United News of Bangladesh

Brent Christensen, confirmed by the US Senate as the next Ambassador to Bangladesh, is likely to arrive in Dhaka next month to take up his responsibility and lead the Embassy team to build strong ties with both the current interim government and its democratically elected successor to advance the Bangladesh-US relationship. “I am honored to be confirmed by the United States Senate and deeply grateful to President Trump for the opportunity to serve as the next United States Ambassador to Bangladesh,” he said on Friday in a message from his Linkedin account. During his nomination hearing at the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Ambassador Christensen said the United States supports Bangladesh in its journey toward a bright and democratic future. He said the people of Bangladesh will go to the polls early next year – the country’s most consequential election in decades – to choose a new government and a new path forward. Ambassador Christensen also referred to his “over twenty years of experience working on US policy towards Bangladesh” across his Foreign Service career, including a prior tour in Dhaka. He served as Counselor for Political and Economic Affairs at the US Embassy here from 2019-2021, according to his official profile on the State Department’s website. Early on in his career, he also served as Bangladesh Country Officer in the Office of Pakistan and Bangladesh Affairs, which no longer exists under that name, at the State Department. His other appointments include Deputy Director, Office of Regional Security and Arms Transfers, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs at the Department of State (2016-2019), and as a Pearson Fellow on detail to the majority staff of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific (2015-2016). He has also been Special Assistant to the Special Representative for North Korea Policy, Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs Cyber Coordinator, Deputy Counselor for Economic Affairs at the US Embassy in Manila, Deputy Economic Counselor at the US Embassy in San Salvador, Economic Officer at the US Embassy in Riyadh, and Vice Consul at the US Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The US Embassy in Dhaka has been running without an ambassador since Peter Haas wrapped up his tenure in the summer of 2024. Since then, a series of charge de affaires or CDAs have filled the role.

Two teens met a tragic end as their motorcycle crashed into a truck from behind after being chased by police in Chapainawabganj Sadar upazila on Friday afternoon.  The deceased were identified as Rifat Ali, 18, son of Shah Alam, and Sohag Ahmed, 19, son of Ashraful Islam, of Azaipur-Pochapukur and Chandlai-Jorbagan areas respectively of the district town. According to witnesses, patrolling police signalled the motorcycle to stop at the Mor on the Chapainawabganj-Shibganj road on Friday afternoon. Ignoring the signal, they tried to speed away but the bike lost control and hit the truck from the behind, leaving Rifat dead on the spot and Sohag critically injured. Locals initially took Sohag to Chapainawabganj General Hospital but he succumbed to his injuries on way to Rajshahi. Sohag’s father Ashraful Islam alleged that the duo was hit by the truck and thrown onto the road when police chased them, leading to the fatality. Enraged by this, locals blockaded the road at the Mor with one of the bodies, disrupting the traffic movement. The agitators carried out vandalism at a police box at Bishwaroad Mor and damaged furniture by setting fire on those after dragging out. Besides, the angry people vandalised a police outpost in the nearby Shantibagh area and set fire to a motorcycle there. Though police tried to bring the situation under control, the mob chased them, triggering tension in the area. Youth stabbed to death in Chapainawabganj The road blockade continued until 7:30 pm while normalcy returned after Army personnel had arrived at the scene. Additional Superintendent of Police NM Wasim Firoz said, “Situation is under control now. The bodies of the deceased have been handed over to the families.” He said action will be taken if police members are found guilty of performing duty.    

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk on Friday urged the authorities to conduct a ‘prompt, impartial, thorough, and transparent’ investigation into the attack that led to Sharif Osman Bin Hadi’s death, and to ensure due process and accountability for those responsible. Türk said he was deeply troubled by the killing of Hadi, a prominent leader of last year’s protests in Bangladesh, who died of his injuries after being shot last week. Türk called for calm and for everyone to refrain from violence. “Retaliation and revenge will only deepen divisions and undermine the rights of all,” he said. Several protests erupted at various locations around the country after Hadi’s death was announced on Thursday, six days after he was shot. Some buildings were torched and vandalised, and a number of journalists have reportedly been assaulted. Udichi central office set on fire With the parliamentary elections scheduled for February, Türk said it was vital to ensure an environment in which all individuals can participate safely and peacefully in public life, and freely express different views. “I urge the authorities to uphold the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and security of journalists at this critical time, and prevent further escalation of unrest,” Türk said. The High Commissioner said his Office stands ready to work with the authorities and all stakeholders to support efforts that uphold human rights and prevent further violence.  

Jagannath University Journalists’ Association (JnUJA) has strongly condemned and protested the attack, vandalism, arson, and looting at the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. At the same time, the association has demanded the swift identification of those involved in these heinous acts and that they be brought under the law. In a statement issued today, Friday, JnUJA President Imran Hossain and General Secretary Mahtab Limon expressed this protest in a joint statement. Condemning the incident, they said that a planned attack on media offices is a direct assault on independent journalism. Such violence is unacceptable under any circumstances in a democratic state. They further stated that the journalistic community is currently living under extreme insecurity. Alongside journalists, their families are also spending their days in deep concern and anxiety. An attack on media institutions is essentially an attempt to suppress truth and freedom of expression. The harassment of Editor’s Council President and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir while he was on duty in front of The Daily Star building during the attack is extremely alarming. Harassing a senior editor in this manner sets an insulting and frightening precedent for the journalistic community. Additionally, expressing deep sorrow and anger over the killing of journalist Imdadul Haque Milon in Khulna, JnUJA leaders said that if impunity for the murder of journalists continues, professional security will face even greater threats. They called for those involved in this killing to be brought to justice without delay. The Jagannath University Journalists’ Association expects the state to take effective measures immediately to ensure the safety of media workers and to play a responsible role in protecting freedom of expression. JnUJA President Imran Hossain said, “We had hoped that in the present time the media would become more independent, but the reality is different. Attacking the media means plundering freedom of speech. We urge that fascist behavior not be directed toward the media.”  

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi on Friday welcomed former Iraqi president Barham Salih for being elected as the head of the UN refugee agency (UNHCR). Salih was elected by the UN General Assembly in New York through a competitive selection process involving candidates from several countries. He will assume office on January 1, 2026, with Geneva as his duty station. Grandi said Salih has been engaged in high-level public service for more than three decades and possesses resolute leadership qualities and thoughtful diplomatic judgment. “He comes from a country that has experienced conflict, persecution and displacement in recent years, which gives him a direct understanding of the challenges facing refugees today,” Grandi said. He added that Salih’s experience and background make him well suited to lead UNHCR at a time when global displacement has reached unprecedented levels. Grandi’s 10-year tenure as UN High Commissioner for Refugees will end on December 31. He took office in January 2016 and has since led the agency through major global displacement crises, including those in Syria, Ukraine and Sudan. Despite significant cuts to humanitarian funding this year, UNHCR continues to operate in 128 countries worldwide. Earlier this month, UNHCR marked 75 years of service dedicated to the protection of forcibly displaced people across the globe.

Turkish authorities have launched an investigation into an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that crashed in northwest Turkey, just days after another drone was shot down after entering the country’s airspace from the Black Sea, local media reported Friday. Residents in Kocaeli province discovered the damaged drone in a field, prompting official inquiries into its wreckage. The origin of the UAV remains unclear, though some reports suggest it may be Russian-made. Turkish officials have not yet provided comments on the incident. Earlier this week, Turkish F-16 jets intercepted and destroyed what officials described as an “out of control” drone after it violated Turkish airspace. The defense ministry said the drone was taken down in a safe location to protect civilians and air traffic. Following the incident, Turkey warned both Russia and Ukraine to exercise caution over Black Sea security amid escalating regional tensions. The ministry added that the downed drone likely broke into fragments, making identification and technical analysis challenging, with investigations ongoing.    

Udichi Shilpigosthi’s central office has been set on fire on Topkhana Road in the capital on Friday evening. The blaze originated around 7:42pm on the first floor of the building adjacent to the BMA Building. Four units of Fire Service and Civil Defence rushed to the spot to douse the fire. Rozina Khanom, duty officer at the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters Control Room, said the cause of the fire could not be confirmed immediately. Suraiya Parvin, Music and Dance Affairs Secretary of the central committee of Udichi Shilpigosthi alleged that miscreants set fire to the office and fled the scene immediately. Witnesses said the incident occurred inside the lane opposite to the Jatiya Press Club where additional police, BGB and Army members have been deployed due to huge crowd. Due to the congestion, traffic movement from Kadam Foara crossing toward Paltan has been suspended on one side of the road, police said.

NASA has provided answers to common questions about the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, which is set to make its closest approach to Earth on December 19, 2025. 3I/ATLAS, the third confirmed interstellar object to enter the Solar System after ‘Oumuamua in 2017 and 2I/Borisov in 2019, was discovered on July 1, 2025, by the ATLAS telescope in Chile. NASA confirmed that the comet approached from the direction of the Sagittarius constellation, moving at around 137,000 miles per hour (221,000 km/h) and accelerating to 153,000 miles per hour (246,000 km/h) near the Sun. The comet is believed to have originated from the thick disk of the Milky Way, with an estimated age of 7.6 to 14 billion years. It follows a hyperbolic trajectory, meaning it is passing through the Solar System only once and will continue into interstellar space. Scientists say 3I/ATLAS poses no threat to Earth, maintaining a distance of at least 170 million miles (270 million km) at closest approach. Observations show the comet is active, with a nucleus diameter estimated between 1,400 feet and 3.5 miles (440 meters to 5.6 km), composed of water ice, carbon dioxide, and other gases. Its reddish hue is similar to D-type asteroids and previous interstellar object 2I/Borisov. Though not visible to the naked eye, 3I/ATLAS can be observed using telescopes. Its passage offers scientists a rare chance to study material from another star system, revealing insights into the composition and history of interstellar objects. ESA’s XMM-Newton telescope has also captured the comet in X-ray light, showing a massive debris cloud and typical cometary activity.   With inputs from NDTV

American rapper Wiz Khalifa has been sentenced to nine months in prison by a Romanian court for smoking cannabis during a live performance. The Constanța Court of Appeal ruled that Khalifa, whose real name is Thomaz Cameron Jibril, must serve the sentence in custody after overturning an earlier fine of 3,600 Romanian lei (£619; $829) for drug possession. The court described the act as “ostentatious” and said the rapper sent a message normalising illegal conduct, potentially encouraging drug use among young people. The incident occurred at the Beach, Please! festival in Costinesti last year, where Khalifa smoked a joint on stage. Police had briefly detained Jibril after the concert on July 13, 2024, and prosecutors charged him with possession of “risk drugs” for personal use. Investigators said he possessed more than 18 grams of cannabis and consumed some in front of the audience. Khalifa, who was sentenced in absentia, was performing in California earlier this week and shared clips from home on social media. He apologised for offending Romania and said he would avoid using cannabis on stage in future. Romanian criminologist Vlad Zaha told UNB that extradition from the US is unlikely, calling the sentence “unusually harsh” given Khalifa’s wealth and the legal status of cannabis in the United States. The rapper, known for hits like Black and Yellow and See You Again, also runs a marijuana brand launched in 2016. While cannabis is legal in some US states, it remains illegal under federal law.   With inputs from BBC

Families of Ukrainian soldiers who died by suicide during the war face stigma and lack of recognition, raising concerns about the mental health of troops on the front lines. Kateryna, mother of 25-year-old Orest, said her son died in Donetsk in 2023 from a “self-inflicted wound,” according to official reports. She doubts the claim and said the army had deemed him fit for service despite poor eyesight. Orest was sent to the front as a communications specialist and became increasingly withdrawn before his death. Ukraine officially mourns more than 45,000 soldiers killed since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, but there is no formal record of suicide among soldiers. Officials call such deaths isolated, yet families and human rights groups believe the numbers could be in the hundreds. Many families say soldiers who die by suicide are denied military honors, compensation, or public recognition. Kateryna said, “Some died the right way, and others died the wrong way. The state took my son, sent him to war, and brought me back a body in a bag.” Mariyana, whose husband Anatoliy died by suicide after being wounded at Bakhmut, said officials refused him a military burial. She described feeling abandoned by the state and criticized the stigma from others in the community. Viktoria from Lviv also lost her husband Andriy, a reconnaissance unit driver, to suicide in 2023. She said official investigations were inconsistent, and she continues to fight for the truth about his death. Oksana Borkun, who runs a support group for widows of soldiers who died by suicide, said about 200 families are part of the network. She and military chaplain Father Borys Kutovyi argue that these soldiers should be recognized as heroes, noting the psychological vulnerability of many recruited troops. Ukraine’s Commissioner for Veterans’ Rights, Olha Reshetylova, said she receives reports of up to four military suicides each month. She acknowledged the system needs reform and urged the government to provide truth and recognition to bereaved families. The ongoing crisis highlights the hidden mental health toll of war and the need for broader support for soldiers and their families.   With inputs from BBC

An unruly mob, incited by ex-journalist Elias Hossain, attacked and set fire to the office building of The Daily Star, Bangladesh’s leading English-language daily, early Friday, creating panic in the area following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a frontliner of the July Uprising. Soon after news broke that Hadi, spokesman of Inquilab Moncho, had died from gunshot wounds sustained on December 12, Elias Hossain — who commands a large following on social media — posted on Facebook instructing his followers to set fire to the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. Prothom Alo was attacked first, and Hossain later posted again urging supporters to target The Daily Star, after which the mob moved to its office and carried out the arson. According to the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters, duty officer Md Shahjahan said they received information about the fire at around 12:40am, following which a fire service unit was dispatched to the scene. Members of law-enforcement agencies, particularly personnel of the Bangladesh Army, reached the spot soon after the attack and took position to restore order. Firefighters began operations to douse the flames upon arrival. During the incident, the disorderly crowd also set fire to the adjacent road, further worsening the situation. Army personnel later assisted the fire service in bringing the fires under control.

European Union leaders have agreed to provide Ukraine with a €90 billion (£79 billion; $105 billion) loan, while failing to reach a decision on using frozen Russian assets worth €210 billion. The deal comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin told the BBC that Western leaders are “making Russia the enemy.” He made the comments during his year-end press conference. Most of Moscow’s frozen assets are held in Belgium, which has refused to release the money without guarantees it would be protected if Russia takes legal action. The EU loan covers about two-thirds of the €135 billion Kyiv is estimated to need over the next two years. During his annual news conference, Putin blamed Ukraine for starting the war and claimed Kyiv refuses to resolve the conflict peacefully. He also defended Russia’s political system and criticized “fake news” in the West. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Warsaw on Thursday and met Polish President Karol Nawrocki. He said the trip marked a “new and meaningful stage” in relations between the countries and highlighted the importance of cooperation to defend freedom in Europe. Meanwhile, the UK’s Chief of Defence Staff, Sir Richard Knighton, said Russian claims of rapid advances in eastern Ukraine are “nonsense.” He added that Ukrainian forces continue to fight hard and inflict heavy losses on Russian troops. The EU loan has drawn mixed reactions in Ukraine. Some citizens welcomed the financial support, while others expressed concern about corruption and doubts that the funds would reach the military or civilians. Kyiv’s Security Service also claimed its forces struck a Russian “shadow fleet” tanker in the Mediterranean Sea using a drone, targeting vessels used to bypass Western sanctions on Russian oil. Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic are exempt from paying for the EU loan. Their leaders said their countries would not bear the cost of financing Ukraine’s war.   With inputs from BBC

Overseas Correspondents Association Bangladesh (OCAB), a platform representing international media based in Dhaka, on Friday strongly condemned the violent attacks against journalists, editors, and media outlets carried out on Thursday night. Such brazen violence is intolerable and a direct threat to journalism as it strikes at the pillars of a free press and an informed citizenry, OCAB said in a statement. The platform demanded that authorities take concrete steps to ensure the safety of media professionals and launch a credible investigation without any delay to bring the culprits to justice. "The ability of journalists to work without fear and intimidation by both state and non-state elements is non-negotiable. Their protection is a prerequisite for upholding democratic values and the rule of law in the country," the statement reads. OCAB President Nazrul Islam and General Secretary Julhas Alam issued the statement.

