So this is really monumental and it was really important, not only for the Spirit, especially for our fans who expect to see her. They come to Audi Field and that's where Rowdy Audi clearly came out.” Rodman said she always wanted to stay with the Spirit “Making my decision, the one question I was asked was: ‘Do you feel like you’re finished with the Spirit? Can you say that and feel confident leaving?’” she said. “I didn’t even need half a second, and I was like, ’No, I’m not. I don’t feel ready to make a different decision. That’s just, again, getting drafted here and developing and maturing and learning – and failing – at the Spirit, in D.C., it’s become so much of my legacy and my story. But on top of that, I still feel like there’s so much more I have to give and so much more that I want to do.” The Spirit and Rodman had previously struck a multi-year deal that both parties maintained was in compliance with the salary cap, but it was rejected by the league because it went against the spirit of the rules. The National Women's Soccer League Players Association filed a grievance claiming that the NWSL's rejection of the contract violated Rodman's free agency rights and violated the collective bargaining agreement. To address the salary cap issue, the NWSL in late December adopted a “High Impact Player” mechanism that allowed teams to spend up to $1 million over the cap to sign players that meet certain criteria. Those included metrics like national team minutes, inclusion among the 30 candidates for the Ballon d’Or or player rankings by outlets like the Guardian or ESPN. The NWSLPA filed a grievance over the rule, claiming it violated the collective bargaining agreement and federal labor law because player compensation must be negotiated. The NWSLPA maintains the league had no authority to “unilaterally create a new pay structure.” Spirit President of Soccer Operations Haley Carter said the High Impact Player rule figured into the contract Rodman ultimately agreed to. Carter also said the grievances would not alter Rodman's deal. The financial terms of Rodman's contract were not disclosed, but the Spirit called it “one of the most significant deals in NWSL history.” The NWSL’s salary cap is $3.5 million for each team for the 2026 season, although it will increase each year until it hits $5.1 million in 2030. Rodman is currently with the national team in their annual January training camp in Carson, California. The team plays a match there against Paraguay on Saturday and then plays Chile on Tuesday in Santa Barbara. Rodman has 47 appearances and 11 goals with the national team, more than any other player on the latest roster. She played in one U.S. match last year, a 2-0 victory over Brazil in April, because of injuries.

Dhaka ranked second among the world’s most polluted cities on Friday morning, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 251 at 9:10 am. The city’s air quality was classified as ‘very unhealthy’, posing a serious health risk, according to the AQI report. Weather likely to remain unchanged: BMD Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Sarajevo topped the list with an AQI score of 404, while India’s Delhi ranked third with an AQI score of 192. According to the AQI scale, a reading between 50 and 100 is considered ‘moderate’, while 101–150 is ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’. Levels between 151 and 200 are termed ‘unhealthy’, 201–300 ‘very unhealthy’, and readings above 301 are considered ‘hazardous’, posing severe health risks. The AQI, which measures daily air quality, indicates how clean or polluted the air is and highlights potential health effects. In Bangladesh, the index is calculated based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and ozone. Unnecessary honking must stop to curb noise pollution: Environment Adviser Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution, which typically worsens during the winter and improves during the monsoon season. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution causes around seven million deaths globally each year, mainly due to stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

A total of 55 people, including 22 supporters of Islami Andolan Bangladesh, joined Jamaat-e-Islami in Chuadanga on Thursday, the first day of the campaign for the 13th national parliament election. The joining ceremony was held at the football playground of Gaidghat village in Makhaldanga Union under Chuadanga Sadar Upazila, where the new members were welcomed with flower garlands. NCP officially launches election campaign from Dhaka University According to party sources, the 22 leaders joined Jamaat-e-Islami under the leadership of Shahin Ali, health affairs secretary of Makhaldanga Union Islami Andolan. Besides, 15 people led by Rana Ali and 18 other local residents also joined the party. Amir of Makhaldanga Union Jamaat-e-Islami Mohsin Ali presided over the programme. Jamaat-e-Islami’s nominated MP candidate for Chuadanga-1 constituency and district assistant secretary Masud Parvez Rusel attended the event as the chief guest. Ameer-e-Jamaat launches campaign for Dhaka-15 in Mirpur Former district Jamaat amir Anwarul Haque Malik, Sadar Upazila amir Billal Hossain, assistant secretary Shahenuzzaman, Sajibul Islam Nayan, Asir Uddin Mamun, Mamun Howlader, Dr Ahmed Monir, and other party leaders and activists were present as special guests.

Ten Indian soldiers were killed and several others injured on Thursday after an army vehicle skidded off a road and plunged into a deep gorge in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. The accident occurred around noon at Khanni Top, about 9,000 feet above sea level on the Bhaderwah–Chamba interstate road, when the driver of a bulletproof army vehicle heading to a high-altitude post reportedly lost control, causing it to fall into a nearly 200-foot-deep gorge. Indian Army and local administration teams rushed to the spot and launched rescue operations despite difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. Four soldiers were found dead at the scene, while 11 others were rescued with injuries and provided first aid before being airlifted to Udhampur for specialised treatment. Six more soldiers later succumbed to their injuries, officials said. The vehicle was severely damaged in the crash, Indian media reported. “We have lost 10 soldiers with 11 others injured in the unfortunate accident involving army vehicle,” Additional Deputy Commissioner, Bhaderwah, Sumit Kumar Bhutyal told PTI. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said he was “deeply saddened by the tragic road accident in Doda”. He wrote on X, “... My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The injured soldiers are receiving medical care and all necessary directions have been given to ensure the best possible treatment. The nation stands with our Armed Forces and their families in this difficult hour.” Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed grief over the accident. The Chief Minister conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the soldiers who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. He also lauded the swift rescue and evacuation efforts. Sinha, in a post on X, said he was “deeply saddened at the loss of lives of 10 of our brave Indian Army soldiers in an unfortunate road accident in Doda. We will always remember the outstanding service and supreme sacrifice of our brave soldiers.” He expressed his deepest condolences to the grieving families. “In this moment of profound sorrow, the entire nation stands united with the bereaved families in solidarity and support. 10 injured soldiers have been airlifted to the hospital,” he said, adding that he had directed senior officials to ensure best possible treatment to the injured. “Praying for their speedy recovery,” he said.  

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman addressed seven election rallies in just 16 hours on the first day of his campaign. He addressed the final rally of the day at Gausia in Narayanganj’s Rupganj around 4:30 am Friday, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. Reach polling centres before Fajr to safeguard votes: Tarique Later, he returned to his Gulshan residence, completing the first day of electioneering. Tarique began his day at 12:30 pm on Thursday with his first rally at Aliya Madrasa field in Sylhet. He then addressed rallies sequentially at Ainpur playground in Sherpur, Moulvibazar, Shayestaganj Upazila field in Habiganj, Kuttapara playground in Sarail Upazila, Brahmanbaria, Bhairab Stadium in Kishoreganj, and a municipal-adjacent area in Narsingdi No loan defaulter to be allowed to rule Bangladesh: Nahid  Traveling continuously for 16 hours, Tarique drew large crowds at rallies along the route late into the night. On the second day of campaigning, Tarique is scheduled to attend an election rally at BRB Ground, Bhashantek, in the Dhaka-17 constituency at 6pm Friday.

The U.S. warned the transitional council in charge of Haiti against making changes to the troubled country’s government late Wednesday, as pressure mounts for the unelected body to move toward elections for the first time in a decade. In a statement posted on X, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti wrote that “The United States would consider that any person who supports such a destabilizing initiative, which favors the gangs, would be acting against the interests of the United States, the region, and the Haitian people, and will take appropriate measures accordingly." The U.S. Embassy added that such a maneuver would undermine efforts to establish “a minimal level of security and stability” in Haiti, where gang violence is surging and poverty deepening. The statement came as some members of the council are at odds with Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, although it wasn’t immediately clear why. The council met behind closed doors earlier Wednesday and again on Thursday. The U.S. Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs wrote on X Thursday night that Haiti's chronic instability is a result of “corrupt Haitian politicians who use gangs and other armed groups to create chaos in the streets and then insist on a role in government to turn down the chaos they themselves have created.” “Real stability will come when political leaders get their power from the support of voters rather than their ability to sow chaos. The members of the (council) who have followed this path are not Haitian patriots. They are criminals like the gangs they conspire with,” the bureau wrote. A spokesman for the prime minister’s office said he could not comment on the situation. The council’s seven members with voting powers did not return messages asking for comment. Meanwhile, Laurent Saint-Cyr, the council's leader, said in a statement that he opposes any push to undermine government stability ahead of Feb. 7, when the council is provisionally scheduled to step down. “As major institutional deadlines for the Nation approach, any initiative likely to fuel instability, confusion or a breakdown of trust carries serious risks for the country," he wrote. “Haiti cannot afford to make unilateral decisions or engage in short-sighted political calculations that would compromise the stability and continuity of the State, as well as the well-being of the already sorely tested population.” Unelected council was put in charge to quell chaos It's the latest episode in years of political chaos that erupted after Haiti's last elected president, Jovenel Moïse, was slain at his home in July 2021. The council has been one of the country's top authorities since April 2024. It was created with the help of Caribbean leaders after powerful gangs forced the closure of Haiti’s main international airport and targeted key state infrastructure in a series of unprecedented attacks that eventually led former Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign. The council was charged with selecting Haiti’s prime minister in a bid to quickly bring some stability to the beleaguered country. Fils-Aimé is the third person chosen by the council. A businessman and former head of Haiti's Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he was appointed in November 2025 after the council fired previous leader Garry Conille. The council is supposed to step down by Feb. 7, but it’s unclear if that will happen. Critics say some council members are trying to stay in power longer, and many fear the move could unleash a fresh round of violent protests. The Feb. 7 deadline was approved in early 2024 on the assumption that Haiti would have held general elections to elect a new president. Gang violence has prevented officials from holding elections so far, although they are tentatively set for August, with a runoff to be held in December. UN Security Council meets to discuss Haiti A new U.N. report released Wednesday noted that “national stakeholders remain divided over the transitional governance architecture that is to lead the country to elections.” Earlier on Wednesday, the U.N. Security Council met to discuss the unraveling situation in Haiti. “Haiti has entered a critical phase in its process of restoring democratic institutions,” said Carlos Ruiz-Massieu, special representative of the U.N. Secretary General in Haiti. “The country no longer has time to waste in prolonged infighting.” Panamanian Ambassador Eloy Alfaro de Alba noted at the meeting that Haiti is at a “critical juncture,” with only 18 days left for the transitional presidential council’s mandate to end. “The persistent nature of violence … remains of utmost concern,” he said. Several U.N. Security Council members noted that Haiti needs to quickly move toward a democratic transition as gangs continue to seize control of more territory. “There’s a need to approach this deadline with a sense of responsibility … to sustain continuity of state and avoid any disruptions that may undermine the operation of national institutions,” said Ericq Pierre, permanent representative of Haiti to the United Nations. Gangs control an estimated 90% of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital, and they have seized swaths of land in the country’s central region. More than 8,100 killings were reported across Haiti from January to November last year, “with figures likely underreported owing to limited access to gang-controlled areas,” according to the U.N. report. Haiti’s National Police has been trying to quell gang violence with help from a U.N.-backed mission led by Kenyan police that remains understaffed and underfunded. The mission is transitioning into a so-called “gang suppression force” that would have the power to arrest suspected gang members. Haiti’s government also has been working with a private military contractor to launch drone strikes targeting suspected gang members, but which have also killed civilians. The strikes killed more than 970 people from March to December last year, including 39 civilians, 16 of them children, according to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