Violent protests broke out in Habiganj on Friday over the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, convener of Inquilab Moncho, with demonstrators blocking roads, staging rallies and attacking an Awami League office and a local newspaper office. The protesters demanded the arrest of those involved in the killing and the resignation of the home adviser.Panic spread across the town as the protests escalated. After Jumma prayers, the Anti Discrimination students group announced a blockade and effigy burning programme at the Court Mosque area.Protesters blocked the main road in front of the mosque and burned an effigy of the home adviser. They later brought out a large protest march. When the march reached the Chiriakandi area, protesters attacked and vandalised the office of the local daily Amar Habiganj, owned by Awami League leader and blogger Sushanta Das Gupta. Some locally made weapons were found at the office and later handed over to police.The newspaper has remained closed for the past month on the order of the district magistrate, as its editor Sushanta Das Gupta has been staying in London for a long time without following due procedures.Protesters alleged that from the time Hadi was shot until his death, Sushanta Das Gupta had been posting obscene and abusive comments about Hadi on Facebook. On the way back, the protesters attacked the already damaged Habiganj district Awami League office. and set fire to a mural of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The protesters then gathered in front of the residence of the Habiganj superintendent of police and continued their demonstration. They demanded quick arrests and security for protest leaders and July fighters. nThe programme was withdrawn after the police superintendent assured action and security. Hadi’s namaz-e-janaza at 2:30pm Saturday Student leader Ashraful Islam Sujon said, “Hadi was shot dead in a most brutal manner. Even seven days after the incident, no accused has been arrested. We are giving the administration a 24 hour ultimatum. If the suspects are not arrested within this time, we will shut down the country.” Another student leader Mahdi Hasan said, “If the accused are not brought back from India quickly and given the highest punishment, we will demand the severing of diplomatic relations with them.” Regarding the matter, Dolowar Hossain, Officer in Charge of Habiganj Sadar Model Police Station said, “The situation is currently calm.”    

The three-day housing fair organised by real estate company JCX Developments Limited began in the capital on Thursday, offering discounts and facilities for buyers. JCX Developments Limited Managing Director Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury and the company’s brand ambassador, popular actress Bidya Sinha Mim inaugurated the fair at the JCX Business Tower on Japan Street in Block I of Bashundhara Residential Area. Among others present at the inauguration were JCX Developments Limited CEO Siddiquar Rahman, Operations Director Asif Mahmud Chowdhury, Director Mirza Golam Rahman Shubho, COO Col (retd) ABM Mizanur Rahman, Executive Director Col (retd) Md Ariful Haque, and Star Connector COO Neel Hurer Jahan. JCX is offering customers discounts of up to Tk 10 lakh on flat bookings during the fair. Buyers will also enjoy a range of complimentary benefits, including a 100 percent discount on interior design services, free kitchen cabinets, and home movers’ services. The fair will remain open to visitors every day from 10am to 7pm and will continue until December 20. Speaking on the occasion, Iqbal Hossain said JCX currently has multiple ongoing projects in Bashundhara, Jolshiri and Niketan areas. Customers booking flats in these projects will receive a cash discount of up to Tk 10 lakh along with shopping vouchers from JCX Gold. Bidya Sinha described JCX Developments as a symbol of trust, saying she has been living in a JCX apartment for more than a decade. “I can confidently say that buyers will benefit by purchasing flats from JCX,” she added. At the event, it was also disclosed that under JCX Developments’ 65 ongoing residential projects, buyers will have the opportunity to choose their preferred flat or office space from more than 5.081 million square feet of space. In addition, construction is underway on JCX Grand Residences, a luxury condominium project being developed on 92 kathas of land in Bashundhara Residential Area. A commercial building named Icon Hundred is also being built on two bighas of land, with 50 percent of the total area kept as open space. Iqbal Hossain also said that JCX ensures visually appealing designs and international-standard, earthquake-resistant housing by combining Japanese and local top engineers. He added that all JCX projects are handed over to customers within the scheduled timeframe.

Following the death of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, journalists of the country’s leading vernacular daily Prothom Alo have demanded the identification, arrest and exemplary punishment of those involved in the attack on the newspaper’s office at Karwan Bazar in the capital late Thursday night. The demand was made from a human chain formed in front of the organisation’s office on Friday afternoon in protest against the attack carried out on Thursday night. Speaking on behalf of the institution, poet and writer Sajjad Sharif,  who is also the paper's executive editor, said: “We demand justice for this incident and we protest against it. There must be a proper investigation. Those involved must be identified and given exemplary punishment.” He further said that an attack was carried out on the Prothom Alo office late Thursday night, at a time when the newspaper’s journalists were working at night to prepare the next day’s edition. Sazzad Sharif further said, “A vested interest group carried out the attack in a planned manner, centring on the death of Sharif Osman Hadi. Our journalists were at risk of their lives. They were forced to leave their work and go away without publishing the newspaper.” Prof Yunus talks to Prothom Alo, Daily Star editors He also said that for the first time in 27 years, the newspaper could not be published, and its online platform has also remained shut since last night. “This is a severe attack on freedom of speech, freedom of expression and the freedom of the media in Bangladesh,” he added. At the same time, not only Prothom Alo but also The Daily Star has been attacked, he said. “We want to state clearly that this is a black day for the media and for freedom of speech.”  

BNP on Friday paid tributes to Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi as his body arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport from Singapore in the evening. On behalf of the party, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed and Acting Chairman’s adviser Dr Mahdi Amin paid the tributes to Hadi by placing a wreath on his coffin at the airport, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. Earlier, the duo along with some interim government advisers and senior leader from different parties received the mortal remains of Hadi, who passed away in a Singapore hospital on Thursday. The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG-585 carrying Hadi’s body landed at 5:48 pm, having departed from Singapore’s Changi International Airport at 2:03 pm, Bangladesh time. Hadi, a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election from the Dhaka-8 constituency, was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan, Dhaka. He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he passed away on Thursday night.

More than 450,000 expatriate Bangladeshi voters from different countries across the world registered through a mobile app, ‘Postal Vote Bd’, in the last one month to vote in the upcoming national election and the referendum, scheduled to be held simultaneously on February 12, 2026. The Election Commission (EC) on November 19 opened the ‘Postal Vote Bd’ app for the expatriates to complete the registration process by December 25 next. Though the postal balloting system has been in the laws for a long time, it was never practiced in the previous elections. This is the first time the Election Commission has introduced an effective IT-supported hybrid postal balloting system, enabling expatriates, government staff who are posted outside their respective constituencies, polling personnel, and the persons who will be in the legal custody to exercise their franchise through a combination of digital registration and manual voting. Alongside the expatriates, more than 61,000 voters from inside Bangladesh have also registered to vote through the postal ballots in the 13th parliamentary election. As of 6:30 pm on Friday, a total of 450,226 expatriates, including 28,765 females, registered through the app from 122 foreign countries throughout the world. Among the registrants, the highest number came from the Saudi Arabia (127,844) followed by Qatar (47,263),Oman (34,439), Malaysia (33,379), UAE (26,123), USA (23,389), UK (17,835), Kuwait (17,813), Singapore (16,980), Italy (13,269), Canada (10,939), South Korea (9,912), Australia (8,778), Bahrain (7,611), Japan (7,308), Maldives (6,294), South Africa (5,081) and Portugal (5,033). The registration process for In-Country Postal Voting (ICPV) started after the recent announcement of the election schedule. As of Friday evening, 61,511 voters from inside Bangladesh registered to vote through the postal ballots. With them, a total of 511,737 persons registered through the ‘Postal Vote Bd' app. Among the registered ones, the highest 53,308 will vote in Cumilla district, while 45,532 in Dhaka district, 44,271 in Chattogram, 30,859 in Noakhali, 22,389 in Sylhet, 20,652 in Chandpur, 19,673 in Feni, 17,185 in Brahmanbaria, 16,300 in Lakshmipur and 12,258 in Cox’s Bazar. In terms of parliamentary seats, the highest 8,269 registered ones will vote in Feni-3 constituency, while 7,670 in Chattogram-15 constituency, 7,411 in Noakhali-1 constituency, 7,157 in Cumilla-10 constituency, 6,869 in Noakhali-3 constituency. ‘In-Country Postal Vote’ registration to continue till Dec 25: EC There are some 12.76 crore voters under 42,761 polling stations in the country's 300 constituencies. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on December 11 last announced the schedule to arrange the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order simultaneously on February 12 next. According to the election schedule, the deadline for the submission of nomination paper is December 29, while the last date for the withdrawal of candidature is January 20. The election campaign will start on January 22 and continue till 48 hours before the balloting period (7:30am on February 10).    

The namaz-e-janaza of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi will be held at 2:30pm on Saturday at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Friday night. The government requested those wishing to attend the janaza not to carry any bags or heavy objects. It also said that flying drones in and around the parliament complex will remain completely restricted during the funeral prayers. Meanwhile, a decision has been taken to bury Hadi beside national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on the Dhaka University campus, in line with the wishes of his family, said a separate Facebook post from Inquilab Moncho’s official page. Earlier, the body of Hadi, who died at a hospital in Singapore on Thursday, arrived in Dhaka on Friday evening. A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight (BG-585) carrying his body landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 5:48pm, officials said. They said the flight had departed Singapore’s Changi International Airport at 2:03pm (Bangladesh time). Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of December 18.

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s physical condition became more stable on Friday after a small medical procedure was successfully carried out on her, said her personal physician Dr AZM Zahid Hossain. “Alhamdulillah. As I told you yesterday (Thursday), by the mercy of Allah and everyone’s prayers, her condition was stable. I would like to add that compared to her previous condition, she is now much more stable following the treatment of the medical board,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while briefing reporters about Khaleda’s health condition outside Evercare Hospital. Dr Zahid said a small medical procedure was carried out on the former prime minister on Friday in the operation theatre of the hospital. “She was able to receive it very successfully. The procedure went smoothly.” He said Khaleda is now receiving treatment at a Critical Care Unit cabin that has ICU facilities, under a medical board made up of specialist doctors from home and abroad. “At this moment, her condition is stable. This means her condition has not deteriorated,” the BNP leader said. Khaleda Zia integral to an important chapter in Bangladesh history: Prof Yunus Dr Zahid said BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and the wife of late Arafat Rahman Koko Syeda Shameela Rahman and other family members urged the country’s people to pray to Allah so that Khaleda continues to remain stable and moves towards full recovery with the treatment being provided by the medical board. The BNP chief was admitted to Evercare Hospital on 23 November with several health complications. Three days later, she was moved to the Critical Care Unit after a lung infection was detected. Her treatment is now being supervised by a medical board led by Professor Shahabuddin Talukder, with the involvement of both local and foreign specialists.    

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Thursday urged patience, responsibility and national unity following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho and a July Movement activist, who died on Wednesday while receiving treatment in Singapore. In a statement, Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman said the nation is mourning Hadi’s death amid public anger over the failure to ensure his safety. He said while grief and anger among students and the public are understandable, no group should exploit the situation for political gain, warning that such actions could derail the movement from its proper course. Osman Hadi no more Dr Rahman underscored the need for safeguarding media freedom, describing attacks on journalists as attacks on democracy and the rule of law, and stressed that protests must remain peaceful and lawful. He also demanded quick identification and exemplary punishment of those responsible for Hadi’s killing, urging citizens and students to act with restraint and responsibility, adding that national unity and democratic processes are the only way forward during this critical period.

Thousands of students and people are still holding a sit-in at busy Shahbag intersection, demanding justice for the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho and a pioneering leader of last year’s July uprising. Following the news of Hadi’s death on Thursday night, students began gathering at Shahbag from around 10:30pm and continued their demonstration since then.  Vehicular movement in the surrounding areas remained suspended. Earlier, late Thursday, Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Shadik Kayem announced an 'anti-hegemonic rally', in which thousands participated on Friday at 3pm. Prior to that, special prayers were offered for Hadi after the Jumm'a prayers at the Dhaka University Central Mosque. On the ground, students from schools, colleges, madrasas, and universities, along with people from various walks of life, were seen chanting slogans at the Shahbag demanding justice for Hadi’s murder. Meanwhile, a post from the official Facebook page of Inquilab Moncho stated that the aircraft carrying 'martyr Osman Hadi' is scheduled to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at around 6pm. The post called upon people to stand in an orderly manner on both sides of the road from the airport to Shahbag to receive 'the fearless hero who dedicated his life to the spirit of July and the protection of independence and sovereignty'. Osman Hadi's body arrives in Dhaka From there, it said, the body of Shaheed Hadi will be taken to the Dhaka University Central Mosque for the public to pay their last respects. Fatima Tasnim Zuma, one of the organisers of the platform, said, “Martyr Osman Hadi will be brought to the Dhaka University Central Mosque. The students will continue to occupy the streets and keep raising slogans demanding justice.” “Do not follow any instructions from anyone other than Inquilab Moncho and any provocation. We will soon announce tougher programmes. We will not return home until justice for our martyred brother is ensured, Insha’Allah," she added.   

An aircraft carrying the body of Inquilab Moncho spokesman Sharim Osman Hadi, who died at a Singapore Hospital on Thursday, landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Friday evening.   The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG-585 carrying the body landed at the airport at 5:48 pm on Friday, officials said. They said the flight had departed from Singapore’s Changi International Airport at 2:03 pm, Bangladesh time. Meanwhile, security measures have been tightened at the airport to avoid any unwanted incident. Religious Affairs Ministry calls for special prayers for Hadi According to a post on Inquilab Moncho’s official Facebook page, the body is now being taken to the cold storage of the National Institute of CardioVascular Diseases (NICVD) to preserve it.   On Saturday, the body will be taken to Manik Mia Avenue where his namaz-e-Janaza will be held followed by Zuhr prayer, according to the post.   Later, the body will be transported to the central mosque of Dhaka University and will be laid to rest beside National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, as demanded by his family, the post reads. The organisation urged supporters to pay tributes to the ‘fearless hero who sacrificed his life to protect justice, freedom and sovereignty’ by maintaining disciplined positions along both sides of the road from the airport to Shahbagh. On December 12, Hadi was shot in the head while moving in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. He underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore where he passed away on the night of December 18.