A farmer in Jaintapur, Sylhet, has suffered nearly Tk 10 lakh in losses after unidentified individuals allegedly vandalized his watermelon field over a past dispute. According to the complaint, Mohammad Ahmad Ali (53) of Daiya village in Darbast Union cultivated watermelons this season on five bighas of land in Bedu Haor, owned by the local mosque. Between around 9 pm on Jan 20 and 8 am on Jan 21, vandals reportedly entered the field and cut down 900 to 1,000 flowering and fruit-bearing watermelon plants. Ahmad Ali filed a written complaint at Jaintapur Model Police Station. Following the incident, the Upazila Department of Agricultural Extension sent a sub-assistant agriculture officer to inspect the site. “I am an ordinary farmer, and this is my first season cultivating watermelon on this land. Overnight, my entire field was destroyed. This is a huge loss for me. I want a proper investigation and exemplary punishment for the culprits,” Ahmad Ali said. Sub-Assistant Agriculture Officer Shoaeb Ahmed confirmed the inspection, noting the total loss of the crop and describing it as a major setback for the farmer. He said Ahmad Ali’s plants had begun flowering and fruiting, with market-ready melons expected by Ramadan, but the vandals destroyed all prospects. Jaintapur Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman Molla said the complaint has been recorded and the incident is being investigated. Efforts are underway to identify and take legal action against the perpetrators.

Two people, including a bus helper, were killed and at least 10 others injured when a mini-bus overturned on the Dhaka–Mymensingh highway in Bhaluka, Mymensingh, Thursday evening. The accident occurred around 7:30 pm near Sultana Garments in Mehrabari area of the upazila. The deceased were identified as bus helper Anik Mia (32), son of Altaf Hossain of Jagannathdia village in Ghior, Manikganj, and Shahjan Siraji (40), son of Nurul Islam of Birunia village in Bhaluka. Police and locals said the highway-bound mini-bus lost control near Sultana Garments and overturned on the road, killing Shahjan Siraji at the spot. The driver, helper, and at least 12 passengers were seriously injured. Bhaluka Fire Service and Veradoba Highway Police rushed the injured to Bhaluka Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared Anik Mia dead. The critically injured driver was referred to Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, while others are receiving treatment at the Upazila Health Complex. ABM Mehedi Masud, officer-in-charge of Veradoba Highway Police Station, said the bodies were recovered, the mini-bus seized, and legal action would follow before handing the bodies to the families.

A mobile court in Monirampur upazila of Jashore has fined two parliamentary candidates a total of Tk 2.3 lakh for causing traffic congestion and violating the election code of conduct on the first day of campaigning for the 13th national parliamentary election. The court, presided over by Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) Mahir Dayan Amin and Executive Magistrate Ashish Kumar Das on Thursday afternoon, imposed Tk 1.5 lakh on independent candidate Shahid Iqbal Hossain (symbol: Kalash) and Tk 80,000 on Gazi Enamul Haque, backed by Jamaat-e-Islami (symbol: Daripalla). Shahid Iqbal’s fine was paid by Monirampur Sadar Union Parishad Chairman Nistar Faruk, while Professor Ahsan Habib Liton paid on behalf of Gazi Enamul Haque. The mobile court said both candidates’ supporters gathered in large numbers in Monirampur Bazar for rallies, blocking the main road and disrupting traffic. At the same time, another campaign procession by Gazi Enamul Haque further worsened the situation. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Asheq Hasan, returning from a divisional meeting in Khulna on Thursday, witnessed the traffic congestion in Monirampur Bazar. Mahir Dayan Amin said the violations were registered under Section 27(k) of the 2025 election code of conduct, leading to the fines.

A one-year-old girl died after falling into a bucket of water at her home in Chan Mosque area of Kamrangirchar, Dhaka. The incident occurred on Thursday around 8:30 pm. The child, identified as Farzana, was found unconscious and rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where doctors declared her dead. Farzana’s father, Omar Faruq, a battery-operated auto-rickshaw driver, said the child was playing while he and his wife were talking. Suddenly, I noticed she was missing. After searching, we found her head submerged in a bucket of water in the bathroom. We rushed her to the hospital, but she was declared dead, he said. The family hails from Gendukuri village under Hathibandha police station in Lalmonirhat district and currently rents a home in Kamrangirchar. Farzana was their only daughter. Dhaka Medical College Hospital police camp in-charge, Inspector Md. Faruq said the body has been kept in the hospital morgue and the incident has been reported to the relevant police station.

An electrician died on Thursday after being electrocuted while working on the wiring at a house in the Kajla Naya Nagar area of Jatrabari in the capital. The deceased was identified as Md Khairul Islam Hawlader (50), son of Abdul Kader Hawlader of Bamna Thana in Barguna district. He had been living in a rented house in the Kajla area. The victim’s nephew, who gave just one name, Rubel, said his uncle Khairul was working on electrical wiring at a nearby house around 7:30pm when he suddenly came into contact with a live wire, lost consciousness and collapsed. He was later rescued and taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival, Rubel added. Inspector Md Faruk, in-charge of the police camp at Duber Hospital, said the body has been kept at the hospital’s emergency department morgue. “We have informed Jatrabari Police Station about the incident,” he said.

A CNG-run auto-rickshaw driver was beaten to death by assailants in Bayezid Bostami area of Chattogram city on Tuesday, police said. The incident took place around midnight near Amin Jute Mill Midya Para. The deceased was identified as Khorshed Alam, 40, a resident of Raufabad area under the same police station. One suspect, Shamsul Alam, 31, has been arrested in connection with the attack, while police are working to apprehend the other perpetrators. CCTV footage circulating on social media shows Khorshed arguing with three men on the street. The dispute escalated into a scuffle, and Khorshed was repeatedly struck with sticks, falling to the ground. The attackers continued the assault even after he collapsed before fleeing the scene. Bystanders were present but did not intervene. Jahidul Kabir, officer-in-charge of Bayezid Bostami police station, said Khorshed was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition, where doctors declared him dead. Authorities reviewed the CCTV footage to identify the suspect and are continuing the investigation. Preliminary reports suggest the attack stemmed from a dispute over the victim’s alleged bad breath. Khorshed’s family is preparing to file a formal case.

The strike by intern doctors at Rangpur Medical College (RMC) Hospital entered its second consecutive day on Thursday, leaving patients in serious distress. The doctors began the protest following an attack by patients’ relatives on medical staff earlier this week. Police have arrested a man identified as Hossain, 20, son of Hafez Ashraful Islam of Chaparhat area under Kaliganj police station in Lalmonirhat district, in connection with the incident. On Thursday afternoon, intern doctors were seen refraining from providing treatment, demanding better security for medical staff. The strike has disrupted normal hospital operations, putting ordinary patients, many of them critical, in extreme danger. Relatives of patients undergoing treatment at the hospital expressed frustration. “We are suddenly in trouble due to the doctors’ strike. Patients are not getting the necessary medical care. If the situation does not improve, we may have to take them elsewhere,” said one relative. Sadman Mir Miraj, President of the Intern Doctors Society of RMC Hospital, said the protest began after patient relatives attacked mid-level doctors, resident doctors and interns in the operation theatre on Tuesday night, injuring several and disrupting ongoing surgeries. “Doctors are now working under extreme insecurity,” he added. The strike will continue until proper security measures are ensured for intern doctors, he warned. Brigadier General Ashikur Rahman, Director of RMC Hospital, said discussions are underway with the authorities regarding hospital security, and he hoped the strike would end soon to ensure uninterrupted medical care.

A local BNP leader was injured in a gun attack by miscreants in Keraniganj on Thursday night. The victim was identified as Hasan Mollah, 45, son of Akar Mollah of Jagannathpur village under Keraniganj thana. He is the general secretary of Hazratpur Union BNP under the Dhaka-2 constituency. He was shot by unidentified assailants around 9:00pm, said M Saiful Alam, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Keraniganj Model Police Station. He was initially taken to Square Hospital in critical condition and later shifted to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) around 10:45 pm for further treatment. Rakib Hossain, younger brother of the injured BNP leader, said miscreants arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire in front of the house of the Hero Chairman of Ward No. 7 before fleeing. The bullets hit Hasan Mollah on the right side of his abdomen, he added. Inspector Md Faruk, in-charge of the police camp at DMCH, said a man from Keraniganj was brought to the hospital with gunshot wounds and is currently undergoing treatment in the emergency department.  

A Dhaka court on Wednesday placed Md Rubel Ahmed, an accused in the murder case of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman bin Hadi, on a six-day remand. Dhaka Additional Metropolitan Magistrate Jashita Islam passed the order after a hearing in the afternoon. Earlier, the investigation officer of the case, CID Assistant Superintendent of Police Abdul Qadir Bhuiyan, produced the accused before the court and sought a 10-day remand for interrogation. However, no lawyer representing the defence was present during the hearing. According to the case statement, Sharif Osman Bin Hadi had been serving as the spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho, a political and cultural platform formed in the aftermath of the uprising. On December 12, at around 2:20pm, assailants riding a motorcycle shot Hadi on Box Culvert Road under Paltan Model Police Station before fleeing the scene. He sustained critical gunshot wounds to his head and below his right ear. Hadi was first taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later shifted to Evercare Hospital. As his condition worsened, he was airlifted to Singapore for advanced treatment on December 15. He succumbed to his injuries on December 18 while undergoing treatment there. Following the incident, Inqilab Moncho Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber filed an attempted murder case with Paltan Police Station on December 14. The case was later converted into a murder case after Hadi’s death.