The Media Freedom Coalition in Bangladesh on Friday strongly condemned the attacks carried out Thursday night against journalists, editors, and media houses. "Such acts of violence and intimidation are unacceptable and strike at the heart of press freedom and the public's right to be informed," said the MFC in a statement. The MFC called for the safety of all media professionals to be ensured and for swift, impartial investigations so that those responsible are held to account. "Journalists must be able to carry out their work without fear," it said. The MFC said protecting them is essential to upholding the rule of law, democratic values, and an open, informed society. DCAB strongly condemns attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, harassment of Nurul Kabir Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Dhaka joined the people of Bangladesh in mourning the loss of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi and offered their deepest condolences to his family, friends and supporters. Besides, the High Commission of Canada in Dhaka said it stands with its Media Freedom Coalition partners in condemning attacks on media professionals in Bangladesh.  "The safety of media professionals is essential to democracy," said the High Commission.    

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday accused neighboring India of “weaponizing water” by releasing water from Indian dams without prior notice, claiming the move violates the World Bank-brokered Indus Water Treaty and threatens peace and stability in the region. Dar’s remarks followed Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry writing to New Delhi seeking clarification over irregular releases from the Chenab River. He alleged that India was manipulating water flows during a critical stage of Pakistan’s agricultural cycle, endangering livelihoods as well as the country’s food and economic security. “Such illegal and irresponsible conduct has the potential to trigger a humanitarian crisis in Pakistan,” Dar said, noting that similar actions in September worsened flooding that devastated hundreds of villages. There was no immediate comment from New Delhi. The Indus Water Treaty, signed in 1960 and overseen by the World Bank, allocates the eastern rivers Ravi, Sutlej, and Beas to India, and the western rivers Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus to Pakistan. Despite wars and border skirmishes, the treaty has generally survived. Dar said Pakistan has informed U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres and the president of the U.N. General Assembly, urging their intervention. He stressed that any attempt to divert or stop the flow of water to Pakistan would be considered an “act of war.” Source: AP 

President Donald Trump’s blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers off the country’s coast is raising new concerns about the legality of U.S. military operations in Latin America and fears that the United States could be edging closer to war. The administration insists the measure targets only sanctioned vessels and not civilians, but legal experts warn that such actions without congressional approval may breach international law and risk provoking a Venezuelan military response. “The concern is that we are bootstrapping our way into armed conflict,” said Claire Finkelstein, a national security law professor at the University of Pennsylvania. Trump’s campaign against Venezuela is part of a broader effort to pressure President Nicolás Maduro, accused of narcoterrorism and using oil revenue to fund drug trafficking. U.S. forces have attacked 28 suspected drug-smuggling boats since September, killing over 100 people, and the president has threatened land strikes. Venezuelan authorities condemned the blockade. Maduro’s son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, called for dialogue while warning of the threat posed by the world’s most powerful military. The Pentagon prefers to describe the operation as a “quarantine” rather than a blockade, noting that an international law blockade constitutes an act of war. Critics argue the selective targeting of oil shipments resembles a wartime maneuver without formal authorization, leaving questions about the legal and strategic implications of Trump’s campaign. Source: AP 

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday expressed confidence that Moscow’s military objectives in Ukraine would be achieved, nearly four years after he ordered troops into the neighbouring country. Speaking at his annual year-end news conference, Putin said Russian forces were advancing along the front line, with progress varying across sectors. “Our troops are advancing all across the line of contact, faster in some areas or slower in others, but the enemy is retreating in all sectors,” he said, asserting that Moscow has “fully seized strategic initiative” and will make further gains by year-end. Putin reaffirmed that Russia is open to a peaceful settlement addressing what he called the “root causes” of the conflict, though his conditions include recognition of Russian control over territories captured in four eastern regions, the Crimean Peninsula, and parts of eastern Ukraine still under Kyiv’s control — demands rejected by Ukraine. He also reiterated that Ukraine must abandon its NATO ambitions, limit the size of its army, and grant official status to the Russian language. Putin warned that any NATO troop deployment in Ukraine would be considered a “legitimate target.” Observers noted the conference was closely watched for remarks on Ukraine and the peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Putin used the event, a mix of news briefing and nationwide call-in show, to consolidate domestic support and outline Russia’s positions on global and regional issues. Source: AP 

Students and general people blocked Dhaka-Barishal highway for several hours demanding arrest of killers of Inquilab Moncho spokesman Osman Hadi on Friday afternoon. The disruption caused immense suffering of commuters and transport workers.   The protesters gathered at Nathullabad Bus Terminal around noon and began a sit-in on the highway. Hundreds of demonstrators offered prayers on the street and later marched to Ashwini Kumar Town Hall area on Sadar Road where another protest rally was held. Calling the killers ‘fascist Awami League,’ the protesters threatened that they would launch tougher movement if the killers were not arrested immediately. After the programme, the protesters withdrew from the road and ended the blockade. ‘Long March to Border’ for Hadi held at Benapole Hadi, who wished for contesting the upcoming national election from Dhaka-8 seat as an independent candidate, was shot by miscreants, suspected to be followers of the ousted Awami League, on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan of Dhaka on December 12, breathed his last while undergoing treatment at a Singapore Hospital on Thursday. As the news of death spread, people, particularly students, burst into protest across the country and carried out vandalism.     

On the first full day since reopening following a mass shooting that killed 15 people at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, thousands of Australians gathered Friday at the iconic waterfront to mourn, reflect, and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community. In a spontaneously organized event, people lined the crescent of sand shoulder to shoulder and formed a massive circle in the ocean, observing a minute of silence for the victims, the injured, and those who risked their lives to save others. Many embraced and wept near the remnants of crime scene tape and abandoned shoes. Police reopened parts of the beach Thursday, and armed officers stood guard outside synagogues and mosques amid concerns over antisemitism and potential backlash against Muslims. Life slowly returned to the sand and boardwalk, with joggers, dog walkers, and coffee drinkers reclaiming the area. Stories of heroism resonated across the nation. Ahmed al Ahmed, an Australian Muslim store owner, disarmed one gunman before being shot by the other, calling for unity and human solidarity from his hospital bed. Residents also honored Reuven Morrison and Boris and Sofia Gurman, three Jewish victims who confronted the shooters. Nearly 35,000 blood donations have been made since Monday, demonstrating national resolve. Community leaders said the gatherings reflect Australians’ desire to connect and support one another while grappling with grief and outrage. Bondi Beach lifeguards are set to return Saturday, restoring another symbol of normalcy to the shore. Source: AP 

Canada and the United States are set to begin formal talks to review their free trade agreement in mid-January, according to the office of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Carney informed provincial leaders that Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s lead official on U.S. trade relations, “will meet with U.S. counterparts in mid-January to initiate formal discussions,” the Prime Minister’s office said Thursday. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), negotiated by U.S. President Donald Trump during his first term, is scheduled for review in 2026, under a clause allowing potential renegotiation. Canada, heavily reliant on trade, exports more than 75% of its goods to the United States, although many exports currently benefit from USMCA exemptions. Tensions in trade talks arose in October after Ontario ran an anti-tariff ad in the U.S., prompting Trump to suspend certain discussions. Carney said Canada and the U.S. were close to agreeing on sectoral tariff relief covering steel, aluminum, autos, and lumber. He noted that U.S. concerns over Canadian dairy, alcohol, and digital services will be part of broader continental trade discussions. The Prime Minister and provincial leaders plan to meet in Ottawa early next year to further address trade issues. Source: AP 

Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) on Friday expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the violent attacks, vandalism and arson at the offices of daily Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, as well as the harassment of the President of the Editors’ Council and Editor of New Age, veteran journalist Nurul Kabir. In a statement, DCAB said it believes that independent and responsible journalism is one of the main foundations of a democratic state. "Violence, intimidation, attacks, or harassment aimed at silencing the media are in no way acceptable. Such actions are completely contrary to media freedom, the constitutional right to freedom of expression, and the rule of law," said the statement. The harassment of veteran journalist and editor Nurul Kabir, in particular, is a matter of grave concern, DCAB said, noting that this incident is not only an attack on professional dignity but also raises serious questions about the personal safety of journalists. DCAB strongly demanded that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice through a fair, impartial and speedy investigation into these incidents. At the same time, DCAB expects effective and visible measures from the government and the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of media professionals. Besides, DCAB expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the arrest of its former president Anis Alamgir and expressed solidarity with the statements issued by the Editors’ Council and other organisations regarding his arrest. Prof Yunus talks to Prothom Alo, Daily Star editors DCAB also expressed solidarity with the national mourning, to be observed on Saturday, following the tragic death of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, who passed away on Thursday while undergoing treatment in Singapore after being shot and injured. DCAB President AKM Moinuddin and General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun jointly issued the statement.    

Students and general people staged a protest march titled ‘Long March to Border’ at the Benapole international checkpost zero point on Friday, demanding the arrest of the killers of Iquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. The protest procession began around 11am from Benapole municipal market area and ended at the Benapole checkpost zero point, where a brief rally was held. During the rally, protesters chanted slogans for Hadi and his platform, vowing to remain on the streets until the dreams of Hadi are fulfilled. The programme was led by former teacher Abdur Mannan, local convenor of the student movement. Speakers at the rally included Dhaka University student Mushfiqur Rahman Sakib, Benapole municipal unit Anti-Discrimination Student Movement convenor Asadullah Al Galib, member secretary Sajedur Rahman Shipu, Jashore district Islami Chhatra Shibir member Rezwan Rahman Akash, and Sharsha upazila Chhatra Shibir president Mehedi Hasan, among others. The speakers said Hadi had continued his struggle against the Awami League, hegemonic forces and what they termed Indian aggression, and vowed that the movement would continue until the goals are achieved.

BNP on Friday postponed two scheduled programmes of its Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, considering the overall situation in the country. The party has also called an emergency meeting of its Standing Committee tonight at 8:30pm at the BNP Chairperson’s political office in Gulshan, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. “The two pre-announced programmes have been postponed, and an emergency standing committee meeting has been called for tonight at 8:30pm,” he said. Sayrul said BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will join the meeting virtually and preside over it. He said the programme of Fakhrul, which was scheduled to be held at 3pm at Sech Bhaban in the Sangsad Bhaban area, has been postponed. Another programme of the party’s Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, planned for 4pm in front of the WASA Bhaban at Karwan Bazar, has also been postponed,” Sayrul added. BNP sources said the two programmes were postponed after Inquilab Moncho convener Sharif Osman bin Hadi, who was shot and injured earlier, died on Thursday in Singapore and violence broke out afterwards in Bangladesh. They also said the Standing Committee meeting has been convened to discuss the country’s latest political situation, organisational matters, and to work out the party’s next course of action.

The admission test for Dhaka University’s Science Unit (Ka Unit), scheduled to be held on Saturday has been postponed. Dhaka University authorities in a media release said the university will observe a day of mourning on Saturday as part of the state mourning following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho and a DU alumnus. “As a tribute to the brave July warrior Sharif Osman Hadi and all the July fighters and martyrs who took part in the July Mass Uprising, the admission test for the first-year undergraduate programme of the Science Unit for the 2025–2026 academic year, scheduled for December 20 (Saturday), has been postponed,” the statement said. A new date for the postponed admission test will be announced soon, it added.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has spoken over phone with the editors of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star following attacks on the two media outlets on Thursday night. In separate conversations with Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman and The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, Prof Yunus expressed deep sympathy, saying the unexpected and reprehensible attacks on the institutions and their journalists had deeply saddened him. He said the government stood firmly beside the two media houses during this difficult time. Resist all forms of mob violence committed by fringe elements: Govt urges all Describing the incidents as assaults on press freedom, the chief adviser warned that such actions posed a serious threat to independent journalism and Bangladesh’s democratic progress. Prof Yunus assured the editors of full security and all necessary government support, adding that he hoped to meet them in person soon.

Miscreants carried out an attack and vandalised the Prothom Alo office in Kushtia town early Friday. The incident took place around 1:30am at the newspaper’s office located at Majampur Gate, where an agitated mob damaged the office signboard, doors and windows of a room, along with various pieces of furniture. Following the incident, police intensified patrolling across the district to maintain law and order. According to witnesses, agitated students and local residents brought out protest processions in Kushtia following the death of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi in Singapore on Thursday night. Later, the protesters blocked the Dhaka-Kushtia Highway by setting tyres on fire. Normal traffic resumed around midnight after the hour-long blockade was withdrawn. Around 1:30am, a group of people suddenly carried out attacks and vandalism at the newspaper office and at the residences of several Awami League leaders in different parts of the town. Officer-in-charge of Kushtia Model Police Station Kabir Hossain Matubbar said police have heard about the incidents but have not yet received any written complaint. Police are on alert to prevent any further disorder, he added.

The government on Friday urged all the people of Bangladesh to resist mob violence in its all forms committed by a 'few fringe elements'. "We strongly and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence, intimidation, arson, and destruction of properties," said the interim government in a statement. The government said this is a critical moment in nation’s history when they are making a historic democratic transition. At this critical hour, the government called upon every citizen to honour Shaheed Hadi by rejecting and resisting violence, incitement and hatred. "We cannot and must not allow it to be derailed by those few who thrive on chaos and reject peace," the statement reads. The upcoming elections and referendum are not merely political exercises, the government said. "They are a solemn national commitment. This promise is inseparable from the dream for which Saheed Sharif Osman Hadi gave his life. Honouring his sacrifice and memory demands restraint, responsibility, and abiding commitment to reject hatred," the statement says. Fakhrul condemns attacks on media, calls for unity, justice "To the journalists of The Daily Star, Prothom Alo and New Age: we stand with you. We are deeply sorry for the terror and violence you have endured. The nation has witnessed your courage and tolerance in the face of terror. Attacks on journalists are attacks on truth itself. We promise you full justice," the government said. The government said they wholeheartedly condemn the lynching of a Hindu man in Mymensingh. "There is no space for such violence in new Bangladesh. The perpetrators of this heinous crime will not be spared," it said.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has urged people and religious institutions across the country to offer special prayers and duas on Friday for the repose of the soul of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. In a press release issued at midnight on Thursday, the Ministry said the government has decided to organize prayers in all mosques after Jumma prayers and corresponding prayers in other religious places of worship according to their respective faiths to seek blessings for the soul of martyr Sharif Osman bin Hadi, a courageous fighter at the forefront of the July Uprising. The Ministry requested that special prayers be arranged in every mosque and in temples, churches, and pagodas at appropriate times. It has instructed the Director General of the Islamic Foundation, as well as the secretaries of the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust, Buddhist Religious Welfare Trust, and Christian Religious Welfare Trust, to take the necessary measures to implement this directive. Hadi’s body,  who died at a Singapore hospital on Thursday a week after a gun attack on him, will be brought back to Bangladesh on Friday. His body is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka around 6:05pm, according to Inqilab Moncho. Hadi’s namaz-e-janaza will take place on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, the platform said.