  Ryan Coogler’s blues-steeped vampire epic “Sinners” led all films with 16 nominations to the 98th Academy Awards on Thursday, setting a record for the most in Oscar history. Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences voters showered “Sinners” with more nominations than they had ever bestowed before, breaking the 14-nomination mark set by “All About Eve,” “Titanic” and “La La Land.” Along with best picture, Coogler was nominated for best director and best screenplay, and double-duty star Michael B. Jordan was rewarded with his first Oscar nomination, for best actor. Paul Thomas Anderson’s father-daughter revolutionary saga “One Battle After Another,” the favorite coming into nominations, trailed in second with 13 of its own. Four of its actors — Leonardo DiCaprio, Teyana Taylor, Benicio del Toro and Sean Penn — were nominated, though newcomer Chase Infiniti was left out in best actress. In those two top nominees, the film academy put its full force behind a pair of visceral and bracingly original American epics that each connected with a fraught national moment. Coogler’s Jim Crow-era film — the rare horror movie to win the academy’s favor — conjures a mythical allegory of Black life. In “One Battle After Another,” a dormant spirit of rebellion is revived in an out-of-control police state. Both are also Warner Bros. titles. In the midst of a contentious sale to Netflix, the 102-year-old studio had one of its best Oscar nominations mornings ever. As the fate of Warner Bros., which Netflix is buying for $72 billion, hangs in the balance amid a challenge from Paramount Skydance, Hollywood is bracing for potentially the largest realignment in the film industry’s history. The 10 films nominated for best picture are “Bugonia,” “F1,” “Frankenstein,” “Hamnet,” “Marty Supreme,” “One Battle After Another,” “The Secret Agent,” “Sentimental Value,” “Sinners” and “Train Dreams.” Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein,” Josh Safdie’s “Marty Supreme” and Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” all scored nine nominations. The nine for “Marty Supreme” included a third best actor nod for 30-year-old Timothée Chalamet, the favorite in the category he narrowly missed winning last year for “A Complete Unknown.” With Jordan and Chalamet, the nominees are Leonardo DiCaprio for “One Battle After Another,” Ethan Hawke for “Blue Moon” and Wagner Moura for “The Secret Agent.” Nominated for best actress was the category favorite, Jessie Buckley (“Hamnet”), along with Rose Byrne (“If I Had Legs I’d Kick You”), Kate Hudson (“Song Sung Blue”), Renate Reinsve (“Sentimental Value”) and two-time winner Emma Stone, who landed her sixth nomination, for “Bugonia.” ‘KPop’ leads a field light on big hits The year’s most-watched movie, with more than half a billion views on Netflix, “KPop Demon Hunters,” scored nominations for both best song (“Golden”) and best animated feature. Sony Pictures developed and produced the film, but, after selling it to Netflix, watched it become a worldwide sensation. Blockbusters otherwise had a difficult morning. Universal Pictures’ “Wicked: For Good” was shut out entirely. While “Avatar: Fire and Ash” notched nominations for costume design and visual effects, it became the first “Avatar” film not nominated for best picture. The biggest box-office hit nominated for Hollywood's top award instead was “F1,” an Apple production that landed four nominations. The streamer partnered with Warner Bros. to distribute the racing drama. This year, the Oscars are introducing a new category for casting. That new honor helped “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another” pad their already impressive stats. Along with those two films, the nominees are “Hamnet,” “Marty Supreme” and “The Secret Agent.” An international shift continues The academy, which has expanded its overseas membership in recent years, also continued its tilt toward international films. Every category included one international nominee. For the eighth year in the row, a non-English-language film was nominated for best picture. More non-English performances were nominated than ever before. The top nominee of them all was Joachim Trier's Norwegian family drama “Sentimental Value.” It cleaned up in the supporting actor categories, with nods for Stellan Skarsgård, Inga Ibsdotter LilIeaas and Elle Fanning. Also nominated for best supporting actress, in addition to Taylor: Amy Madigan for “Weapons” and Wunmi Mosaku for “Sinners.” In supporting actor, the nominees included Jacob Elordi for “Frankenstein” and, in a surprise that likely dislodged Paul Mescal of “Hamnet,” Delroy Lindo for “Sinners.” A competitive best international feature category mirrored the turbulent state of the world. That included the Iranian revenge drama and Palme d'Or winner “It Was Just an Accident,” by the often-imprisoned filmmaker Jafar Panahi. He's spoken passionately against the ongoing crackdown of demonstrators in his home country. France nominated the film. Also nominated: the Tunisian entry “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” about volunteers at the Palestine Red Crescent Society; the Brazilian political thriller “The Secret Agent”; the apocalyptic Spanish road movie “Sirât” and “Sentimental Value.” The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles and will be televised live on ABC and Hulu. YouTube's new deal to exclusively air won't take effect until 2029. This year, Conan O’Brien will return as host.

NCP convener Nahid Islam warned that loan defaulters should not be allowed into power, saying they would plunder the country rather than repay debts if elected to parliament. Speaking at a public gathering organized by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami for Dhaka-15 constituency, Nahid said, “The people of Bangladesh do not want to witness looting. We will not let looters come to power, and the people will not either.” Addressing the city’s low-income and underprivileged residents, he said a political party promised flats to slum dwellers, but they actually seek a safe life, which is possible even in slum areas. He alleged that past attempts to provide flats ended in eviction after elections, and now the slum dwellers recognize these as empty promises. “They will vote not for flats but for justice and the nation’s interest.” Read more: NCP officially launches election campaign from Dhaka University Criticizing BNP’s promised family card scheme, Nahid questioned its feasibility, asking, “Who will actually receive the 2,000-3,000 Taka cards? Will the genuinely needy get them, or will they have to pay a bribe of 1,000 Taka?” He accused a major political party of nominating loan defaulters, saying the party is simultaneously offering family cards while trying to bring debtors to parliament to carry out looting. Nahid also urged the Election Commission to ensure a fair and transparent election, warning against giving undue advantage to any party. “The commission must act impartially. We are still active on the ground and will not tolerate injustice.” Read more: Feb-12 polls must be fair, with no room for bias: Prof Yunus Calling the upcoming election more than just a contest between rivals, he appealed for a ‘Yes’ vote in the national referendum. “We must vote yes to reject discrimination, extortion, injustice, oppression, and authoritarianism. The fight against fascism and exploitation must continue.” Speaking on behalf of the 10-party alliance led by Jamaat, Nahid urged city residents to vote for the coalition’s candidates, adding, “Cast your vote at Dariapalla and Shapla Kali; ensure the victory of our 10-party alliance candidates.”

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday urged his party leaders, activists and voters to go to polling centres before Fajr prayers on the election-day to prevent any vote rigging. “Many people say voters should stand in line after Fajr prayers on the election-day. I say this time you should wake up earlier, offer Tahajjud prayers and then prepare to go to the polling centre,” he said. Addressing his party’s third election rally at Shayestaganj Upazila Parishad ground in Habiganj, the BNP chairman also said, “If needed, go to the polling centre early and offer Fajr prayers there in congregation before casting your votes.” Calling the upcoming election very important, he said only BNP can change the fate of the people, and for that, voters must cast their votes for the party. In an indirect reference to Jamaat-e-Islam, Tarique alleged that a political party is trying to steal the votes of expatriates. “They worked against the Liberation War. Everyone must remain alert and cautious about them.” Tarique said those who claim to establish honest rule do not need to be newly identified, as the people of the country recognised them during the Liberation War. The BNP Chairman also said Bangladesh belongs to its people, not to any individual or group. “This country is owned by the people. It is not anyone’s personal property. The thousands of people sitting in front of me are the real owners of this country. You have to decide how you want the country to be run, and you must give that decision through your vote,” he said. Earlier, the BNP chairman’s motorcade reached Shayestaganj shortly before Maghrib prayers. After arriving at the venue, Tarique Rahman went on stage and offered Maghrib prayers in congregation. Addressing the rally, Tarique alleged that even before the election, a political party has been collecting bKash account numbers and National Identity (NID) card details from men and women in rural areas. “But they claim they want to establish governance by honest people.” Tarique also said there has been no real voting or elections in the country over the last 15 years. “For the past 15 years, elections have been a mockery. People were not able to vote in so-called elections.” The BNP leader said many young people in the country have never been able to vote since reaching voting age. “We want people to be able to vote freely on February 12.” Tarique urged voters to elect candidates whom they can approach and speak to about local problems. Referring to development, the BNP chairman said no real progress was made in the region during the previous government’s tenure. “Just look at the condition of the highway to understand the situation. The condition of village roads must be even worse.” Tarique alleged that the country has been ruined over the last 15 years and that public money has been siphoned off abroad. “To save the country from widespread corruption, people must come forward. The people themselves must decide who will run the country in the coming days.” Outlining BNP’s plans, Tarique said if BNP comes to power, family cards would be introduced for poor rural households. He said BNP will provide technical training and send skilled workers abroad, introduce agriculture cards to help farmers get fertiliser and seeds, and launch crop insurance. The BNP chairman also said government honorariums will be introduced for imams, khatibs and muezzins. Earlier in the day, at around 1:00 pm, he formally began his election campaign at the Sylhet Alia Madrasa ground. After addressing a rally there, he travelled by road to Sherpur in Moulvibazar to speak at another gathering.  

The Council of Advisers on Thursday approved a proposal to sign the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with Japan which will help Bangladesh enjoy immediate duty-free access to the Japanese market for 7,379 products. In return, Japan will receive immediate duty-free access to 1,039 products from Bangladesh through the signing of the EPA between Bangladesh and Japan. It will be a milestone and historic agreement, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told the reporters at the Foreign Service Academy. While briefing the journalists, Alam said this will eventually help Bangladesh negotiate better with other countries on the trade front. "We are trying to diversify exports and markets," said the Press Secretary, noting Bangladesh's RMG products will enjoy duty-free market access to Japan’s market. As a Least Developed Country (LDC), the Press Secretary said, Bangladesh will, for the first time, sign an EPA with Japan, the world’s fourth-largest economy. The signing of this agreement is expected to bring far-reaching trade and economic benefits for Bangladesh, including enhanced trade, investment, and employment opportunities, marking a new chapter in the nation’s economic relations with Japan. As an early step in the negotiations, a Joint Study Group was established, which published its report on 27 December 2023. The report recommended a comprehensive approach covering 17 sectors for negotiation. The official negotiations for the EPA commenced on 12 March 2024, as per the Agreed Work Plan. The first round was held in Dhaka from 19–23 May 2024, but due to unforeseen challenges, the talks were temporarily paused. Bangladesh and Japan finalised the draft of an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) last month. The Council of Advisers also approved several key ordinances, proposals and policies at its weekly meeting at the Chief Adviser's Office (CAO). Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus chaired the meeting. The Council discussed 13 major agendas, including multiple ordinances and proposals. Of them, the Council of Advisers approved 11 items while two drafts of two ordinances were sent back for further review, said the Press Secretary. The Council gave final approval to drafts of the Bangladesh Private Export Processing Zones Act (Repeal) Ordinance, 2026, the Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, the Bangladesh House Building Finance Corporation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, the Gambling Prevention Ordinance, 2026, the Dhaka Central University Ordinance, 2026, the Private Educational Institutions Teachers and Employees Retirement Benefits Board Ordinance, 2026 and the Private Educational Institutions Teachers and Employees Welfare Trust Ordinance, 2026. The draft of the Right to Information Ordinance, 2026 also got approval of the Council of Advisers. The meeting also approved the draft of the Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) Treaty between Bangladesh and Malaysia and the National Poultry Development Policy, 2026. The Press Secretary said the Council sent back the drafts of the Money Laundering Prevention (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, and the Bangladesh National Qualifications Framework (BNQF) Policy, 2026, for further review. Chief Adviser's Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad was present at the briefing.

Saraswati Puja, one of the main religious festivals of the Hindu community, will be celebrated in the country on Friday. As Saraswati is considered as the Goddess of wisdom and knowledge, Hindu devotees, especially students, celebrate the Puja in different educational institutions and temples.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) officially kicked off its election campaign on Thursday afternoon by paying respect at the graves of the Three National Leaders, Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy, Khawaja Nazimuddin, and Sher-e-Bangla A.K. Fazlul Huq, located near Doel Chattar of Dhaka University. Following this, party leaders visited the graves of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and Osman Hadi, situated adjacent to the Dhaka University Central Mosque. The event was attended by the NCP Convener Nahid Islam, as well as Nasir Uddin Patwari, a candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency. Speaking at the venue, Nahid Islam noted that Dhaka University was the starting point for the Language Movement, the Liberation War, and the mass uprising of 2024. Consequently, the NCP chose this historic site to begin its electoral journey. Ameer-e-Jamaat launches campaign for Dhaka-15 in Mirpur "We want the election to be held on February 12 at any cost," Nahid Islam stated. "Our sole agenda now is to win that election and represent the people in Parliament." He further alleged that the Election Commission (EC) is failing to maintain neutrality under the current government’s influence. "We have repeatedly pointed out that the Commission is not acting impartially. They are granting special privileges to a particular party. While that party has been campaigning for several days despite it being against the rules, the EC served us a show-cause notice for campaigning in favor of a referendum. We demand true neutrality, yet we are determined to move forward regardless of these obstacles." Nahid Islam emphasized that the NCP remains as steadfast regarding elections and referendums as it has been regarding reforms and justice. "We will do whatever is necessary to ensure a fair election on February 12. We expect the 10-party electoral alliance to win by a landslide and form the government," he added. He asserted that the general public is with them and that there is no alternative to a victory for the 10-party alliance to carry forward the spirit of the July uprising and the momentum of national reform. Urging the nation to support the alliance, he said, "We have 30 candidates across the country. I call upon the people to elect them under the 'Shaplakoli' symbol. In Parliament, the NCP and the 10-party alliance will be the voice of the common people, the mass uprising, national reform, and our country's sovereignty."

The country’s banking sector remains under severe structural stress and meaningful reform cannot be achieved within a short time frame, said Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said on Thursday. “The banking sector is definitely challenging. Institutions have been weakened, laws are often ignored and in many cases owners themselves control management, bypassing prudential norms,” he said while speaking at MTB-FE Roundtable on ‘Banking sector reforms’ at a city hotel. The adviser said the challenges facing the sector are deep, complex and institutionalized and the problems accumulated over the past 15 years cannot be fixed in 14 to 16 months. He said Bangladesh Bank has operational autonomy but full independence is neither realistic nor desirable without accountability. “No central bank can operate beyond the sovereignty of the state. Autonomy must go hand in hand with accountability,” he added. Referring to international assessments, the adviser cited recent global reports highlighting illicit financial flows, crime-related trade and inflation as key vulnerabilities for countries like Bangladesh. He said these issues directly affect the stability of the banking system and must be addressed primarily by the central bank with support from the finance ministry. The adviser also criticised the role of auditors, alleging that some chartered accounting firms had signed audit reports without proper verification. “This is an absurd reality. Auditors signing backdated or questionable reports severely undermine financial discipline,” he said adding that some firms have already been blacklisted. Irregularities are not limited to banks alone, mentioning that large financial activities in some sectors, including higher education often escape proper auditing, he added. The adviser said the government has recently passed amendments to the Negotiable Instruments Act and the House Building Finance Corporation Act, while work on amendments to money laundering laws and economic courts is ongoing. However, time constraints remain a major challenge, he said. “We have very limited time left but we are trying to complete as much as possible,” he said. The adviser acknowledged concerns over excessive numbers of senior officials at Bangladesh Bank and said steps have  already been taken to rationalise the structure. Despite the challenges, he said Bangladesh’s international image remains relatively positive. “Externally, the perception is not that Bangladesh is collapsing. But partners do say the situation is difficult,” he noted. The adviser said banking sector reform is unavoidable and critical for the economy. “This opportunity should not be wasted. If we cannot complete all reforms now, the next government must carry them forward. The banking sector is too important to delay,” he said. Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H Mansur was present as the special guest while Professor of the Bangladesh Institute of Bank Management Dr. Shah Md. Ahsan Habib delivered the keynote speech.

Bangladesh Bank (BB) Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur on Thursday said the central bank is working to reduce ‘regulatory overreach’ by allowing banks greater operational freedom, provided they strictly comply with existing rules and guidelines. “We do not want to interfere in your work, but our guidelines and regulations must be followed by everyone,” he said while speaking at a roundtable titled ‘Banking Sector Reforms’, jointly organised by Mutual Trust Bank PLC and The Financial Express at a city hotel. The Governor said Bangladesh Bank has opted for a direct action approach by forming three dedicated task forces instead of setting up a banking commission to expedite reforms and asset recovery. Dr Mansur explained that forming a commission would be time-consuming, requiring at least six months to prepare a report and another three months for review, leaving the current interim government with little time for implementation. BTMA threatens shutdown of all spinning mills over duty-free yarn imports “We have taken the approach that we will not form any commission. We will move directly to implementation through task forces,” he said. Dr Mansur said the three task forces are focusing on banking sector reform, Bangladesh Bank reform, and asset recovery. Referring to the challenges of recovering laundered money, the Governor said a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) has been formed comprising the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). He acknowledged that capacity building remains a major challenge, noting that Bangladesh is receiving technical assistance from international partners. “The World Bank, British government, FBI and the European Union are providing technical support,” Dr Mansur said. The Governor said the long-term goal is to establish a permanent mechanism similar to the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) to combat financial crimes on a continuous basis. He revealed that authorities have identified 12 to 13 major individuals and around 200 others who allegedly laundered more than Tk 200 crore each. Experts, farmers warn of food security crisis over poultry import ban Expressing optimism over ongoing legal proceedings, Dr Mansur specifically mentioned the asset recovery case involving Saifuzzaman in London, adding that Islami Bank has also filed a claim in the matter. The BB Governor said the central bank is maintaining strict political neutrality to keep the economy functional, distinguishing the current approach from that of the ‘1/11’ caretaker government period. “We do not want any factories to close. No colour, no party—if a factory exists, the objective is how to keep it running,” Dr Mansur said. He cited examples, noting that letters of credit (LCs) were allowed for S Alam Group’s SS Power plant due to its $2.5 billion investment, which is critical for the country’s power supply. Similarly, facilities have been extended to the Gazi Group and Beximco, he said. Regarding Beximco, the Governor said that out of its 18 or 19 entities, only the textile division is currently facing difficulties, while other units such as pharmaceuticals and Shinepukur Ceramics remain operational. Dr Mansur said an exit roadmap has been developed in consultation with business representatives, allowing affected industries timeframes ranging from five to 12 years to regularise their liabilities. 11 more institutions inc. banks, municipal bodies join BIDA’s One-Stop Service portal The Governor stressed the urgency of passing key financial laws during the tenure of the current administration, warning that future governments may find it ‘extremely difficult’ to enact them. He expressed concern that the amendment to the Money Loan Court Act was returned by a committee on the grounds of being anti-business, arguing that without the amendment, asset recovery would be impossible. Dr Mansur also underscored the importance of passing amendments to the Bank Company Act to strengthen governance in the banking sector.  

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Thursday said that there would be no possibility of ballot snatching at polling centres in the upcoming national election. “The upcoming national election will be free, fair, impartial, peaceful and festive in Bangladesh’s history which will serve as a role model,” he said while speaking at a views-exchange meeting at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters in Malibagh area of the capital. In previous national elections, only one armed police member was deployed at each polling centre and for the first time, at least five armed members of law-enforcement agencies will be deployed at every polling centre in the upcoming election, he said. Of them, at least two will be armed police members and three armed Ansar members, he added. Besides, six armed law-enforcement personnel will be deployed in important polling centres, including three armed police members while10 unarmed Ansar members-- six male and four female Ansar members--equipped with batons will be posted at each polling centre, he said. The election officials and law-enforcement personnel must perform their duties with 100 percent honesty, neutrality and professionalism, he added. This time, there are several important aspects , including training of law-enforcement personnel, the use of body-worn cameras, installation of CCTV cameras and the deployment of drones and dog squads, said the adviser. The expatriate voters, government officials and employees, election-duty officials and members of law-enforcement agencies will be able to exercise their voting rights by registering through the ‘Postal Vote BD’ app, he said. Nearly 9 lakh law enforcers to be deployed during polls: Home Adviser Besides, a record number of around 9 lakh law-enforcement personnel will be engaged in election duties. The law-enforcement agencies, BNCC, Girls Guide and Scout members will also assist in maintaining order, he added. He said the forces would be deployed in two phases to maintain law and order during the election. The first phase, with currently deployed personnel, will continue, while the second phase will see polling-centre-based deployment from February 8–14, with officers on duty for seven days. Later, the adviser presented awards to CID officers for their outstanding performance.  

At least nine supporters of BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami candidates were injured following a clash between the groups in Ullapara on the first day of campaigning on Thursday (January 22, 2026). The identities of the injured could not be immediately confirmed, said Rupkar, Officer-in-Charge (Investigation) of Ullapara Model Police Station. Read more: BNP leader shot and injured in Keraniganj OC Rupkar said both sides were campaigning in Tetulia village under the Sirajganj-4 (Ullapara) constituency when a verbal argument escalated into a physical clash. Supporters from both sides reportedly chased each other, and private cars and motorcycles belonging to Jamaat supporters were vandalised. Police rushed to the scene and brought the situation under control. Patrolling has been strengthened in the area to prevent further clashes. Legal action will be taken if any formal complaints are filed regarding the incident, added the OC. Read more: No loan defaulter to be allowed to rule Bangladesh: Nahid 

The Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, officially inaugurated his campaign for the 13th National Parliamentary Election on Thursday afternoon. The campaign kicked off with a massive public rally held at Adarsha High School in Mirpur-10, part of the Dhaka-15 (Mirpur-Kafrul) constituency. Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, the Jamaat chief signaled the start of a nationwide movement for the party. The atmosphere in Mirpur was electric from the morning, as thousands of supporters arrived in processions, carrying the party’s election symbol, the "Scale" (Daripalla). By midday, the venue and surrounding areas were packed to capacity, decorated extensively with banners and festoons, which are now legal for a limited period. The rally was attended by several prominent leaders of Jamaat and of parties in its alliance, including Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), Engineer Rashed Pradhan, Vice President and Spokesperson of JAGPA, Advocate Ehsanul Mahboob Zubair, Assistant Secretary General of Jamaat-e-Islami, and Saiful Alam Khan Milon, Central Executive Council member and candidate for Dhaka-12. Also seen were some of the high profile Jamaat candidates from Dhaka, Barrister Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem (Dhaka-14), Colonel (Retd.) Abdul Baten (Dhaka-16), and Dr. SM Khaliduzzaman (Dhaka-17). The event was presided over by Abdur Rahman Musa, the seat coordinator and Nayeb-e-Ameer of Jamaat's Dhaka North City unit, while former Chhatrashibir President Zahidul Islam moderated the session. Dr. Saif Khan, son of the late Abdul Hannan Khan, delivered the opening speech. Local leaders, including Abdul Matin Khan and Anwarul Karim, also addressed the crowd, emphasizing a festive yet determined start to their electoral journey.  