The tragic demise of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a frontline activist of the July Uprising and spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho, is an irreparable loss to the country and its people, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said on Friday. In a condolence message, Rizwana, also Adviser to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting expressed deep sorrow over Hadi’s untimely death. She described Hadi as a fearless voice and a courageous organiser of the July Uprising, saying his uncompromising stand against injustice and oppression inspired democracy-loving people. “The firmness, clarity and sense of responsibility with which he conveyed the movement’s message will be remembered in history. His role in awakening the youth and shaping public opinion on human rights and justice is undeniable,” she said, adding that Hadi’s life of struggle, ideals and courage would continue to inspire future generations to stand against injustice. The adviser prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and extended heartfelt condolences to Hadi’s bereaved family, fellow activists, colleagues and well-wishers. Hadi died at a hospital in Singapore on Thursday, a week after being critically injured in a gun attack. According to Inquilab Moncho, his body will be brought back to Bangladesh on Friday by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight scheduled to depart Singapore at 3:50 pm (local time) and arrive in Dhaka around 6:05 pm. His namaz-e-janaza will be held on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir’s verified Facebook account has been temporarily deactivated due to repeated hacking attempts. “Attempts were being made to hack the account since morning. That is why it has been kept deactivated for now,” said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. In the early morning, Fakhrul issued a statement on his verified Facebook account condemning the attacks on several media houses and the assault on New Age Editor Nurul Kabir. “While the grieving nation was praying for the (departed) soul of martyr Sharif Osman Hadi, shameful attacks were carried out on media organisations, including The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, as well as on respected journalist Nurul Kabir and several others,” he said in the post. Fakhrul also said those who wait for national crises to take advantage of them are enemies of the country. “They wait for moments of crisis. Today, they turned this tragic moment into an act of destruction. I strongly condemn this act of terror.” “We urge all parties to work together responsibly and in unity. The government must take action immediately,” he said. Soon after the post, attempts were reportedly made to break into his account, prompting its temporary deactivation.

Inquilab Moncho on Friday shared the coffin of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, spokesperson of the platform, who passed away while receiving treatment in Singapore on Thursday. Posting a photo of the coffin wrapped with the flag of Bangladesh on its official Facebook page, the platform quoted Hadi, "I haven't gotten so fat from eating haram (earned from illegal sources) that I need a special coffin! I will appear before my Allah in a very ordinary coffin with a smile of halal blood." Earlier, Inquilab Moncho said that a Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight is scheduled to depart Singapore at 3:50 pm (local time) and is expected to arrive in Dhaka at around 6:05 pm. His namaj-e-janaza (funeral prayer) will be held on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, the platform added. Hadi, a fiery face of the July Uprising and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, passed away at 9:45 pm (BST) on Thursday at Singapore General Hospital. He was critically injured on December 12 when assailants opened fire on him while he was travelling in a rickshaw near the water tank in Bijoynagar, Dhaka. Two individuals on a motorcycle approached his rickshaw, and one of them shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.  

Travis Head scored an unbeaten half-century to guide Australia to 119 for two in its second innings Friday, a lead of 204 at tea on Day 3 of the third Ashes cricket test against England. The Australians went in to bat after dismissing England for 286 just before lunch on Day 3. Ben Stokes inspired a revival in England’s Ashes campaign in the morning session with a record 106-run ninth-wicket stand alongside Jofra Archer. Their partnership helped cut Australia’s first-innings lead to 85. Stokes walked off the field yelling at himself and shaking his head after being bowled for 83 by Mitchell Starc, bringing an end to a defiant, 198-ball innings that dragged his team back ino the contest. Australia lost the wicket of Jake Weatherald, adjudged lbw to Brydon Carse in a decision he should have reviewed, to reach lunch on Day 3 at 17-1. Manus Labuschagne (13), well caught at ground level by Harry Brook in the slips off Josh Tongue's bowling, was the only wicket to fall in the middle session when Australia added 102 runs. Head scored 68 from 94 delivieres, including six boundaries and a six, and shared an unbroken 66-run stand with Usman Khawaja (27 not out). England's revivalAfter losing the first two tests in Perth and Brisbane by eight wickets and allowing Australia to post 371 in the first innings here, England's chances of keeping the series alive seemed remote when Stokes went to the crease on Day 2 with the total at 71-4. But he batted for almost two full sessions in the heat and was 45 not out from 151 deliveries by stumps Thursday, sharing a pivotal stand with No. 10 Archer after England was on the verge of collapsing at 168-8. He resumed Friday with England at 213 for eight, still 158 behind. Australia wanted to clean up the last two wickets quickly but Stokes and Archer, who took a five-wicket haul when England was bowling, dug in. Stokes stepped down the wicket to Scott Boland for a driven boundary to bring up the 50 partnership off 89 balls, then raised his half-century with a single off 159 deliveries. It was his slowest 50 in test cricket — his 37th — but vital for his team. Then the England pair started counterpunching against the old ball, with Archer lofting veteran spinner Nathan Lyon's half-volley for six over long-on. Stokes hits a perfect cover drive to the boundary off Boland in the 73rd over, trying to accumulate as many runs as possible before the new ball arrived. When it did, Archer was lucky to survive on 48 when Starc beat the edge and somehow missed the stumps. Archer took a single off Cummins to reach his first test half-century off 97 balls, bringing England's deficit under 100. But the innings ended relatively quickly after Starc bowled Stokes with a delivery from over the wicket that angled back. The Stokes-Archer partnership was the highest ever for the ninth wicket for England at Adelaide. England is capable of chasing a big target in the fourth innings, chasing 370-plus against India twice in the last three years, so Bazball won't be completely dispensed with despite Stokes' stoic first innings.  

A group of unruly people set fire to the building of cultural organisation Chhayanaut in the capital’s Dhanmondi area in the early hours of Friday as violence spread in the country  over the death of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. “The incident took place around 2:15am,” said Khaleda Yasmin, duty officer at the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters control room. She said two firefighting units rushed to the spot and doused the blaze around 3:50am.  No injuries were reported. Witnesses said a group of assailants wearing helmets and face coverings entered the building, damaged valuables and set fire to those both inside and outside the premises. Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a prominent figure of the July Uprising, convenor of Inqilab Moncho and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, passed away on Thursday at 9:45pm while receiving treatment at Singapore General Hospital. Hadi was critically injured on December 12 when assailants opened fire on him while he was traveling in a rickshaw near the water tank in Bijoynagar, Dhaka. Two individuals on a motorcycle approached his rickshaw, and one of them shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday strongly condemned the attacks on The Daily Star, Prothom Alo, New Age Editor Nurul Kabir and other media professionals, saying those who carried out such violence are “enemies of Bangladesh”. “While the grieving nation was praying for the soul of martyr Sharif Osman Hadi, shameful attacks were carried out on media organisations, including The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, as well as on respected journalist Nurul Kabir and several others,” he said In a Facebook post early Friday, Fakhrul said Bangladesh is a sovereign and independent country, and the government is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of every citizen. He said those who wait for national crises to take advantage of them are enemies of the country. “They wait for moments of crisis. Today, they turned this tragic moment into an act of destruction. I strongly condemn this act of terror!” The BNP leader also said Hadi was a candidate in the upcoming national election and had gone to people seeking votes. “The election will be held, and a democratic government elected by people will be formed in Bangladesh, InshaAllah.” He said the assailants of Hadi must be brought to justice and every act of mob violence must also be punished. Fakhrul said the country has witnessed various mob attacks for over a year, which have divided the nation. After the fall of the autocratic Awami League regime, he said, the first and foremost responsibility of the interim government is to unite the nation and build a democratic, stable and inclusive society. “We urge all parties to work together responsibly and in unity. The government must take action immediately,” he said.

Protesters demolished the Rajshahi Metropolitan Awami League office in the city using a bulldozer during protests on Thursday night over the death of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho. The protesters first gathered at Saheb Bazar Zero Point before marching to the Awami League office around 11:30pm under the banner ‘Students Against Hegemony’, witnesses said. They brought out a procession from Joha Chattar in front of Rajshahi University’s administrative building.  Leaders and activists of Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RUCSU), Islami Chhatra Shibir and general students participated in the march which paraded through the campus before reaching the city centre. From the rally, speakers demanded exemplary punishment for those responsible for Hadi’s killing and warned of evicting the Indian Assistant High Commission from Rajshahi. RUCSU Vice-President and Rajshahi University Islami Chhatra Shibir President Mostaqur Rahman Zahid reiterated the demand for justice for Hadi. During the demonstration, protesters chanted various slogans against the Awami League and India, witnesses said. Meanwhile, the body of Hadi, who died while undergoing treatment in Singapore, is expected to arrive in Dhaka around 6:05pm on Friday.

Inqilab Moncho on Friday urged people to refrain from any form of violence over the death of its spokesperson Sharif Osman Bin Hadi who died at a Singapore hospital on Thursday a week after a gun attack on him. In a Facebook post, the socio-cultural platform—formed in the wake of the July Revolution in 2024—called on people to hold protest marches in their respective areas demanding the arrest and trial of those responsible for the killing. The platform also sought prayers for the departed soul of Hadi, a prominent figure of the July Uprising, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. Meanwhile, Hadi’s body will be brought back to Bangladesh on Friday. A Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight is scheduled to depart Singapore at 3:50pm (local time) and arrive in Dhaka around 6:05pm, according to Inqilab Moncho. The first Namaz-e-Janaza will be held at Angullia Mosque in Singapore at 10:00am on Friday. In Bangladesh, his Janaza will take place on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, the platform said.

At least four people, including two police personnel, were injured in a clash between protesters and police outside the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chattogram following death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho. The protesters gathered outside the mission’s office in the city’s Khulshi area on Thursday night and pelted bricks and vandalised the office premises around 1:00am, said police. When police intervened, a chase and counter-chase ensued between law enforcers and the protesters, said Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz. The injured were admitted to Chittagong Medical College Hospital, he said. Police detained 12 people from the spot and they would be shown arrested under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the CMP Commissioner added. Meanwhile, a section of the protesters remained in front of Khulshi Police Station until late at night demanding the release of the detainees. Earlier, students and activists under the banner of Inqilab Moncho staged a protest rally at Soloshahar No. 2 Gate, demanding punishment for those involved in Hadi’s killing. Officer-in-Charge of Panchlaish Police Station Md Solaiman said around 200 protesters gathered in Soloshahar and No. 2 Gate areas to protest the killing of Osman Hadi. They later marched toward Mayor Goli and set a motorcycle on fire at the house of former education minister and Awami League leader Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Naufel, he said.

The body of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho, who died while undergoing treatment in Singapore, will be brought back to Bangladesh on Friday.  In a Facebook post on early Friday, Inqilab Moncho said a Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight is scheduled to depart at 3:50 pm (local time) and is expected to arrive in Dhaka at around 6:05 pm. The first Namaz-e-Janaza of Hadi will be held at Angullia Mosque in Singapore at 10:00 am on Friday. In Bangladesh, his Janaza will take place on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, Inqilab Moncho said. Hadi, the fiery face of the July Uprising and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, passed away on Thursday at 9:45 pm while receiving medical treatment at Singapore General Hospital. Expressing deep sorrow and grief at Hadi’s untimely death, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus said the loss is irreparable for the country’s political and democratic landscape.“I pray for the eternal peace of his soul and express my deepest condolences to his bereaved wife, family members, relatives and colleagues,” he added. He also called for calm, unity and steadfast progress towards establishing democracy, justice and the rights of the people, without falling into the trap of those seeking to destabilise the country. “This will be our true tribute to martyr Hadi,” he said in a televised address to the nation.Meanwhile, Political parties and leaders, including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami have expressed deep condolences over the death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi. Following his death, widespread outrage erupted across the country.  Protesters began gathering in Dhaka’s Shahbagh area on Thursday night after his death was announced. Hadi was critically injured on December 12 when assailants opened fire on him while he was traveling in a rickshaw near the water tank in Bijoynagar, Dhaka.  Two individuals on a motorcycle approached his rickshaw, and one of them shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.

Deep sorrow has descended on the hometown of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, convenor of Inqilab Moncho and prospective independent candidate for Dhaka-8, following news of his death. His ancestral house is in the Khasmahal area of Nalchhiti municipality in Jhalokathi. At the same time, protesters, including July Uprising veterans, National Coordination Party (NCP), and Gana Adhikar Parishad activists, staged a blockade on the Dhaka–Jhalokathi highway at College Mor, demanding the immediate arrest of Hadi’s killers. Upon hearing the news, Hadi’s relatives, neighbors, and well-wishers rushed to his home, filling the area with grief and wailing. Due to security concerns, the family did not meet anyone or speak to the media on Thursday night. Police said family contact was being limited considering the situation. Family members are expected to speak to relatives and locals on Friday morning. Local residents, classmates, and supporters expressed anger over Hadi’s killing and demanded that the perpetrators be swiftly identified, arrested, and punished. The blockade on the Dhaka–Jhalokathi highway, which started at 11:30 pm on Thursday, brought traffic to a standstill in both directions, affecting buses, trucks, and goods vehicles from Dhaka, Barishal, and Khulna. Passengers and commuters faced severe inconvenience during the night. Protesters said Hadi’s murder was premeditated, and despite the time elapsed since the incident, there has been no effective progress in apprehending the killers. They warned that the movement would continue until justice is served. NCP Jhalokathi district convenor Mainul Islam Manna said Hadi, a well-known revolutionary and patriotic figure after the July Uprising, had not received adequate security. He called the killing not merely a personal tragedy, but an attempt to silence a voice of ideals and protest. Osman Hadi was the son of the late Sharif Maulana Abdul Hadi of the Ferrighat area in Nalchhiti. His sister, Mashuma Sultana bin Hadi, and brother-in-law Amir Hossain are currently at the family home, joined by relatives offering support.

Locals on Friday blocked the Dhaka–Chittagong Highway at Shanirakhra, Jatrabari, demanding a swift trial in connection with Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi’s murder. Osman Hadi, who was critically injured in a gun attack in Dhaka last Friday, has died while undergoing treatment at Singapore General Hospital. The blockade began on Friday night after spreading the news of death The obstruction has completely halted traffic in Shanir Akhra and surrounding areas. The roadblock has caused severe traffic congestion on the highway, affecting long-distance vehicles and commuters alike. Rayhan Rafid who was one of them in the demonstration stated that the demonstration is aimed at securing a quick trial for Hadi, who was considered an icon for the youth. Hadi was a prominent social activist known for his work in community development and youth empowerment. His sudden death last month sparked outrage among students and young professionals across the country. Police have arrived at the scene and are negotiating with the demonstrators to restore normalcy. However, the blockade had not been lifted at the time of reporting. Dr Ahad, head of the National Citizen Party’s (NCP) health cell and Hadi’s physician, confirmed the news in a video message, saying: “We have received word from Singapore General Hospital that Hadi has passed away.” Earlier on Wednesday night, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan visited Hadi at the hospital. Osman Hadi, who was being considered as a potential Dhaka-8 candidate for the upcoming national election, was shot in the head on Friday, December 12, in the Purana Paltan area of the capital.