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has said at least two candidates contesting the 13th parliamentary election concealed their dual citizenship in their submitted affidavits. Both the candidates are British citizens but their affidavits made no mention of this, said Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, executive director of TIB, at a press conference held at the organisation’s office in the capital on Thursday. He said the irregularities were identified after analysing the affidavits they submitted, he said. Iftekharuzzaman said 21 candidates declared in their affidavits that they held foreign citizenship but later renounced it to become eligible to contest the election. Nat’l Human Rights Commission Ordinance hostage to bureaucratic capture: TIB “However, based on the information we have, at least two candidates did not disclose their dual citizenship in their affidavits. The data indicate that they are British citizens,” he said. As per law, candidates with dual citizenship must declare it in their affidavits and provide proof of renunciation of foreign nationality, he said. For policy reasons, they have not revealed the names of the two candidates, he said. “We have the relevant documents and the matter will be reported to the authorities concerned,” Dr. Iftekharuzzaman added. At the press conference, TIB also highlighted multiple discrepancies related to undeclared overseas assets. One candidate reportedly purchased a property worth nearly £1.4 million (about Tk 2.10 billion) in the UK in 2013 under the name of a declared dependent, which was not mentioned in the affidavit. Credible information suggests the property was bought through a shell company registered in Dubai, UAE. Dr. Iftekharuzzaman said another candidate did not disclose any personal foreign assets but a flat in Dubai is registered under his spouse’s name. Another candidate declared ownership of three overseas flats in the affidavit but in reality, the number is at least three times higher with an estimated investment of Tk 350 million. TIB’s analysis further revealed that one candidate failed to declare ownership of any foreign business though he is associated with at least 11 foreign companies, eight of which are currently operational. Besides, one candidate’s company registration in a tax haven has long been publicly available, yet there was no mention of it in the affidavit, he said. The organisation has called on the Election Commission and relevant authorities to take swift and effective action.

Detectives of Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s (DMP) Lalbagh Division arrested an alleged arms trader along with two foreign pistols and 21 rounds of ammunition on the Dhaka–Mawa highway in the capital’s Shyampur area. The arrestee was identified as Azgar Ali alias Bhola (55). Deputy Commissioner (DB-Lalbagh Division) Branch Md Mostak Sarkar disclosed all this while briefing reporters at the DMP Media Centre on Thursday afternoon. During the briefing he said a team of DB Lalbagh division was deployed in the Chankharpul area on Thursday morning as part of a special operation. Based on intelligence, the team came to know that an arms dealer was entering Dhaka by a Sohag Paribahan bus. Following the tip-off, the DB team took position in front of Bonoful Sweets shop on the Dhaka–Mawa highway in West Dholairpar of Shyampur around 1:30pm. At one stage about 1:40pm, they signalled a Sohag Paribahan bus coming from Benapole to stop and conducted a search in the presence of the bus supervisor and helper. During the search, detectives identified the suspect following the intelligence information and conducted a body search. A silver-coloured foreign pistol and two silver-coloured magazines wrapped with black tape were recovered from one side of his waist. Another black-coloured pistol and two black magazines wrapped with plastic tape were recovered from the other side. Mostak Sarkar said no incriminating items were found in the bag the suspect was carrying. However, 21 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from his trouser pocket. During preliminary interrogation, Azgar said he hails from the Benapole area of Jashore district. Police said he has a previous arms case filed with Khilgaon Police Station in 2021 and was arrested in 2024 by Savar Police Station with a large quantity of phensedyl. Police suspect he is an arms trader, though details about the source of the weapons and the intended buyers in Dhaka are yet to be known. Responding to a question on whether the arms were brought to Dhaka centring the upcoming election, the DB official said it was not possible to say specifically if they were linked to the election. He also said that the primary objective of such illegal arms is to deteriorate law and order, and further interrogation would reveal the source and intended recipients of the weapons.

Students of Narail Nursing College on Thursday confined the principal and an instructor to the principal’s office alleging corruption and indecent behaviour. The students formed a human chain and staged a protest on the college premises around 10am bringing a series of allegations against Principal Afroza Khatun. The allegations include embezzlement of mess funds, use of rude language against students, misappropriation of funds allocated by the Directorate General of Nursing and Midwifery (DGNM), manipulation of formative marks and issuing threats to students. Later, the protesting students confined Principal Afroza Khatun and instructor Reksona Parveen to the principal’s room. During the protest, the students demanded the resignation of the two officials, proper accountability for the alleged corrupt practices and the return of all embezzled money. At one stage, the students produced resignation letters, which were later signed by the two officials. However, the students refused to allow them to leave, insisting that they would remain confined until fair accountability is ensured and the alleged misappropriated money is returned. Principal Afroza Khatun, however, denied all the allegations brought against her. On information, police rushed to the spot to bring the situation under control. Necessary legal action will be taken, said Md Oli Mia, Officer-in-Charge of Narail Sadar Police Station.  

Bangladesh’s capital market ended the last trading session of the week on a mixed note, with the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) closing lower while the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) posted gains. Both bourses witnessed upward momentum in the first half of the session but selling pressure toward the close dragged the DSE into the red. The benchmark DSEX shed 6 points by the end of trading. Among the other indices, the Shariah-based DSES fell by 2 points, while the blue-chip DS30 edged down by 1 point. Most listed companies on the DSE saw price declines, as shares of 189 companies lost value against gains by 145, while prices of 56 issues remained unchanged. The market turnover also dropped, with shares and units worth Tk 536 crore traded during the session, down from Tk 605 crore in the previous trading day. In the block market, shares of 27 companies worth Tk 13 crore changed hands, with Dominage Steel Building Systems Limited accounting for the highest turnover of Tk 2 crore. Asia Insurance PLC topped the DSE gainers’ list after its share price surged by nearly 10 percent, while MIDAS Financing PLC ended as the worst performer, losing more than 5 percent. In contrast, the CSE closed higher, with its broad-based index CASPI advancing by 25 points. Most companies on the port city bourse ended in positive territory, as share prices of 87 companies rose against declines by 57, while 20 issues remained unchanged. The turnover on the CSE also increased marginally, with shares and units worth Tk 14 crore traded during the session, compared to Tk 13 crore a day earlier. Asia Pacific General Insurance Company Limited emerged as the top gainer on the CSE with a 10 percent rise, while Deshbandhu Polymer Limited sank to the bottom of the chart after losing over 9 percent.  

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday accused a political party of trying to mislead people, especially women, by selling ‘tickets-to-heaven’ in exchange for votes. “There is a political party whose role we saw 50 years ago. They are now going to the homes of innocent mothers and sisters and selling ‘tickets to Jannah’. This is not hypocrisy alone as it is outright shirk,” he said in an oblique reference to Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. He made the remarks while addressing his party’s second election rally at Ainpur playground in Sherpur area of Moulvibazar district on Thursday afternoon. The BNP chairman recalled that the Jamaat leaders killed many people in 1971 during the country’s Liberation War. “Now they are misleading many people again and dragging them towards shirk (in the name of a ticket to Jannah).” “Those who are deceiving people by hurting religious sentiments before the election—just think how they will deceive the people if they come to power,” he warned the voters. Stating that people are the main strength of his party, Tarique called upon the voters to vote for the party’s electoral symbol Sheaf of Paddy to restore democracy and bring change to people’s lives. “If we want to save the country, restore democracy and change people’s destiny through the election scheduled for the 12th of next month, then where should we cast our vote? We must vote for the Sheaf of Paddy,” he said. Referring to past sacrifices, the BNP leader said many people shed their blood and many others became victims of enforced disappearances for the right to vote and democracy. Tarique urges voters to back BNP, warns against vote fraud Calling on all citizens to work together for rebuilding the country, Tarique said BNP is committed to protecting the country’s independence and sovereignty. “We must reintroduce a democratic process and ensure people’s right to speak freely. Which party can guarantee this? Only the Sheaf of Paddy can,” he said. The BNP leader claimed that elections at different levels were held in a largely fair manner when BNP was in power. “People could speak freely, criticise the government and no one was subjected to enforced disappearance or killing,” he added. Tarique alleged that one political party handed over the country’s sovereignty in 1971, while another did the same over the last 16 years. “That is why voting for the Sheaf of Paddy is essential to save the country and change people’s fate.” He also briefly outlined his plans for the country’s future development during the speech. The rally was presided over by Moulvibazar district BNP President Naser Rahman. BNP candidates from different constituencies in the district also spoke at the programme. Earlier in the day, Tarique formally began his election campaign by addressing a rally at Sylhet Alia Madrasa ground. After Moulvibazar, he is scheduled to address rallies in Habiganj’s Shayestaganj, Brahmanbaria’s Sarail, Kishoreganj’s Bhairab, Narsingdi and Narayanganj’s Araihazar and Rupganj areas.

The High Court on Thursday rejected a writ petition filed by BNP-nominated candidate Md. Abdul Gafur Bhuiyan challenging the Election Commission’s decision to cancel his candidacy for the Cumilla-10 constituency (Lalmai-Nangalkot) over dual citizenship issues. A High Court bench comprising Justice Razik-Al-Jalil and Justice Md Anowarul Islam passed the order, barring him from participating in the national election. Barrister Fida M Kamal and Barrister Ruhul Quddus stood for the BNP candidate while Advocate Yusuf Ali represented the EC. Earlier, on Jan 18, following an appeal hearing at the EC office, the EC annulled Bhuiyan’s candidacy. The appeal was filed by Kazi Nure Alam Siddiqui, a candidate of Bangladesh Cultural Muktijot (Muktijot). After hearing both parties, the EC formally cancelled Bhuiyan’s nomination. On Jan 20, Bhuiyan challenged the EC’s decision at the High Court which was rejected on Thursday.  