A house belonging to the brother of former Dhaka-18 lawmaker Habib Hasan was set on fire in Uttara early Friday, according to the Fire Service and Civil Defence. Duty officer Shahjahan at the Fire Service and Civil Defence headquarters control room said they received information about the fire at 12:15am at the residence of the former Awami League MP's brother in Uttara. Following the report, a firefighting unit was dispatched to the scene. However, the fire service vehicle was obstructed by a crowd on the way, he said. As of the last update, the fire service unit had not been able to reach the spot.

Gloom descended on the village home of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman bin Hadi in the Khasmahal area of Nalchity municipality in Jhalakathi as news of his death spread. Relatives and well-wishers rushed to the house upon hearing the news. However, due to security concerns, no family members spoke to visitors or the media on Thursday night. Police said the family would speak to others on Friday morning. Hadi’s neighbours and former classmates demanded the immediate arrest of those involved in his killing and called for the maximum punishment, including the death penalty. Many people broke down in tears while recalling memories of Hadi. Locals also raised questions about why adequate security was not provided to a heroic July Uprising figure like Hadi following the movement. At present, Hadi’s sister, Masuma Sultana bin Hadi, and his brother-in-law, Amir Hossain, are staying at the family home.

A house belonging to Awami league’s former education minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Naufel was set on fire in Chattogram on Thursday night amid protests over the killing of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Osman Hadi. The incident took place around 11:00 pm in the Chashmahill area of the city, where agitated protesters torched a motorcycle inside the house, which also belongs to former Chattogram mayor Mohiuddin Chowdhury. Earlier, students and activists under the banner of Inqilab Moncho staged a protest rally at Soloshahar No. 2 Gate, demanding punishment for those involved in Hadi’s killing. The protesters later marched toward Mayor Goli, where the arson incident occurred. Another group of protesters simultaneously held a demonstration and sit-in program in front of the Indian government mission office in the Khurshi area of the city. Confirming the incident, Officer-in-Charge of Panchlaish Police Station Md Solaiman said around 200 protesters gathered in the Soloshahar and No. 2 Gate areas to protest the killing of Inqilab Moncho leader Osman Hadi. “They later marched toward Mayor Goli and set a motorcycle on fire at the house of former education minister and Awami League leader Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Naufel. Police were present and attempted to bring the situation under control,” the OC said. No casualties were reported, and police said the situation was under control at the time of filing this report.

Protesters blocked the Dhaka-Barishal highway on Thursday night to demand justice for the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, convenor of Inqilab Moncho. The blockade took place at the Choumatha area from 10:30 pm to 11:45 pm, disrupting road communication between the capital Dhaka and the southern region, including tourist spots like Kuakata and the Payra port. Hundreds of vehicles were stranded on both sides of the highway during the protest. Demonstrators raised slogans demanding punishment for Hadi’s killers and opposing Indian imperialism. The protest ended after the blockade was lifted at 11:45 pm.Al Mamun Ul Islam, Officer-in-Charge of Barishal Kotwali Model Police Station, said the situation has now returned to normal as protesters dispersed from the highway.

Students and local residents held a protest march demanding justice for the death of Inqilab Moncho convenor Osman Hadi and the arrest of those responsible. The march began in the northern Temuhani area and proceeded through the main streets of the town, ending in southern Temuhani, on Thursday night. Protesters called for a fair investigation into Hadi’s death, swift apprehension of the culprits, and exemplary punishment. Participants raised various slogans condemning the incident.

A journalist was shot dead and another person injured when armed assailants opened fire at a tea stall in the Sholua Bazar area under Aranghata Police Station of Khulna city on Thursday night. The deceased was identified as Emdadul Haque Milon, 45, who worked for an online news portal and also served as general secretary of the Sholua Bazar Development Committee. The injured, Debashish Biswas, 30, is a local veterinary doctor. The incident occurred around 10:00 pm at a tea shop in the market. Milon was shot in the head and died on the spot, while Debashish sustained a gunshot wound to the head and was rushed to Khulna Medical College Hospital, where his condition was reported to be critical. Eyewitnesses said four assailants arrived at the tea stall on two motorcycles and fired several blank shots, causing panic among people in the area. As locals fled, two of the attackers entered the tea shop and shot Milon at point-blank range. They then shot Debashish before fleeing the scene. Milon is the son of Md Bazlur Rahman of Sholua Bazar, while Debashish is the son of Rabindranath Biswas of the same area. Khulna Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner (Media) TMR Roknuzzaman confirmed that two people were shot in the incident, one of whom died, while the other remains under treatment. Additional Deputy Commissioner (North) of Khulna Metropolitan Police Amit Kumar Barman said police were investigating the motive behind the killing. “We have learned that Milon was a journalist and a local organization leader. The cause of the attack is yet to be determined,” he said. Police said efforts are underway to identify and arrest those responsible.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday expressed deep shock at the death of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, calling him a brave political activist and a clear, fearless voice against injustice. In a condolence message posted on his verified Facebook page, he said, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic killing of Sharif Osman Hadi. May Allah grant his soul forgiveness and place him in Jannat.” The BNP leader also said this untimely death is a grave reminder of the human cost of political violence. “Hadi was a brave political activist and a clear, fearless voice who always stood up against injustice,” he said. After the July mass uprising, Tarique said, as the spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho, he played an incredible role in defending the rights of the July fighters, upholding democratic values, and protecting national interests. “I express my deepest condolences to the grieving family, loved ones, and fellow activists.” He also call upon the interim government to conduct quick investigation, with the utmost priority, so that perpetrators are apprehended, punished and justice is served. “Together, we must safeguard every citizen and prevent any such incident aiming to destabilise Bangladesh and undermine our democratic aspirations,” Tarique said. Sharif Osman Hadi emerged as a key figure during the July Uprising and served as the convenor of Inqilab Moncho. He was also preparing to contest the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. On 12 December, he was shot at close range while travelling in a rickshaw in Bijoynagar, Dhaka. Two men on a motorcycle opened fire and fled the scene, leaving him critically injured. He was taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later to Evercare Hospital before being moved to Singapore, where he died on Thursday night while receiving treatment.

An attack was carried out at the Prothom Alo newspaper office building in Karwan Bazar on Thursday after midnight, during which arson was reported, sources said. At one stage of the incident, unruly people set fire to parts of the building, prompting an immediate response from the Fire Service and Civil Defence. Contacted, the Fire Service and Civil Defence headquarter control room confirmed receiving the fire alert. “We received the information about the fire at 12:28am,” said duty officer Md Shahjahan. He added that fire service units were dispatched immediately after receiving the call and were on their way to the scene, but had not reached the location at the time of reporting. Further information will be available after the fire service reaches the spot and assesses the situation.

National Citizen Party (NCP) leader Dr. Tasnim Jara on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the death of Osman Hadi, describing him as a fearless voice who lived courageously. In a Facebook post, she said: “We move through our days believing that tomorrow is a given, that courage will be rewarded, that speaking honestly might be risky but not fatal. Most of the time, life allows us to keep these illusions intact." She said Osman Hadi’s death disrupts that comfort. "He was unafraid to say what he believed needed to be said. He did not live cautiously. He lived as if his voice mattered. In another country, in another time, that would have been an ordinary choice. Here, it became a dangerous one." Jara said there is something deeply unsettling about losing someone like him. "Not only because a life has ended too early, but because it forces us to confront how narrow the space for courage has become." She said, "I've also been thinking about time. About how unevenly it is distributed. About how some people are granted the luxury of growing old, of refining their opinions, of changing their minds, while others are never given that chance. Osman Hadi did not get to age into reflection. He was taken while still in motion.Remembering Hadi must mean more than mourning him. It must mean refusing to accept a future where courage is punished and silence is rewarded. May he rest in peace.”

Sharing the deeply heartbreaking news of Sharif Osman Hadi’s demise, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Thursday night called for calm, unity and steadfast progress towards establishing democracy, justice and the rights of the people, without falling into the trap of those seeking to destabilise the country. “This will be our true tribute to martyr Hadi,” he said in a televised address to the nation. At this moment of national mourning, he urged everyone to transform the ideals and sacrifices of Hadi into collective strength. “Let us remain patient, not listen to propaganda and rumours, and refrain from any rash decisions,” Prof Yunus said. At the beginning of his speech, the Chief Adviser stated, “I have come before you with very heartbreaking news. Sharif Osman Hadi, the fearless fighter at the forefront of the July Uprising and spokesperson of the Inqilab Mancha, who was undergoing treatment in Singapore, is no more with us.” He said that a short while earlier, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan had conveyed the heartbreaking news over the telephone. Prof Yunus again appealed to all citizens to maintain patience and restraint. “Give law enforcement agencies and relevant organisations the opportunity to conduct their investigations professionally. The state is fully committed to establishing the rule of law,” he said. The Chief Adviser reiterated that Hadi was an enemy of the defeated forces and fascist terrorists. “The evil attempt to intimidate revolutionaries by silencing his voice will be completely thwarted. No one can stop the journey to democracy of this country through fear, terror or bloodshed,” he said. Prof Yunus said the nation has reached the final stage of democratic transition. “Shaheed Hadi was an integral part of this process. His sole desire was to contest the upcoming elections and play an active role in the next phase of building a new Bangladesh,” he said. Calling it deeply tragic that Hadi’s dream remained unfulfilled, Prof Yunus added, “The responsibility of realising his dream now rests on the shoulders of the entire nation.” “In the coming days, we must move forward with patience, restraint, courage and foresight so that the fascist terrorist forces - enemies of elections and democracy - can be finally defeated,” he said. The Chief Adviser said the government will take responsibility for Hadi’s wife and his only child and also declared a one-day state mourning on Saturday following Hadi’s death. On this occasion, the national flag will be flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government and autonomous institutions, educational institutions, as well as government and private buildings across the country and at Bangladesh missions abroad. At the same time, special prayers and munajat will be held at every mosque across the country after Jumma prayers on Friday for the eternal peace of martyr Hadi. “Please join us in this. Special prayers will also be organised at places of worship of other religions,” Prof Yunus said. Prof Yunus prayed that Almighty Allah accepts this immortal soldier of the struggle against fascism and hegemony as a martyr. “We all pray together,” he said. Expressing deep sorrow and grief at Hadi’s untimely death, Prof Yunus said the loss is irreparable for the country’s political and democratic landscape. “I pray for the eternal peace of his soul and express my deepest condolences to his bereaved wife, family members, relatives and colleagues,” he added. He expressed special gratitude to the Singapore government, saying, “They have shown utmost sincerity and professionalism in treating Hadi—especially Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, who is also a doctor.” He said the Singapore foreign minister personally took care of Hadi and kept him regularly informed about the treatment. “All those involved in this brutal murder will be brought to justice swiftly, and the maximum punishment will be ensured. No laxity will be shown in this regard,” Prof Yunus said. Describing Hadi as a symbol of resistance, he said, “This young leader, Osman Hadi, imbued with revolutionary spirit, was a unique symbol of protest. Through his actions, he set an example not only of resistance but also of patriotism, patience and determination.”

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho. In a statement, he said Hadi’s courageous and steadfast role against imperialism and injustice will remain an inspiration for the country’s youth. He described the late Osman Hadi as a fearless fighter for justice whose untimely death has caused an irreparable loss to society and the nation. The adviser prayed for the departed soul and conveyed his condolences to Hadi’s bereaved family.

Police recovered the body of a 60-year-old man, Abdul Hakim Hawladar, from a room at Hotel Park in the Folpatti area of Barishal on Thursday at around 12:30pm. The deceased, a resident of South Kajolakathi Daryal Union in Bakerganj, had been working at the hotel as a guard for around 40 years. Hotel staff said he had been unwell for several days due to cold-related illness. He had eaten dinner on Wednesday night and then went to the staff room, from which he did not emerge. Hotel owner Mahmudul Hasan Shawon said he entered his room after dinner and did not come out, prompting staff to alert the police. Sub-Inspector Selim of Kotwali Model Police Station said the body was sent to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital (SHEBACHIM) morgue for further examination.

Traffic came to a standstill at Shahbagh on Thursday night as leaders and activists of Inqilab Moncho, along with Dhaka University students, began gathering around 10:30 pm to mourn the death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi. Osman Hadi, the fiery face of the July Uprising, convenor of Inqilab Moncho and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, died on Thursday while receiving medical treatment in Singapore. Hadi was critically injured on December 12 when assailants opened fire on him while he was traveling in a rickshaw near the water tank in Bijoynagar, Dhaka. Two individuals on a motorcycle approached his rickshaw, and one of them shot him at close range before fleeing the scene. He was initially taken to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later transferred to Evercare Hospital for advanced ICU care, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) on Thursday organised a high-level roundtable titled “Strengthening Bangladesh’s Institutional Capacity for a Smooth LDC Graduation: Priorities, Sequencing, and Strategies to Avoid the Middle-Income Trap,” at a hotel in Dhaka. The discussion brought together development partners, diplomatic missions, economists, private sector representatives, and sectoral experts to identify practical and coordinated measures to safeguard competitiveness and strengthen long-term resilience. This roundtable aims to foster a focused policy conversation on how international cooperation, particularly from foreign missions and development agencies, can support Bangladesh in addressing institutional gaps, realigning assistance frameworks, and building long-term resilience in the post-graduation landscape. Dr. Selim Raihan, Professor, Department of Economics, University of Dhaka and Executive Director, South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM); Syed Nasim Manzur, Industrialist, Managing Director, Apex Footwear Limited; Professor Mustafizur Rahman, Distinguished Fellow, Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD); Mohammed Parvez Imdad, Consultant & Policy Advisor; Nazmus Sadat Khan, Senior Economist, World Bank; Anowarul Haq, Assistant Resident Representative, Democratic Governance Portfolio, UNDP; Barun Kumar Dey, Senior Economic Officer, ADB; Michael Kim McQuay, Chief Strategy and Legal Advisor, The Asia Foundation; Kazi Faisal Bin Seraj, Country Representative, The Asia Foundation; Baiba Zarina, deputy head of mission, Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh; Zillur Rahman, President, Centre for Governance Studies; and Parvez Karim Abbasi, Executive Director, Centre for Governance Studies, spoke at the event. CGS Executive Director Parvez Karim Abbasi moderated the discussion.

Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus will address the nation at 11:20 pm, Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder said Thursday night. Osman Hadi no more The speech will be broadcast simultaneously on Bangladesh Television and BTV News, he added.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman expressed profound sorrow over the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho and a steadfast July activist, in a condolence statement on Wednesday. In the statement, Ameer said, “Sharif Osman Hadi was a courageous July activist and a true patriot. He never bowed to injustice. His voice resonated against all forms of imperialist forces and oppression. He was an unwavering fighter, untouched by worldly greed or temptation.” Dr. Shafiqur Rahman added that Hadi dreamed of a humane, new Bangladesh and played a pivotal role in the struggle for a society based on justice, truth, and fairness. Osman Hadi no more “With his martyrdom, the nation has lost a fearless voice and an idealistic fighter. The void created by his death cannot be easily filled. His strong voice must inspire the new generation to work towards realizing his vision, regardless of party or ideology. The nation will remember his contributions with respect,” he said. The Ameer prayed for Allah’s mercy on Hadi’s soul and extended heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family, including his young children, wife, fellow activists, and well-wishers, praying that Allah grants them the strength to bear the immense loss.

The final preparations for the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JnUCSU) election have begun. The Election Commission has published the ballot numbers of 157 candidates contesting for 21 posts. According to commission sources, the publication of the ballot numbers was slightly delayed due to some official formalities. The information was obtained from a notice published on the Election Commission’s website today, Thursday (18 December).Earlier, on Wednesday night, the revised final list of 157 candidates was published. According to the Election Commission, among the key posts, 12 candidates are contesting for the Vice-President (VP) position, 9 candidates for the General Secretary (GS) position, and 8 candidates for the Assistant General Secretary (AGS) position. Among other editorial posts, 10 candidates are contesting for the Social Service and Student Welfare Secretary position, 8 for the International Affairs Secretary position, and 8 for the Sports Secretary position. The highest number of candidates is contesting for the Executive Member posts, with a total of 57 candidates in the race. JnUCSU Election: Student bodies move to form ‘inclusive panels’ In this election, the total number of voters is 16,725. According to the revised schedule, election campaigning began on 15 December and will continue until 27 December. The date for voting and vote counting has been set for 30 December. The university administration and the Election Commission have completed all preparations to ensure a festive and fair election.    

Sharif Osman bin Hadi, the fiery face of the July Uprising, convenor of Inqilab Moncho and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, is no more. He passed away on Thursday at 9:45 pm while receiving medical treatment in Singapore. The Inqilab Moncho official Facebook page announced the news Thursday night, stating, “In the struggle against Indian hegemony, Allah has accepted the great revolutionary Osman Hadi as a martyr.” Hadi was critically injured on December 12 when assailants opened fire on him while he was traveling in a rickshaw near the water tank in Bijoynagar, Dhaka. Two individuals on a motorcycle approached his rickshaw, and one of them shot him at close range before fleeing the scene. He was initially taken to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later transferred to Evercare Hospital for advanced ICU care.

The upward trend in remittances sent by expatriate Bangladeshis has continued in December, with receiving over US $2.0 billion in 17 days of the month. Bangladesh received $15.04 billion inward remittance so far in the current fiscal year FY 2025-26. Blessings on the remittance, the gross forex reserves of Bangladesh increased to $32.57 billion on Thursday December 18). As per the IMF standard BPM6, the forex reserves stood $27.87 billion. Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur in a discussion meeting today (Thursday) said that the forex reserves may cross $35 billion this year. According to the latest update from Bangladesh Bank (BB), the $2.0 billion remittance figure for December 1-17 is an increase by 14 percent compared to the same period last year. In December of the previous year (2024), the country received around $1.76 billion in the 17 days. December remittances keep up rapid pace:$1.71 bn in 14 days The growth is attributed to several factors, including incentives offered for sending money through legal banking channels, increased encouragement for using the formal system, and the active role of exchange houses. Remittance inflow has shown robust growth throughout the current fiscal year (FY 2025-26). From July 1 to December 17, 2025, the total remittance inflow reached $15.04billion. This represents an increase of $2.14 billion compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year (FY 2024-25), when the total stood at $12.89 billion. The year-on-year growth rate for the fiscal year to date is 16.7 percent.  

Jatiya Chhatra Shakti, the student wing of the National Citizen Party (NCP), staged a protest at Dhaka University (DU) today demanding the resignation of Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, citing the failure to arrest those responsible for the attack on Inqilab Mancha convener Sharif Osman Hadi and the overall deterioration of law and order. Following a protest march, demonstrators burned an effigy of the Home Affairs Adviser.

Law Adviser Proffessor Asif Nazrul on Thursday expressed concern to the Chief Justice over what he described as the granting of “abnormal bail” to terror suspects by some benches of the High Court. Speaking to reporters after a farewell meeting with Chief Justice Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed at the Supreme Court, Asif Nazrul said he had conveyed his worries about the issue both earlier and again on Thursday. He said Thursday marked the last working day of Chief Justice Dr Refaat Ahmed, and he visited him to express gratitude for his role at a critical juncture for the nation. “He assumed office as Chief Justice at a very crucial moment and played a guardian’s role in judicial reforms in line with the aspirations of the July mass uprising,” Asif Nazrul said. The law adviser noted that all legal reforms undertaken through the Law Ministry received the Chief Justice’s support. “At different times, we shared our concerns with him. One of the key concerns was that some High Court benches were granting bail in an unusual manner,” he said. Asif Nazrul claimed that in some instances, hundreds of bail orders were issued within a few hours. He said the Chief Justice had taken measures in this regard, including summoning the concerned benches, which reduced the trend to some extent, though it still persists. He warned that individuals released on such bail could pose serious threats, including attacks on leaders of the July mass uprising. “When dangerous individuals are granted bail, we feel deeply alarmed and concerned,” he said, adding that the Law Ministry has no authority over the High Court. Judiciary must see constitutional changes as reality, not threat: CJ Syed Refaat Describing the Chief Justice as the guardian of the High Court, Asif Nazrul said he hoped the issue would be given due consideration by the next Chief Justice as well. He also said the name of the new Chief Justice is likely to be announced within the next three to four days. The law adviser further said Dr Refaat Ahmed had agreed to continue offering advice even after retirement to help sustain the reforms undertaken in the judiciary. Asif Nazrul said the appointment of the next Chief Justice is a policy decision of the government, and he does not have the authority to comment on it individually. However, he added that the name of the next Chief Justice is likely to be known within the next three to four days.    

Residents of Refugee Colony in Barishal were thrown into panic after a public shooting erupted between rival groups overnight. The incident occurred near Sardar Manzil behind Nuria School late Wednesday night. A video of the incident shows two young men riding a motorcycle and firing shots in public, while others on the street, armed with homemade weapons, engaged in a chase. The gunfire took place around 11:00 PM in front of Sardar Manzil. Locals alleged that Roki, son of “Kasai Salam” from Refugee Colony, fired at Rubel, also known as “Nak Kata Rubel,” amid a long-standing dispute between the two. The shooting caused widespread fear among residents. Kotwali Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Al Mamun Ul Islam, however, denied the report of gunfire, saying the incident stemmed from a drug-related chase between the two sides. He added that no firearms were used, only homemade weapons, and that a written complaint has been filed. “Appropriate action will be taken following investigation,” he said.

Lieutenant General (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Adviser on Home and Agriculture Affairs, said no force can hinder elections when the people are determined to vote. He made the remark on Thursday afternoon while visiting Rajdia Abdul Jabbar Pilot Girls’ High School in Sirajdikhan upazila of Munshiganj. After inspecting various development works at the school and inaugurating the foundation of a new building, he spoke to journalists. He also added that if political parties engage in competitive coexistence, it will have a positive impact on the country’s democracy. The Home and Agriculture Adviser said journalists play the most important role during elections. “If you report objectively and provide the public with accurate information, a credible election can be ensured,” he added. He also appealed to the public through the media to pray for the speedy recovery of Sharif Osman Hadi, the spokesperson of the Inqilab Moncho, so that he can return to society soon. On agriculture, he noted that many farmers faced losses in potato cultivation this season, yet they are returning to potato farming. “The government is seriously considering incentives for them,” he said. Prayers most needed for Hadi now: Home Adviser He added that despite losses in potatoes, this year’s rice production has shown good results. Earlier, the Adviser visited several educational institutions in Sirajdikhan upazila, including Bikrampur Kunjabehari Government College, Ichhapura Government Model High School, Kusumpur High School, and Kusumpur Government Primary School, inspecting their development activities. He was accompanied by DIG of Dhaka Range Rezaul Karim Mallick, Munshiganj Deputy Commissioner Syeda Nurmahal Ashrafi, Superintendent of Police Menhazul Alam, Sirajdikhan Upazila Executive Officer Rumpa Ghosh, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Tauhidul Islam Bari, Upazila Engineer Asif Ullah, and other officials.  

All law-enforcement agencies, except Ansar and VDP, will be deployed solely for election duty for five days, the Election Commission said in a special circular on Thursday. The law-enforcement agencies other than Ansar and VDP will remain exclusively engaged for five days—from three days before the polling day to one day after voting. The Ansar and VDP will be deployed for six days, starting four days ahead of the election and continuing until one day after polling. The EC will allocate the required budget for election-time deployment following the traditional system, reads the circular. Besides, the operational deployment of the law enforcement agencies will continue till seven days after the voting day, which started after the announcement of election schedule, said the circular issued ahead of the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on July Charter, scheduled for February 12, 2026. The Police Force, Armed Police Battalion, Rapid Action Battalion, Ansar Force, Battalion Ansar, Border Guard Bangladesh, Coast Guard Force, Bangladesh Army, Bangladesh Navy and Bangladesh Air Force are defined as law-enforcement agencies in the recently promulgated Representation of the People (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025. About the armed forces --Bangladesh Army, Bangladesh Navy and Bangladesh Air Force -- the circular said the armed forces have already been deployed in aid of the civil administration, a deployment that will continue during the election period. The government has granted magistracy powers to the armed forces, which will remain effective until February 28, 2026. Maintaining a normal law-and-order situation is a prerequisite for conducting a free, fair and festive election, it noted, saying the EC has outlined a set of priorities for the authorities concerned to hold the elections in fair and peaceful manners. The issues that should be given special importance include keeping the overall law-and-order situation peaceful and normal; ensuring all parties and candidates can carry out lawful campaign activities without hindrance;  enabling voters to cast their ballots fearlessly and comfortably; ensuring security of polling centres, control rooms, related installations and offices; securing uninterrupted transportation and storage of election materials and ballots, including postal ballots; preventing the spread and impact of rumours and disinformation; and ensuring safety of minority and marginalised communities irrespective of ethnicity, religion, gender or tribe. Another key focus is creating a supportive environment that enables persons with disabilities, the injured, the elderly, the sick, and expectant mothers to exercise their voting rights without hindrance. Ensuring the safety of all individuals involved in election arrangements is also a priority, alongside providing security and assistance to field-level committees and officials, including Electoral Inquiry and Adjudication Committees, judicial and executive magistrates and surveillance, monitoring, and law-and-order teams. In addition, authorities are tasked with enforcing compliance with the electoral code of conduct by parties and candidates, while providing security support for the Election Commission’s voter awareness programmes, including those related to the referendum. The safety of presiding and polling officers is also emphasised, covering the period from the receipt of election materials and ballots until the results are submitted to returning or assistant returning officers. Bangladesh’s EC invites applications from international election observers The circular also spelled out the general framework for law and order saying that the EC’s coordination cell will maintain regular coordination and communication, while the Home Affairs Ministry will act as the lead ministry for planning, coordination and supervision of law-and-order measures during the pre-election period and the EC-designated post-election period. Disinformation Monitoring Cell The EC will operate a Law and Order and Disinformation Monitoring Cell comprising representatives from the EC, ministries, divisions, BTRC and all relevant forces and agencies till February 14, 2026. But the cell will function in full form for seven days— from four days before polling to two days after the balloting day. Operational Deployment The circular detailed two phases of deployment of law- enforcement agencies – normal deployment and election-time deployment. The law-enforcement agencies are on the normal (current) deployment from the announcement of election schedule to seven days after the balloting day excluding the election-time deployment period.    But the agencies Ansar and VDP will be on exclusive election-time development for five days (three days before polling, polling day and one day after), while Ansar and VDP for six days (four days before polling, polling day and one day after). There will be two types of deployment of law enforcers– statics and mobile. In case of static deployment, they will be deployed based on the polling stations for five days during the balloting, while permanent or temporary check posts for the full election period. Besides, the law enforcers will be deployed as mobile or patrol forces, striking forces and reserve forces (for full time). Coordination Directives An official from each commission, ministry, division and force or agency concerned will act as a focal point to coordinate with the EC’s coordination cell. Agencies with technological capabilities will support the EC in countering disinformation. EC seeks police for RO, ARO offices ahead of Bangladesh polls The EC’s focal point is its Deputy Secretary Mohammad Monir Hossain, said the special circular. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on December 11 last announced the schedule to arrange the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order simultaneously on February 12 next. According to the election schedule, the deadline for the submission of nomination paper is December 29, while the scrutiny of nomination paper is on December 30-January 4 and the last date for the withdrawal of candidature is January 20. The election campaign will start on January 22 and continue till 48 hours before the balloting period (7:30am on February 10).    

Students held a long march towards the office of the Indian Assistant High Commissioner in Khulna on Wednesday afternoon. The march began around 3:30 pm from Royal Mor and moved along Shamsur Rahman Road carrying banners, festoons and chanting slogans. The joint force of police, RAB, and army personnel stationed in front of the Civil Surgeon’s office tried to stop the march as the protesters broke through the barricades and moved forward. At the same time, the demonstrators sat on the road while chanting in front of the newly built convention center. After staying there for about half an hour, they resumed the march back toward Royal Mor. During the assembly held while stationed on Shamsur Rahman Road, speakers alleged that some Bangladeshi criminals taking shelter in India are involved in a conspiracy to destabilize the country. They also claimed that suspects in several recent killings and violent attacks fled to India and demanded their immediate return to Bangladesh. Arms manufacturing den busted in Khulna, 3 held The speakers warned that if the accused are not returned by December 25, they will announce stronger actions. They described the protest as a “clear message” to the relevant authorities. The event was attended by leaders of the Anti-Domination Alliance, including Ahmad Hamim Rahat, Minan Mushfiq, Romjan Sheikh, Miraj Hossain, Mohammad Tanmoy, Fayzullah Shakil, Shammi Islam, Saeed Newaz, Mirajul Islam and Moharam Hossain Mahim.    