Greenland’s location in the Arctic places it at the heart of global nuclear defense planning, a reality highlighted anew by U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed push for his proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system. In any hypothetical nuclear conflict involving the United States, Russia and China, intercontinental ballistic missiles would likely travel along the shortest routes, over the Arctic. That trajectory makes Greenland a critical point for early detection and potential interception. Trump has argued that U.S. ownership of Greenland is essential for the success of the multibillion-dollar “Golden Dome,” a layered missile defense system he claims will be operational before 2029. He has said modern offensive and defensive weapons systems make control of the territory especially important, sparking alarm in Denmark and among Greenlanders. A key element of Greenland’s importance is the Pituffik Space Base, formerly known as Thule Air Base. Located above the Arctic Circle, the base hosts a powerful early-warning radar capable of detecting and tracking ballistic missile launches from thousands of kilometers away, including missiles fired from Russia or China toward the United States. Defense analysts note that the base gives Washington valuable extra minutes to assess and respond to potential attacks. The radar can monitor large swaths of the Arctic and detect objects as small as a car, according to the U.S. Air Force. However, experts question Trump’s claim that U.S. ownership of Greenland is necessary. The United States has operated at Pituffik for decades under a 1951 defense agreement with Denmark, without sovereignty over the island. Analysts also point out that other allied locations, such as early-warning radar sites in the United Kingdom, play similar roles without any U.S. ownership claims. Some experts argue that emerging space-based sensors planned under the “Golden Dome” could eventually reduce Greenland’s strategic importance. They also note that Denmark has historically been a highly cooperative U.S. ally, making expanded military access possible without drastic political steps. As debates continue, Greenland remains a pivotal, and sensitive, crossroads in global nuclear defense calculations.

A total of 3,263 candidates have been appointed to various cadres through the 48th Bangladesh Civil Service (Special) examination. The Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification in this regard on Thursday. According to the notification, the appointments were made following the recommendation of the Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC). The appointees will have to undergo basic training at the Bangladesh Public Administration Training Centre (BPATC) or at any other training institution designated by the government. After completing the basic training, they will receive such professional and special training as determined by the government at the institution concerned with their respective employment. The notification further said that the appointees will serve an apprenticeship period of two years. If necessary, the government may extend the apprenticeship period by a maximum of two more years. During the apprenticeship period, if any appointee is found unfit to continue in service, he or she may be removed from service without assigning any reason and without consulting the PSC, the notification added.  

Prof Ali Riaz, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, on Thursday said the key to the nation’s success rests with the country’s people. Speaking at a consultation meeting organised by the Khulna Divisional Administration at the Divisional Commissioner’s Office auditorium, Prof Riaz emphasised the importance of public participation in the referendum and voter mobilisation. Ali Riaz, also the chief coordinator of the public awareness campaign team on the upcoming referendum, urged people to vote ‘Yes’ in the referendum to reform the country and establish equality and dignity, marking their ballots with a tick. BNP in favour of ‘Yes’ in referendum: Mahdi Amin Ali Riaz highlighted that the July National Charter 2025 reflects the aspirations of people.  “Although this charter is printed in black ink, its true meaning has been written in blood. While we may not have contributed with our blood, it is our responsibility to recognise the July National Charter 2025.” He said the referendum is the best mechanism to determine the future system of government, and even though the interim government remains neutral in national elections, it supports the ‘Yes’ vote in the referendum. According to the constitution, he said, public servants face no restrictions in campaigning for the ‘Yes’ vote. Nation's future hinges on ‘Yes’ vote in referendum: Land Adviser At the event, Special Guest Monir Haider, Special Assistant (Consensus) to the Chief Adviser, said the main aim of the 2024 mass uprising was to create a fascism-free and inequality-free society. “This referendum serves to gauge public support for a new Bangladesh and a new settlement. Voting in favour of the July National Charter will constitutionally block the path of fascism,” he added. Presided over by Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md Mokhtar Ahmed, the meeting was addressed, among others, by Prof Dr Md Maksud Helali, Vice-Chancellor of Khulna University of Engineering & Technology, Range DIG Md Rezaul Haque, and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md Zahidul Hasan. Officials from all 10 districts of Khulna Division, including district, divisional, and upazila-level officers, election officials, representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, teachers and students from schools and colleges, civil society members, NGO representatives and media personnel, attended the consultation meeting.

Independent candidate of Brahmanbaria-2 and expelled BNP leader Rumeen Farhana alleged on Thursday that she was forced to come to Dhaka on the first day of the electioneering, accusing the administration and police of bias. “Today I have come to the Election Commission with my written explanation. I was supposed to be in the field, but I was forced to come to Dhaka because I think the administration and the police are not as neutral as they should be,” she said after meeting three election commissioners at Nirbachan Bhaban in the capital. The Electoral Enquiry and Adjudication Committee on Monday last issued a show-cause notice to former MP Rumeen Farhana over alleged violations of the electoral code of conduct in Brahmanbaria-2 constituency, which includes Sarail and Ashuganj upazilas and two unions of Bijoynagar upazila. The notice accused her of obstructing judicial duties and allegedly threatening an executive magistrate and showing a thumb gesture at the magistrate during a mobile court operation. In the notice, Rumeen was asked to submit a written explanation by 2:00 pm on January 22. Responding to the allegation, Rumeen said she had already submitted her written reply to the inquiry committee. She further alleged that her supporters had been attacked, beaten and sent to hospitals, with some sustaining head injuries, while houses were vandalised and set on fire. “So far, no cases have been filed. “I have come to inform the Election Commission that as an independent candidate, I am to contest against major political parties (in the election),” she said. ‘Will Tell EU’ Rumeen also said she would brief European Union election observers about the situation later in the day. “I want to say very clearly that no political party should dare to play games or manipulate the election process in Bangladesh. People have struggled for 15 years for a fair election. Regardless of which party we belonged to, we fought from our respective positions. We will not allow another manipulated election in Bangladesh,” she said. Replying to a question, Rumeen said she would definitely remain in the election race and continue campaigning. “I want a fair and credible election. No matter what happens, I will stay in the race till the end,” she added, saying she would keep the media and observers informed regularly. The Election Commission on December 11 announced the schedule to hold the 13th parliament election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order simultaneously on February 12 next. The election campaign began officially on Thursday after the Commission allocated electoral symbols on Wednesday to as many as 1,972 candidates contesting the upcoming election from 298 constituencies, excluding Pabna-1 and Pabna-2. The number of contesting candidates would rise further once contestants from Pabna-1 and Pabna-2 are added. Currently, there are nine valid candidates in the two constituencies. Altogether, the total number of candidates across the 300 constituencies stands at 1,981—comprising 1,732 candidates from 51 registered political parties and 249 independent candidates.

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent Christensen on Thursday reiterated strong US support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition and lauded the interim government’s efforts towards the upcoming elections and wide-ranging reforms. The Ambassador called on National Security Advisor Dr Khalilur Rahman at the latter's office on Thursday afternoon and discussed issues of mutual interest. During the hour-long meeting, they discussed key aspects of Bangladesh-US relations, including the reciprocal tariff agreement, support to Rohingyas, immigration including visa bond and the return of undocumented Bangladeshis from the USA. American business and investment in Bangladesh, as well as regional issues of common concern were also discussed. Dr Rahman welcomed Ambassador Christensen as the new American envoy to Bangladesh and recalled his many contributions to promote bilateral relations during his previous stint in Dhaka and also in his various positions in the US government in Washington DC. He expressed the hope that the relations between the two countries will reach new heights during his current tenure, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing. Political and Economic Counsellor of the US embassy in Dhaka Eric Geelan was present during the meeting.  

The Council of Advisers on Thursday approved a proposal to declare February 11 a public holiday, in addition to the public holiday on the voting day on February 12, to help voters participate and ensure law and order management in an effective manner. The approval was given at the Council’s weekly meeting held at the Chief Adviser’s Office, with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus in the chair. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam briefed reporters at the Foreign Service Academy on the outcomes of the meeting. EC warns against code violations over voter data collection campaign day Chief Adviser’s Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad was also present at the briefing. The Council approved the proposal following a high-level meeting held on Wednesday to review election preparations and security issues. Alam said the meeting also approved an additional holiday on February 10 exclusively for workers in industrial zones. Workers in industrial zones will enjoy holidays on February 10 and 11. Along with the public holiday on the voting day on February 12, this will result in a three-day break. Alam said February 10 will apply only to industrial zone workers as a holiday. 288 BNP, 224 Jamaat candidates in Bangladesh election race He said the reason behind the decision was to allow voters currently residing in Dhaka, industrial towns, and other major cities to travel to their respective hometowns to cast their votes, as February 11 falls on the day before the election. The decision is also expected to help authorities manage law and order more effectively during the election period, Alam said. An official notification regarding the decisions will be issued shortly.  

The Bangladesh government has officially confirmed that the national cricket team will not travel to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup, citing ‘genuine security risks' amidst a volatile regional political climate. The announcement made by the Sports Adviser, Asif Nazrul, on Thursday, effectively defies the ultimatum set by the International Cricket Council (ICC) just a day earlier. Speaking to the media, the Sports Adviser made it clear that the safety of the delegation is non-negotiable. “Bangladesh is not travelling to India to play the World Cup due to the security risk—this is a decision made by the Bangladesh government. No other entity has any rights to take this decision,” he said. Read more: Travel to India for T20 World Cup or be replaced: ICC warns Bangladesh This statement overrides the Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) attempts to negotiate and directly challenges the ICC's insistence on the original schedule. Addressing the potential financial and sporting repercussions of a boycott, the Adviser argued that national dignity and human safety carry a higher value. He urged the public and media to consider the alternative cost of capitulation. “You should also consider what the damage would be if we played the World Cup,” he said. “Pushing our players, fans, and journalists into a genuine risk amidst this regional political situation, with our heads bowed down... is a damage that must be weighed.” Despite the ICC's vote on Wednesday to replace Bangladesh with Scotland if they refuse to travel, the government remains hopeful for a last-minute diplomatic solution involving a venue change. Read more: India wins T20 series against New Zealand by 48 runs The Adviser insisted that the demand to play in Sri Lanka is valid and rooted in history. “We still hope the ICC will do justice,” he said. “There are many precedents in the world where matches are played at a different venue due to security risks. We have not given up hope yet.”

A night of political violence left two people dead in Singra upazila of Natore district early Thursday, as a college teacher was reportedly hacked to death and a woman was burnt alive after her house was allegedly set ablaze. The deceased were identified as Rezaul Karim, 53, an assistant professor at Bil Haloti Trimohoni College and a member of Singra Upazila’s Zia Parishad, and Sabia, 75, mother of local Awami League activist Abdul Wahab. According to police, the incidents took place in Kumarpara area within a short span of time, triggering panic among local residents. Fraternal clash between BNP activists in Mymensingh leaves 10 injured Officer-in-Charge of Singra Police Station ASM Abdur Noor said a group of assailants arrived on a motorbike around 11pm and called Rezaul Karim out of his house. He was then hacked indiscriminately, leaving him dead on the spot. Shortly after the killing, a fire broke out at the house of Abdul Wahab. Sabia, who was inside the house at the time, became trapped and died in the blaze. Police suspect that supporters of Rezaul Karim may have set the house on fire, suspecting Wahab’s involvement in the murder of the college teacher. The OC, however, emphasised that the matter is still under investigation. Fire service personnel and police rushed to the scene following reports of the fire and later recovered the bodies of both victims. Most incidents involving minorities were criminal, not communal: Govt The back-to-back incidents have shocked the local community, raising concerns over political tensions and retaliatory violence in the area. Police said legal action will be taken in connection with both deaths, and investigations are underway to identify those responsible.