Netflix is planning to buy Warner Bros, not to end traditional TV, but to adopt its proven practices and library of popular shows, industry experts say. The streaming giant excluded Discovery’s cable channels from the deal, showing it wants to avoid owning traditional broadcast, cable, and satellite infrastructure. The move reflects the growing shift of audiences from linear TV to online streaming. Netflix has long been seen as a disruptor, launching shows like House of Cards in 2013. But analysts say the company has often copied the structure and strategies of traditional television rather than replacing them. The acquisition of Warner Bros, including HBO, would give Netflix access to a large back catalogue of popular series like Friends, helping the platform attract subscribers with familiar content. Experts note this mirrors Amazon’s 2022 purchase of MGM, where the studio library became a key asset for streaming. This deal could also allow Netflix to bundle content and brands similar to the traditional cable model, offering a combined subscription experience. Examples include Disney’s integration of Hulu with Disney+ in the U.S. Netflix has already adopted several TV-style strategies, including live events, sports, and an ad-supported tier introduced in 2022. The company also produces local content for national audiences, mimicking the practices of traditional broadcasters. If the Warner Bros deal succeeds, it will accelerate Netflix’s adoption of conventional TV approaches while keeping its streaming platform at the center, blending innovation with the legacy of network and cable storytelling.   With inputs from NDTV

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a sweeping crackdown on hate speech following a deadly shooting at Bondi that targeted a Jewish festival, vowing new laws to curb extremism and protect communities. Albanese said the proposed measures would target those who spread hate, division and radicalisation after 15 people were killed when two gunmen opened fire during an event marking the first day of Hanukkah. Under the plan, the home affairs minister will receive expanded powers to cancel or refuse visas to individuals accused of promoting hate. A new taskforce will also be formed to ensure the education system prevents and properly responds to antisemitism. The proposed legislation includes penalties for religious preachers and leaders who promote violence, the creation of a new federal offence of aggravated hate speech, and the use of hate as an aggravating factor in sentencing for online threats and harassment. “Every Jewish Australian has the right to feel safe, valued and respected,” Albanese said, adding that those behind the attack sought to divide the nation but Australians had responded with solidarity and compassion. Tensions remain high following the attack. Police in New South Wales said they detained seven men in southwest Sydney after receiving information about a possible violent plot, though authorities said there was no identified link to the Bondi shooting. Australia’s antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal said the country was at a critical moment in addressing antisemitism, and Albanese confirmed his government would fully adopt recommendations she submitted earlier this year. Some of those proposals had drawn criticism over concerns they could restrict free speech, particularly on university campuses and in arts institutions. Jewish community groups broadly welcomed the government’s commitment to act, though some expressed concern that parts of the announcement could limit legitimate political expression. Albanese acknowledged criticism that his government had not done enough to tackle antisemitism since the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, saying he accepted responsibility and stressed the need to unite the nation rather than deepen divisions.   With inputs from BBC

Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed on Thursday emphasised that the judiciary should view amendments to the Constitution not as a threat, but as a reflection of democratic reality. “People hold constitutional authority and can amend the Constitution over time. The judiciary must accept this not as a threat but as a democratic reality,” he said while addressing a farewell reception at Courtroom No 1 of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court. The Chief Justice said the strength of the judiciary does not lie in any single office but in a collective commitment to serve with justice, balance and foresight. Addressing judges and lawyers of both divisions of the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice said they have together passed through a significant period in the country’s judicial history. He expressed gratitude for the cooperation he received over the last 16 months. Refaat Ahmed said the state is run under the Constitution through three principal organs, namely the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. “The Supreme Court building is not merely a structure but one of the three foundations of civic life. Judges are usually credited for verdicts but it is the lawyers who shape the language, reasoning and structure of those judgments.” Refaat Ahmed said in an unstable world, the judiciary’s stability, restraint, integrity and courage can be the most reliable source of national steadiness. Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed will retire on December 27. The farewell reception was organised to mark his last working day in line with tradition. Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman first spoke on the Chief Justice’s professional life followed by speeches from Supreme Court Bar Association President AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon. Following the fall of the Awami League government after the July mass uprising, Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed took oath as the country’s 25th Chief Justice on August 11 last year. As per the Constitution, judges retire at the age of 67. Born on December 28, 1958, the Chief Justice will reach that age on December 27. Syed Refaat was born on 28 December 1958. His father, Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed, was a legendary legal mind and an Attorney General of Bangladesh and his mother, Language Movement veteran Sufia Ahmed, was a National Professor of Bangladesh and a professor of Islamic History and Culture at the University of Dhaka. He obtained LL.B. (Hons) (First Class, First in order of merit), University of Dhaka. He completed a bachelor of arts in jurisprudence and masters at the Wadham College of Oxford University in 1983. Later, he completed his Masters and PhD from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy of Tufts University, USA. He was also a Ford Foundation Fellow in Public International Law at The Fletcher School. In 1984, Ahmed became a lawyer of the District Courts. He became a lawyer of the High Court Division in 1986. In 2002, he became a lawyer of the High Court Division. Later, he was appointed an additional justice of the Bangladesh High Court on 27 April 2003. Ahmed was made a permanent Judge on the High Court Division on 27 April 2005. Justice Refaat Ahmed also worked as a Lawyer in the City of London and with the UNHCR in Hong Kongand Washington, D.C.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali on Thursday said law enforcers must ensure public safety while allowing normal daily activities to continue uninterrupted. He made the remarks at a meeting at the DMP Headquarters ahead of Christmas, the largest religious festival of the Christian community, and the English New Year’s Eve. The DMP commissioner said security measures should be taken in a way that does not hamper the normal movement of people. He said adequate arrangements would be in place to ensure that Christmas is observed in a solemn and festive atmosphere. He said Christmas-related religious programmes will be held at 73 churches across the capital. To prevent the spread of rumours and misinformation, cyber patrolling has been intensified alongside enhanced intelligence surveillance. Referring to upcoming events, the commissioner urged all concerned to remain alert to prevent any untoward incidents on the 31ar night. He also requested city residents to refrain from motor racing, warning that vehicles involved in racing on 31st night would be seized. Additional Police Commissioner (Administration) Md Sarwar said prior permission must be obtained to organise any event on the occasion of 31st night. Additional Police Commissioner (DB) Md Shafiqul Islam said fireworks and sky lanterns would not be allowed. Leaders of the Christian community, Additional Police Commissioner (Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime) Md Masud Karim, Additional Police Commissioner (Traffic) Md Anisur Rahman, representatives of various agencies, joint commissioners of DMP, deputy commissioners and officers in charge of concerned police stations were present at the meeting.

Africa has been hit hardest by the Trump administration’s decision to widen U.S. travel restrictions, but reactions across the continent remained largely muted on Wednesday as governments and citizens assessed the impact. The new move adds 20 countries to the U.S. travel ban list, expanding measures first announced in June. The restrictions are broader and tougher than those imposed during President Donald Trump’s first term, which mainly targeted Muslim-majority nations and were lifted in 2021. Of the five countries newly placed under a full ban, four are in Africa: Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and South Sudan. Syria and holders of travel documents issued by the Palestinian Authority were also included. Several other African countries, including Sierra Leone, were shifted from partial to full restrictions. Twelve of the 15 countries facing partial limits are African nations, among them Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Angola. The measures link entry limits to concerns over security, documentation, and visa overstays. The African Union urged the United States to enforce border controls in a balanced and evidence-based way that respects long-standing ties with Africa. The bloc warned the restrictions could harm education, trade, people-to-people contacts, and diplomatic relations built over decades. Some affected governments said it was too early to react. Sierra Leone said it hopes to engage Washington to seek a review, while Mali’s foreign ministry declined immediate comment. Analysts and citizens in several countries described the move as unfair and warned it could weaken U.S.–Africa relations while opening space for other global powers to deepen ties on the continent. Others expressed concern over business, education, and travel plans, including possible impacts on fans hoping to attend the 2026 football World Cup in the United States. In South Sudan, rights activists said the ban reflects Washington’s growing frustration with the government over delays in implementing a peace deal signed in 2018.  

The Election Commission on Thursday asked the Home Ministry to deploy necessary number of police personnel to ensure the security of the offices of Returning Officers (ROs) and Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) ahead of the upcoming national election and the referendum, scheduled for February 12, 2026. “Necessary directives should be given to deploy the required number of police forces to ensure the security of the offices of Returning Officers and Assistant Returning Officers,” said a letter sent to the ministry. It said that these offices store important election-related documents, electoral materials and equipment. |Considering the law and order situation during the election period, the EC has given its decision that it is essential to ensure the security of the preserved documents and materials, as well as the safety of the officials and employees working in those offices,” said the letter. The Election Commission appointed two divisional commissioners and 64 district deputy commissioners (DCs) and three of its own officials as returning officers for the February 12 election and referendum. The divisional commissioners for Dhaka and Chattogram and the Regional Election Officers of Dhaka, Chattogram and Khulna were made returning officers alongside the 64 DCs in the election. Besides, more than 600 government and EC officials, mostly Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNO) were made assistant returning officers in the election. Bangladesh’s EC invites applications from international election observers Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on December 11 last announced the schedule to arrange the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order simultaneously on February 12 next. According to the election schedule, the deadline for the submission of nomination paper is December 29, while the scrutiny of nomination paper is on December 30-January 4 and the last date for the withdrawal of candidature is January 20. The election campaign will start on January 22 and continue till 48 hours before the balloting period (7:30am on February 10).  

The International Crimes Tribunal has ordered the start of trial against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and 12 others, including five former DGFI DGs  in a crimes against humanity case over enforced disappearances and torture at the Joint Interrogation Cell (JIC) during the Awami League regime. A three-member panel of Tribunal-1 headed by its Chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumder passed the order. Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam appeared for the prosecution along with prosecutors Mizanul Islam, Gazi MH Tamim, Shaikh Mahdi and others. Of the 10 fugitive accused, five served as DGFI directors general at different times. They are Lieutenant General (retd) Mohammad Akbar Hossain,  Major General(retd) Saiful Abedin,  Lieutenant General(retd) Md Saiful Alam, Lieutenant General(retd) Ahmed Tabrez Shams Chowdhury and Major General(retd) Hamidul Haque. The other accused are Sheikh Hasina’s former defence affairs adviser retired Major General Tarique Ahmed Siddique, former DGFI director Major General(retd) Mohammad Touhidul Ul Islam, Major General(retd) Kabir Ahmed and Lieutenant Colonel(retd)  Mokhsurul Haque. December 14 was fixed for the order on framing of charges but no order was issued that day and the tribunal later set Thursday for the decision. At the same time, three accused who were earlier arrested by police were produced before the tribunal. On November 9, advocate Azizur Rahman Dulu argued for the discharge of the three arrested accused, citing four grounds. The tribunal said it would consider three grounds related to illegal detention, abduction and torture while the fourth ground concerned enforced disappearance. The prosecution submitted five charges in the case. During the December 7 hearing on charge framing, Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam detailed what he described as horrific incidents of enforced disappearance and torture of government critics at the JIC. He presented accounts of 26 people who were allegedly disappeared between October 22, 2015 and August 5, 2024, and sought framing of charges against all 13 accused. Earlier, on November 23, state defence counsel was appointed for the fugitive accused. Senior lawyer ZI Khan Panna was initially appointed to represent Sheikh Hasina at her request but he withdrew on December 3 due to illness after which Md Amir Hossain was appointed as her counsel. On October 8, formal charges were submitted against the 13 accused. The tribunal took cognisance of the charges and issued arrest warrants against them.

New York is set to legalize medically assisted suicide for terminally ill patients under an agreement reached between Governor Kathy Hochul and state legislative leaders, the governor announced on Wednesday. Hochul said she plans to sign the bill next year after securing added safeguards, or “guardrails,” to ensure the law is applied carefully. Writing in an op-ed, the Democratic governor said her decision followed conversations with patients enduring severe pain, their families, and people of faith who oppose ending life on moral grounds. The proposed Medical Aid in Dying Act would allow patients expected to die within six months to request life-ending medication. The request must be made in writing, signed by two witnesses to rule out coercion, and approved by both an attending physician and a consulting doctor. Additional provisions will require confirmation from a medical doctor of the patient’s prognosis and an evaluation by a psychologist or psychiatrist to ensure the decision is voluntary and informed. The bill also includes a mandatory five-day waiting period and both written and recorded oral requests to confirm free will. Facilities tied to religious hospitals may opt out, and the measure will apply only to New York residents. The law would take effect six months after being signed. Hochul described backing the bill as one of the most difficult decisions of her tenure, saying she could no longer deny terminally ill patients a choice they are pleading for at the end of life. The legislation, first introduced in 2016, faced years of opposition from religious groups, including the New York State Catholic Conference, which argues it undermines the sanctity of life and the role of physicians. Church leaders renewed their criticism after the announcement, warning it could endanger vulnerable people. Supporters say the law will ease suffering and allow terminally ill individuals to die with dignity. About a dozen other states and the District of Columbia have already enacted similar measures.    

Bangladesh’s stock markets extended their downward trend on Thursday, the last trading day of the week, with key indices of both the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) and Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) closing lower amid thin trading. At the DSE, the benchmark DSEX index shed 22 points at the end of the session. Among the other indices, the Shariah-based DSES gained 8 points, while the blue-chip DS30 rose by 9 points. Market breadth remained negative as prices of 254 companies declined against advances in 69, while shares of 68 companies remained unchanged. Block trades saw shares of 25 companies worth Tk 24 crore change hands, with Mutual Trust Bank (MTB) accounting for the highest turnover of Tk 6 crore. Total turnover on the DSE stood at Tk 303 crore, the lowest of the week, down from Tk 375 crore in the previous session. BD Thai Food & Beverage Limited topped the gainers’ list on the DSE, rising by over 5 percent, while Ratanpur Steel Re-Rolling Mills Limited emerged as the top loser, shedding more than 6 percent. The bearish trend was also evident at the CSE, where the overall CASPI index dropped 69 points. Out of the traded issues, prices of 76 companies declined, while 36 advanced and 23 remained unchanged. The turnover at the CSE stood at Tk 4.50 crore during the session, down from Tk 5.80 crore in the previous trading day. Doreen Power Generations and Systems Limited topped the CSE gainers with a rise of over 9 percent, while Sena Insurance PLC hit the bottom, losing 10 percent.

The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) on Thursday appointed Nuzhat Anwar as the Managing Director of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE). DSE Board Chairman Mominul Islam welcomed the decision, saying, “We are pleased to receive BSEC’s approval for Nuzhat’s appointment. After a rigorous selection process over the past year, we are confident that she is the right leader to drive the transformation of DSE.” Nuzhat brings over 20 years of experience in financial markets, banking and development finance, said a press release. She most recently served at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, holding senior leadership roles across Africa and South Asia. DSE launches Help Desk to improve investor information services Her roles included Resident Representative for Liberia and Sierra Leone, Senior Country Officer for Bangladesh covering Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal, and Acting Cluster Manager during the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier, she helped establish IFC’s presence in Botswana and Namibia, facilitating the institution’s first investment in Botswana and promoting sustainable investment programmes. She also spent 16 years with Citibank Bangladesh and Standard Chartered Bank Bangladesh in senior management positions.  

The government has appointed 673 candidates who were ‘deprived’ in the 27th Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examination to various cadres of the Bangladesh Civil Service  as per a court verdict. The Public Administration Ministry issued a gazette notificationon Thursday following recommendations from the Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC). The newly appointed officers have been asked to join their respective offices designated by the cadre-controlling ministries or divisions by January 1, said the notification. 50th BCS circular published If no further instructions are received from the cadre-controlling ministry or division, the appointees are required to join on that date. The gazette also said that failure to join on the stipulated date will be considered as unwillingness to accept the appointment and the appointment letter will be deemed cancelled.  