The Election Commission (EC) on Thursday warned that collecting voters’ personal information and national identity card (NID) details in the name of electioneering is a punishable offence. “It has come to the Bangladesh Election Commission’s notice that some people are collecting voters’ personal data and National Identity (NID) under the guise of election campaigning. According to the National Identity Card Registration Act 2010, one cannot carry or transfer another's National Identity Card (NID)," said EC in a press release. The electioneering officially began on Thursday (January 22) ahead of the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum scheduled to be held simultaneously on February 12. Referring to provisions of the Parliamentary Election Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates Rules, 2025, the Commission said no political party, candidate or anyone on their behalf is allowed to offer or promise any donation, contribution or gift to any person, groups or institutions residing in the electoral area. “These activities are punishable offences under these rules. The Election Commission urges all citizens and organisations to refrain from such practices,” the EC said. Earlier, on January 13, a BNP delegation lodged a complaint with the Election Commission, alleging that a particular political party has been collecting voters’ NID details and mobile phone numbers across the country. Calling the move ‘suspicious and unprecedented’, BNP Central Election Steering Committee Chairman Nazrul Islam Khan said such activities could be aimed at creating fake voters or influencing voting behavior. Nazrul Islam said the collection of mobile financial service numbers could indicate the possibility of monetary transactions. The election campaign began officially on Thursday after the Commission allocated electoral symbols on Wednesday to as many as 1,972 candidates contesting the upcoming election from 298 constituencies, excluding Pabna-1 and Pabna-2. The number of contesting candidates would rise further once contestants from Pabna-1 and Pabna-2 are added. Currently, there are nine valid candidates in the two constituencies. Altogether, the total number of candidates across the 300 constituencies stands at 1,981—comprising 1,732 candidates from 51 registered political parties and 249 independent candidates. The Election Commission on December 11 announced the schedule to hold the 13th parliament election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order simultaneously on February 12 next.  

Fifteen platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) will be deployed in Jhenaidah and Magura districts to maintain law and order during the national election. Besides, ten temporary base camps will be set up in ten upazilas of the two districts , said Lieutenant Colonel Rafikul Alam, Commanding Officer of Maheshpur Battalion (58 BGB) at a press briefing held at the battalion headquarters on Thursday afternoon. BGB will perform duties in six parliamentary constituencies of Jhenaidah and Magura districts. After deploying  BGB members in election-sensitive areas from January 29 to 31 temporary checkpoints will be set up at 55 key locations  in the two districts to conduct search operations, he said. The force will work in coordination with the army, police, RAB and Ansar members, he said. Regular patrol teams will also conduct operations to ensure security at polling centres, he added. Efforts are also underway to recover illegal arms in border areas and to motivate voters to participate in the election through public awareness meetings, he said.  

Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) on Thursday threatened to shut down all spinning mills across the country from February 1 if the government does not withdraw duty-free import facilities for certain categories of cotton yarn. BTMA President Showkat Aziz Russell issued the ultimatum at a press conference held at the association’s office in Dhaka. The association is demanding the immediate suspension of bond facilities on the import of 10–30 count cotton yarn, arguing that the measure is essential to protect the local spinning industry from what it describes as unfair competition. 11 more institutions inc. banks, municipal bodies join BIDA’s One-Stop Service portal The dispute centres on the National Board of Revenue’s (NBR) bond facility, which allows export-oriented industries to import raw materials duty-free on the condition that the finished products are exported. According to the BTMA, this policy is severely undermining local spinning mills, particularly those producing 10–30 count yarns. Highlighting the urgency of the issue, the BTMA said the government must implement the Commerce Ministry’s recommendation to withdraw the facility within the current month. Russell clarified that withdrawing the duty-free facility should not be confused with the imposition of a new tariff. Importers, he said, would still be able to claim duty drawbacks from the government under existing rules. The demand follows a recent recommendation by the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission (BTTC), which advised the Commerce Ministry to suspend the bond facility for 10–30 count cotton yarn. Proposed amendments to Bank Company Act faces fierce opposition from BAB Local millers say 10–30 count yarn is a core product of the domestic spinning sector, and the continued influx of duty-free imported yarn of the same count is making local production economically unsustainable. Earlier, the Commerce Ministry formally recommended to the NBR that the bond facility be suspended to safeguard domestic investment and ensure a level playing field for local textile manufacturers.

A case has been filed in connection with the murder of a Rab official in a gun attack by armed criminals at Jungle Salimpur in Sitakunda of Chattogram. The case was filed against 29 identified and 150-200 unidentified people with Sitakunda Police Station on Wednesday night, said Shakila Yasmin Suchona, additional superintendent (Sitakunda Circle) of Chattogram Police. Yeasin, a suspected criminal and also a resident of Jungle Salimpur, was made the prime accused in the case. So far, three people - Zahid, Yunus and Arif- have been arrested in connection with the incident. Police are interrogating the arrestees, said Officer-in-Charge of Sitakunda Police Station, Mohinul Islam. Motaleb Hossain, a Deputy Assistant Director (DAD) of RAB-7 was killed and three others were injured in a gun attack by armed criminals during a drive to recover illegal arms in the hilly area of Jungle Salimpur in Sitakunda on January 19.

Major General E. Darrin Cox, Commanding General of the 18th Theater Medical Command, U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC), visited Bangladesh from January 18-22 to strengthen medical partnerships with the Bangladesh Army Medical Forces. This engagement supported U.S. Indo-pacific Command (INDOPACOM) and U.S.Army Pacific (USARPAC) goals to enhance collaboration and build partner capacity, said U.S. Mission Spokesperson Poornima Rai. She said meetings in Dhaka and visits to Jalalabad Cantonment and CombinedMilitary Hospital (CMH) in Sylhet laid the foundation for future joint exercisesand expert exchanges in key medical specialties. Major General Cox’s visit highlights the United States’ ongoing commitment to strategic health cooperation with Bangladesh, Rai said.  

Nato said the issue of Greenland’s sovereignty was not discussed in a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, after Trump claimed a “framework of a future deal” had been discussed. Trump said the United States is exploring a potential deal on Greenland following the talks with Nato. He also dropped planned tariffs on eight European countries and repeated that he would not use force to take the island. Diplomatic sources, cited by US media, said there was no agreement for American control or ownership of Greenland. Rutte said he did not discuss Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland during his meeting with Trump. Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Denmark is open to talks on security, investment and the economy, but sovereignty is not negotiable. She said decisions on issues related to Denmark and Greenland can only be taken by Denmark and Greenland. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said allies have been working on ideas to strengthen Arctic security, including an “Arctic sentry” plan under Nato. She said the UK has stayed firm in supporting Danish and Greenlandic sovereignty. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is due to meet Frederiksen for talks later.   With inputs from BBC

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman urged voters to back the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ in the February-12 election to ensure much-sought  good governance and warned them against vote robbery as he hit the campaign trail in Sylhet city on Thursday. “Seeking votes for the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ on the 12th February, I want to say one thing, if, Inshallah, a BNP government is formed in the coming days, we will run the country on the basis of justice, following the example of the Holy Prophet (pbuh),” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while addressing the first election rally at Alia Madrasa field in Sylhet city where thousands of party supporters gathered ahead of the 13th national election. Tarique alleged that attempts are underway to manipulate votes from abroad through the misuse of postal ballots. “You have seen in newspapers and on social media how postal ballots sent to various countries, including the Middle East, have been taken away.” He said the Awami League fled the country on 5 August 2024 after indulging in vote robbery, and that the same plots have now begun again. Stating that people have already seen signs of a conspiracy to steal votes, the BNP Chairman said, “We must remain alert against such plots. They are conspiring from abroad.” The BNP chairman also referred to the sacrifices made during the anti-government movement and the student-led July mass uprising, for restoring democracy and voting rights. He also recalled party leaders and activists who were killed or subjected to enforced disappearance during the long struggle against the Sheikh Hasina regime. Tarique named missing Sylhet BNP leader M Ilias Ali and said 13 people were killed in Sylhet during the 2024 mass uprising. “Through the sacrifices of these lives, as we set out on the path to reclaim our rights, conspirators have already begun plotting.” Sylhet sets the stage as Tarique ready to launch BNP’s election campaign On 5 August 2024, he said the people of Bangladesh proved that a united nation can defeat any conspiracy. “Will you resist again if needed?” he asked the crowd, which responded with chants. Tarique said that elected on 12 January, a BNP-led government will run the country on the basis of justice and fairness. He also outlined several proposed programmes, including family cards for women, farmer cards, health support schemes, employment initiatives for youth, dredging canals and reforms in education and healthcare. “We have freed the country from autocracy and started the journey to restore democracy. That journey will begin in full once you elect the sheaf of paddy on 12 January,” Tarique said. Tarique said his party wants to stand by farmers across Bangladesh and would restart canal excavation programmes to improve irrigation and water management if BNP wins the election. He said the canal excavation drive during Ziaur Rahman’s tenure helped address irrigation needs for farmers and eased water shortages and pledged to revive the programme to bring water back to canals, wetlands and rivers. Tarique also accused the previous government of looting public money in the name of development over the past 15–16 years. “You surely remember how a few years ago water was released from over there and the entire Sylhet city went under floodwater. And how, over the last 15 to 16 years, this country was mortgaged to another country. That is why I said “Not Delhi, not Pindi, not any other country—Bangladesh comes first.” He said the ‘Take Back Bangladesh’ campaign is not only about protecting democracy but also about wider commitments, including canal dredging, standing by farmers, empowering women and creating jobs. Tarique Rahman promises family cards for four crore households The rally began shortly before midday. Tarique took to the stage at 12:28pm and spoke for about 23 minutes. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, along with leaders from Sylhet and Sunamganj, also addressed the gathering.

Jagannath Hall of Dhaka University has completed all preparations to celebrate Saraswati Puja on Friday. A total of 76 puja mandaps have been set up under the supervision of Jagannath Hall administration, said a press release on Thursday. The annual festival will be held on the historic Jagannath Hall campus with participation from students of different departments and institutes of the university. The programme will include traditional religious rituals, cultural events, devotional music and offerings, reflecting the long-standing heritage of Saraswati Puja at the hall. Saraswati Puja is being celebrated across country Special arrangements have also been made to ensure a welcoming environment for visiting devotees including women and children. The hall administration said comprehensive security measures have been taken to ensure the safety of students, devotees and visitors in coordination with  Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and the National Security Intelligence (NSI). To maintain discipline and ensure a peaceful celebration, the administration also issued some directives including restrictions on fireworks and the use of hazardous materials. The authorities said Jagannath Hall has historically upheld religious harmony and cultural inclusivity and urged students, teachers, staff and visitors to cooperate to uphold the festive spirit while maintaining discipline and mutual respect.

Medical equipment were gutted in a fire that broke out at the storeroom of Galachipa Upazila Health Complex in Patuakhali early Thursday. The fire broke out at a storeroom on the second floor of the health complex around 5 am and engulfed it. On information, two firefighting units rushed to the spot and extinguished the blaze after two hours of frantic efforts. All patients were safely evacuated and no casualties were reported. The fire gutted valuables including medicines, documents, surgical equipment, computer and other essential equipment, said Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr Md Mezbah Uddin. However, the cause of the fire will be determined after an investigation, he added. The extent of losses from the fire could not be ascertained yet.  

The government has started selling rice at a subsidised rate of Tk 30 per kg under the additional Open Market Sale (OMS) programme in 419 upazilas to stabilise rice prices and provide price support to people. Under the programme, one metric tonnes of rice will be distributed in each upazila. Read more: CAB seeks govt action to rein in LPG, sugar, edible oil prices The additional OMS programme will operate alongside the regular OMS, said a PID handout. Currently, under the regular OMS programme, 1,417.5 metric tonnes of flour (Tk 24 per kg for loose flour and Tk 55 for a 2-kg packet) and 1,175 metric tonnes of rice per day are sold in 1,081 centers in  12 city corporations, 52 district municipal areas, 15 labour-intensive upazilas, and five labour-intensive municipalities at subsidised rates of Tk 30 per kilogram. Although there is adequate food stock, some areas of the country have recently seen a sporadic rise in the price of fine rice, it said. Read more: Rice prices keep food inflation high despite slight easing in Nov: GED The Ministry of Food has instructed regular market monitoring in these areas and necessary legal actions to prevent price hikes.

The restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant was halted Thursday, just hours after resuming for the first time since the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (TEPCO), operator of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant in north-central Japan said, the suspension of the No. 6 reactor was caused by a technical glitch involving control rods, which are crucial for safely starting and shutting down reactors. TEPCO confirmed there was no safety risk and said it was assessing the situation, but did not provide a timeline for when operations would resume. The restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa facility is being closely watched, as TEPCO also manages the Fukushima Daiichi plant, which suffered meltdowns following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Japan, which has limited domestic energy resources, is accelerating its use of nuclear power to meet rising electricity demand. All seven reactors at Kashiwazaki-Kariwa have been offline since 2012, a year after the Fukushima disaster, which left surrounding areas contaminated with radioactive fallout. TEPCO continues to manage the ongoing cleanup at Fukushima, with costs estimated at 22 trillion yen ($139 billion), while also working to restore public trust after investigations highlighted the company’s poor safety culture and collusion with regulators. Since 2011, 14 other nuclear reactors have resumed operations across Japan. Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, located about 220 kilometers northwest of Tokyo, marks the first TEPCO-run unit to restart. The No. 6 reactor alone could produce 1.35 million kilowatts of electricity, enough for over a million households in the capital region. Read More: Power restored to Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant after monthlong outage With a combined capacity of 8 million kilowatts, Kashiwazaki-Kariwa remains the world’s largest nuclear plant, though TEPCO plans to gradually bring only two of its seven reactors back online in the coming years.    

China on Thursday reacted to China-related remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh, urging the US side ‘to be more aware of its responsibilities, and focus more on actions’ that are ‘conducive to Bangladesh’s stability’ as well as the development and cooperation in the region. "Such remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh are irresponsible and utterly unfounded," said the Spokesperson at the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, refuting China-related remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh. The spokesperson said they confuse right and wrong, and are ‘completely out of ulterior motives’, according to the reaction shared by the Embassy from its verified Facebook page. New US Ambassador to Bangladesh raises  concern over China’s regional influence Over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the spokesperson said, Bangladesh and China have always supported each other, treated one another as equals, and engaged in win-win cooperation. "The China-Bangladesh cooperation has delivered benefits to and received broad support from the people of both countries. It is conducive to the development and stability in the region," said the spokesperson. China said the cooperation between Bangladesh and China is a matter between the two countries and their peoples, and brooks no interference or finger-pointing by the US side. Newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen on Wednesday said he is concerned about broader Chinese influence in South Asia, stressing that they have a host of options available to try to help their partner militaries meet their capability needs. ‘You know, as I said in my hearing…I am concerned about broader Chinese influence in South Asia. I think the United States government has been very clear about that," he said while responding to a question during an interaction with a small group of journalists. US doesn't take sides in Bangladesh elections: Ambassador Christensen "And as I committed to my hearing, I will always engage with our friends in the government—be it the interim government or the newly elected government-- to clearly articulate the risks of involvement  with the Chinese in certain areas should the Bangladesh government choose to go down that path," Ambassador Christensen said.

Bangladesh Bank has reversed a contentious policy that barred depositors of five recently merged banks from receiving profits for 2024 and 2025, following widespread criticism and ethical concerns. The central bank’s move restores interest payouts, easing tensions among affected account holders. Under the new decision, depositors will now receive a 4 percent profit rate for those two years. Starting from the current year (2026), market-based profit rates will apply. Currently, the bank has announced a profit rate of approximately 8.5 percent. Read more: Banking sector reform can’t be done overnight: Salehuddin The central bank communicated this updated policy via a letter sent to the administrators of the affected banks on Wednesday (January 21). Backtrack on ‘Haircut’ Policy The reversal comes just a week after a January 14 directive which stated that no profit would be applicable to any deposits from January 1, 2024, to December 28, 2025. That letter even suggested that any profit already withdrawn by depositors would be "adjusted" from their principal amount, a process known as a ‘haircut’. The initial announcement sparked widespread outrage. Many depositors gathered at various branches of the newly formed Sammilito Islamic Bank PLC to express their anger. Furthermore, the Central Shariah Board intervened, stating it was ‘not Shariah-compliant’ to shift the burden of embezzlement, caused by the negligence of the banks and the regulator, onto the depositors. Read more: Depositors of 5 merged banks can withdraw Tk 2 lakh initially, then Tk 1 lakh every 3 months  The government recently created Sammilito Islamic Bank PLC by merging five Shariah-based lenders—Exim Bank, Social Islami Bank, First Security Islami Bank, Global Islami Bank, and Union Bank—that were weakened by massive loan irregularities and embezzlement. These banks hold approximately Tk 1.42 lakh crore in deposits from nearly 76 lakh depositors. In contrast, out of the Tk 1.92 lakh crore distributed as loans, roughly 77 percent has become defaulted. Shariah and Accountability Internal debates within the central bank and insights from Islamic banking experts played a key role in this policy shift. Experts pointed out that: Mudaraba Principles: In Shariah banking, depositors are "Sahib-al-Mal" (capital providers) and the bank is the ‘Mudarib’ (manager). Liability for Negligence While depositors normally share business losses, Shariah standards (specifically AAOIFI standards followed in Bangladesh) dictate that if a loss occurs due to the bank's negligence, misconduct, or breach of trust, the bank alone must bear the liability. Read more: Bangladesh Bank to ease rules, give banks more freedom: Governor By reinstating the profit, the central bank acknowledges that depositors should not be penalised for the systemic failures and financial crimes that led to the banks' instability.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has said it continues to work closely with sector partners to scale up assistance and address urgent and evolving needs, stressing that fire risks remain high in the Rohingya camps. While immediate assistance continues, the latest incident underscores the persistent fire risks facing refugee communities in Cox’s Bazar, which hosts more than one million Rohingya refugees, it said. The fire risks remain high, particularly during the dry season, due to the dense layout of the camps and the use of highly flammable materials in temporary shelters, IOM said. It launched an emergency response following a large fire in a Rohingya refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar early Tuesday morning. Read more: Canada reaffirms commitment to dignity and justice for Rohingya Relief efforts are being carried out in close coordination with the Government of Bangladesh and humanitarian partners to ensure timely and appropriate assistance to affected families. “When fires strike in overcrowded camp settings, the impact extends far beyond damaged infrastructure,” said Lance Bonneau, IOM Chief of Mission in Bangladesh. “Families lose shelter, essential belongings, and access to basic services, increasing immediate protection risks. Our response is guided by a clear responsibility to protect lives, uphold dignity and ensure that those affected receive assistance quickly and safely, so families can begin to regain a sense of normalcy.” The fire affected more than 2,000 refugees, causing extensive damage to shelters and camp-based facilities. No fatalities or major injuries have been reported.  More than 400 shelters were damaged and camp infrastructure was severely impacted, including over 160 water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities such as water points and latrines, as well as 11 learning centres and two mosques. Beyond the destruction of shelters, the fire also destabilized the hillside terrain on which much of the camp is constructed, damaging drainage networks and public infrastructure, and increasing risks related to access and erosion. After the fire was contained, IOM deployed health teams and ambulances to support those with minor injuries and worked with partners to rapidly assess damage and immediate needs. Building on these assessments, IOM and its partners rapidly deployed specialized teams in shelter, WASH, and protection to support affected families. Within 24 hours of the incident, IOM’s camp management team, together with refugee volunteers, cleared debris from the fire-affected areas to restore safe access for emergency assistance and essential services. Over 49.5 lakh Bangladeshis internally displaced by natural disasters: IOM In coordination with the World Food Programme (WFP), emergency food assistance was provided, while affected households received emergency shelter assistance, blankets, floor mats, mosquito nets, and portable solar lights. Following previous devastating fires, including the March 2021 incident that displaced 45,000 people, IOM and humanitarian partners have continued to strengthen refugee-led emergency preparedness and response mechanisms to enable faster, safer, and more effective action when hazards occur.

Seven countries, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt, have agreed to join US President Donald Trump’s newly formed Board of Peace, according to a joint statement. Israel had earlier confirmed its participation. Trump on Wednesday said Russian President Vladimir Putin had also accepted the invitation, though Moscow later clarified it was still under consideration. The board, initially linked to ending the two-year Israel-Hamas conflict and overseeing Gaza reconstruction, does not specifically mention Palestine in its charter and appears aimed at taking on functions similar to the UN. Saudi Arabia said the Muslim-majority nations – Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan and Qatar – support efforts for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, reconstruction, and what they called a “just and lasting peace”. The body’s charter will take effect once three states formally agree, with member nations holding renewable three-year terms. Contributions of $1 billion will secure permanent seats. Trump will serve as chairman and US representative with authority to appoint executive board members. The White House last week named seven founding Executive Board members, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, and former UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov. Phase one of the plan involved a ceasefire, partial prisoner exchange, limited Israeli withdrawal, and increased humanitarian aid. Israel says the second phase, including reconstruction and demilitarisation, will proceed only after the return of the last hostages. Humanitarian conditions remain fragile. Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry reports over 460 Palestinian deaths from Israeli strikes since the ceasefire, while Israel reports three soldiers killed in Palestinian attacks. The board faces challenges, as Hamas has resisted disarming without recognition of a Palestinian state, and Israel has not fully committed to withdrawing from Gaza.   With inputs from BBC