The Election Commission has invited applications from the International Election Observers or Observer Organisations and the Foreign Media intending to monitor the upcoming referendum and national election scheduled for February 12. International observers or observer organisations and the foreign media were asked to apply by January 17, 2026 in line with the ‘Guidelines for International Election Observers and Foreign Media 2025, said a notice issued by the Election Commission on Thursday. The notice signed by EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said Bangladesh Election Commission is committed to hold free, fair, credible and participatory elections and for ensuring that the commission keeps all activities of the election process open to observations. “In this context, we expect Election Observers and Media across the world to observe the upcoming Referendum and 13th Parliamentary elections along with our local observers at their convenience,” it read. The ‘Guidelines for International Election Observers and Foreign Media 2025 and related forms are available in www.ecs.gov.bd. In the case of having any queries, the international observers and foreign media were asked to contact Ruhul Amin Mollik, Director, Public Relations, EC Secretariat as he could be accessed through email: [email protected] and cell phone: +8801715295046 (WhatsApp). Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on December 11 last announced the schedule to arrange the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order simultaneously on February 12 next. According to the election schedule, the deadline for the submission of nomination paper is December 29, while the scrutiny of nomination paper is on December 30-January 4 and the last date for the withdrawal of candidature is January 20. The election campaign will start on January 22 and continue till 48 hours before the balloting period (7:30am on February 10). So far, two-three international organisations and countries, including the European Union (EU) confirmed that they would send their observer missions to Bangladesh. EU to deploy up to 200 observers for Bangladesh’s polls: EC Secretary The EC Secretary on Wednesday said the EU would send 175-200 observers to monitor the upcoming parliamentary election and the referendum and EU Parliament member Ivars Ijabs would lead its observer mission in Bangladesh.  “Some 175-200 EU observers will arrive here at different times to observe the polls,” he said. He said the EU observers would come here to watch the election following a tripartite agreement signed among the Election Commission, the Foreign Ministry of Bangladesh and the EU on Monday last. The High Representative/Vice President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas decided to deploy an EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) to observe the Bangladesh election and appointed Ivars Ijabs as its chief observer.      

The Council of Advisers at a meeting on Thursday approved the drafts of three ordinances on enforced disappearance prevention, haor and wetland conservation and establishment of a new Bangladesh embassy in Bern, Switzerland. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus presided over the meeting held at his office. Under Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Redress (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, a person missing for at least five years without returning alive can be officially declared ‘disappeared’ by a tribunal. The government may appoint the required number of public prosecutors for the ‘Disappearance Prevention and Redress Tribunal’ based on recommendations from the Human Rights Commission. Besides, victims or complainants may hire lawyers independently and a missing person’s spouse or dependent family member may use the missing person’s property with prior approval from the commission. The council also approved the draft of Bangladesh Haor and Wetland Conservation Ordinance 2025 both in principle and final form. The ordinance clearly defines the responsibilities, authority and jurisdiction of the Department of Haor and Wetland Development. It keeps provision for the issuance of protective ordinances to preserve biodiversity, environment, and ecosystems in haor and wetland areas and declaration of protected haor and wetland zones. The ordinance also lists prohibited activities in these areas, defines violations as offenses and sets penalties. It requires consultation with the department for development projects, subject to specific exceptions and empowers the formulation of rules and guidelines for coordination with other authorities, engagement of local stakeholders, and inclusion in conservation efforts. Besides, the council of adviser approved the proposal to establish a new Bangladesh embassy in Bern, Switzerland, aiming to strengthen relations with Switzerland, a key development partner and strategic ally. Initially, the embassy will operate with an ambassador, a first secretary, and a few officers and staff. Outgoing South Korean envoy calls on CA Yunus Bangladesh currently has 82 missions worldwide. The council of advisers also discussed the critical health condition of Sharif Osman Hadi, a frontline activist of the July Uprising and spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho. The council gave special thanks to the Ministry of Liberation Affairs for organising this year’s Victory Day celebrations smoothly and successfully.    

The government of Bangladesh has received commendation from the International Labour Organization (ILO) for its wide-ranging labour reforms. In a letter dated December 17, 2025, ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo expressed his appreciation for the “clear outline of these developments” as communicated earlier by Chief Advisor’s Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi. In his letter, Director-General Houngbo wrote: "I would like to commend the efforts of the Government of Bangladesh in undertaking a wide range of labour reforms... In particular, I recognize the significant measures introduced in the Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025”. The commendation follows a November 21, 2025, update from Special Envoy Siddiqi detailing actions towards workers' rights, including freedom of association, collective bargaining, social dialogue, and working conditions. He wrote that, following clear instructions from Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus, “the pace, process and progress of these reforms had to make a clear break from the foot-dragging of the past”. Bangladesh becomes first Asian country to ratify all 10 ILO fundamental instruments Director-General Houngbo also referred to Bangladesh’s recent ratification of additional conventions on occupational safety and health and violence and harassment as “another historical milestone”. The instruments of ratification were deposited by Labour Advisor   Brigadier General (R) M Sakhawat Hussain in Geneva on November 20, 2025, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Thursday. “Taken together, these measures should irreversibly take the country’s labour standards to a much higher plane”, said Siddiqi at the conclusion of his letter underscoring “not just the outcomes but also the processes established along the journey’. Director-General Houngbo concluded by expressing gratitude for the trust placed in the ILO to support the government, workers’ and employers’ organisations through the provision of technical assistance throughout this process”.    

BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed on Thursday said a historic reception awaits BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, who will reach Dhaka at 11:55am on December 25. “Tarique Rahman is scheduled to land at Dhaka airport at 11:55am on December 25 by a regular commercial flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines from London,” he said. Talking to reporters in front of BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office after visiting Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport with the reception committee for Tarique’s return, Salahuddin said people across the country are eager for a glimpse of him, and the BNP is working to ensure the gathering does not cause any public inconvenience. He said their committee inspected security and logistical arrangements at the airport ahead of the BNP Acting Chairman’s arrival. Salahuddin said the party is looking for suitable locations near the airport and Evercare Hospital to organise the reception programme. He said they want to ensure a reception that will surpass all previous gatherings in the last 55 years and will not be forgotten in the next 55 years, marking Tarique’s homecoming. Upon arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the BNP leader said, Tarique will be taken under tight security by road to Evercare Hospital, where his ailing mother and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is undergoing treatment. Salahuddin, the convener of the party’s reception committee for Tarique’s homecoming, said, “We, the members of the reception committee, inspected the area where our leader will land. We checked where he will get down, where he will sit, how he will get into his car and which roads his motorcade will take to reach Evercare Hospital and then his residence. We are coordinating everything with the authorities.” He said Tarique is coming back after 17 years of painful exile. The BNP leader said the government is cooperating to ensure Tarique’s reception and security. He said BNP’s security team, led by retired Brigadier General AKM Shamsul Islam, has held several meetings with the heads of relevant government departments over the past few days to finalise the security arrangements. Salahuddin said BNP leaders and activists from across the country will travel to Dhaka to welcome Tarique. “We are instructing leaders of BNP and affiliated organisations in every district, upazila and union on how they should arrive in Dhaka on the night of 24 December or by the morning of 25 December. There is huge excitement among people all over the country,” he said. Reception committee member secretary Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said the committee is working full swing under the leadership of Salahuddin Ahmed. He said Tarique’s arrival will draw a ‘historic crowd’, and they are working day and night to make the gathering historic and memorable. Meanwhile, BNP has written to Bangladesh Railway authorities requesting to reserve trains on different routes on the night of 24 December to facilitate the arrival of leaders and activists in Dhaka.

The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) has highlighted the deepening humanitarian crisis facing Rohingya refugees and host communities at the Global Refugee Forum (GRF) Progress Review held in Geneva. At a time of declining global funding and rising humanitarian needs, BDRCS emphasized the urgent need for renewed international commitment, sustained and predictable financing, and a stronger shift toward locally led humanitarian action. Representing Bangladesh as part of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) delegation, Areefa Mehera Sinha, Director of International Relations and Communication of BDRCS, drew attention to the growing operational strain on the ground. At several sideline events held between 16-17 December, 2025, Sinha stated that the impact of funding shortfalls is already evident through interrupted health services, reduced WASH coverage, rising malnutrition, weakened disaster preparedness, and increased protection risks, particularly for women, children, elderly people, and persons with disabilities. She also noted that the arrival of approximately 150,000 newly displaced Rohingya since 2024 has further stretched already fragile systems. During the GRF Progress Review and its associated side events, BDRCS raised serious concerns over deep and sudden funding cuts affecting the Rohingya response. With less than half of the required resources currently available, many humanitarian actors have been forced to scale down or withdraw essential services, creating critical gaps in protection and assistance and placing immense pressure on the remaining responders. Speaking from the perspective of a national society deeply embedded in the response, Sinha called for a strategic humanitarian reset that prioritizes essential services while empowering local and national actors. She emphasized the importance of direct, predictable, and flexible funding for Bangladeshi NGOs, stronger coordination across sectors, increased investment in local capacity strengthening with simplified donor compliance, environmental rehabilitation to reduce disaster risks in the camps, and meaningful participation of Rohingya refugees in planning, coordination, and feedback mechanisms. She stressed that locally led action is not only more cost-effective but also essential to sustaining humanitarian assistance in a protracted crisis of this scale. In her intervention, Sinha urged global actors to reflect on the human cost behind policy and funding decisions, stating that when decision-makers return home and sit before a warm meal, they should remember the daily realities faced by Rohingya refugees and host communities and allow that reflection to guide their actions and choices. The High-Level Strategic Dialogue at the GRF Progress Review also featured keynote remarks by Ambassador Asad Alam Siam, Foreign Secretary of the Government of Bangladesh. He reiterated Bangladesh’s sustained humanitarian commitment despite immense socio-economic and environmental pressures and called on the international community to uphold its pledges, share responsibility more equitably, and accelerate efforts toward durable solutions, including the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar. The Global Refugee Forum Progress Review marks a critical midpoint toward the next Global Refugee Forum in 2027. Dr Halida to lead newly formed BDRCS Ad Hoc Board Through its active participation, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian principles and called on global partners to translate pledges into concrete action to ensure protection, dignity, and hope for the Rohingya people and the communities that continue to host them. BDRCS underscored its long-standing and comprehensive humanitarian response in Cox’s Bazar in support of Rohingya refugees and affected host communities. Over the years, the organization has delivered life-saving assistance across shelter, disaster risk reduction, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), health, protection, livelihoods, and community engagement, with implementation largely carried out through local volunteers and community-based mechanisms.  

Amid lingering public unease over the health of Bangladesh’s banking system, Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur has acknowledged that confidence has yet to be fully restored, though efforts by the central bank have prevented a deeper erosion of trust. “But the government has been largely successful in bringing stability to the country’s overall economy,” he said while addressing a seminar titled ‘Banking Sector Reform: Challenges and Way Forward’, organised by the Economic Reporters' Forum (ERF) at its office in Purana Paltan, Dhaka. Governor Mansur highlighted a robust recovery in foreign exchange reserves, stressing that the country should build its reserves through its own economic strength rather than relying on external loans. Foreign exchange reserves increased by more than $8 billion last year and have already grown by a further $1.5 billion to $2 billion this year, he said. Regarding market intervention, the Governor said the central bank has purchased more than $2.5 billion from the open market and will continue to do so as needed. The target is to raise reserves to $34–$35 billion by the end of this year. “Our policy is that we must increase our reserves ourselves. It is neither possible nor appropriate to build reserves by borrowing from the IMF or the World Bank. We will take money from our own economy,” he said. Dr Mansur also spoke about transparency in reporting non-performing loans (NPLs), which have recently been reported at 36 percent. While some advised against publishing such a high figure, he said the central bank remains committed to presenting the true state of the economy. He expressed optimism that NPLs would decline slightly by the end of December, admitting that although governance in the banking sector has shown marginal improvement, it continues to pose a significant challenge. Providing updates on major banks, the Governor said Sommilito Islami Bank is now in a stable position, with final preparations nearly complete and signage expected to be changed within a day or two. He also said Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC has stabilised after receiving Tk10,000 crore in liquidity support from the central bank and is now successfully mobilising deposits without further assistance. Speaking at the event, Dr Fahmida Khatun, Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), said visible reforms are currently concentrated in the financial and banking sectors. Bringing back laundered funds may take 4–5 years: BB governor “NPLs have jumped from 11–12 percent in mid-2024 to 36 percent now. This accounts for nearly 80 percent of the total budget,” she said, adding that political connections often outweighed professionalism in loan distribution. Syed Mahbubur Rahman, Managing Director and CEO of Mutual Trust Bank (MTB), also shared his views on the way forward for the sector. ERF President Doulot Akter Mala presided over the seminar, while General Secretary Abul Kashem moderated it.  

The Trump administration has carried out a series of military operations near Venezuela over the past three months, including attacks on alleged drug-smuggling vessels and the seizure of an oil tanker, in what officials describe as an “armed conflict” with drug cartels. At least 99 people have been killed in 26 known strikes, while the U.S. has deployed its largest regional naval buildup in decades. President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of potential land operations in Venezuela, and on Dec. 16 ordered a blockade of all “sanctioned oil tankers” entering or leaving the country. The administration alleges that Venezuela’s oil is being used to fund drug trafficking, terrorism, and other crimes, though Caracas denounces the actions as theft and international piracy. The military campaign began in September with the first strike on a suspected drug boat linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Subsequent attacks have taken place in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, often targeting vessels accused of smuggling narcotics. In addition to the strikes, the U.S. has sent guided-missile destroyers, amphibious assault ships, fighter jets, and the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford to the region, bringing total troop presence to around 12,000. Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns over the legality and transparency of the operations. Democratic leaders have criticized the administration for not providing sufficient legal justification and called for congressional oversight, while the U.N. human rights chief urged an investigation into the strikes, warning against extrajudicial killings. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has condemned the U.S. actions, mobilizing troops and volunteers for military exercises and insisting that Washington’s operations aim to force him from power. Trump, however, has indicated willingness to engage in discussions with Maduro without specifying details. The campaign continues to draw scrutiny in Congress as lawmakers weigh potential limits on executive military authority, even as House Republicans rejected resolutions seeking to constrain the president’s use of force against drug cartels and Venezuela.  

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has introduced a pilot  “Truck Movement” sub-module on its ASYCUDA World system to digitally record and monitor the entry of cargo-laden trucks from India and the exit of empty trucks, aiming to boost transparency, efficiency and revenue protection at land ports. The pilot of the sub-module began on December 15 at Customs House, Benapole, one of Bangladesh’s busiest land ports, replacing the previously manual tracking system. According to the NBR, the digital module will capture accurate data on the arrival and departure of each Indian truck, allowing authorities to track the duration of their stay in Bangladesh. The system is designed for end-to-end monitoring, enhancing data management and preventing revenue leakages. NBR freezes bank accounts of Hadi’s suspected attacker Masud and his firm Officials said the sub-module will also improve transparency and accountability in customs operations, support border security, and enable real-time reporting for better oversight and decision-making. Following the pilot, the NBR plans to implement the system at all land ports across the country as part of its broader efforts to modernise customs procedures, reduce manual intervention, and enhance cross-border trade management under the ASYCUDA World platform.    

Western officials say Russia is waging a widespread campaign of sabotage across Europe, aiming to disrupt support for Ukraine, expose security weaknesses, and sow divisions among EU nations. In November, a train carrying nearly 500 passengers in eastern Poland was forced to stop after a broken overhead line shattered windows, while explosives detonated under a freight train on the same line. Poland blamed Russian intelligence and deployed 10,000 troops to protect critical infrastructure. These incidents are part of at least 145 documented sabotage acts since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, according to an Associated Press database and European officials. While most attacks have caused limited damage, ranging from vandalism to cyberattacks and warehouse fires, they consume significant resources from security services across Europe, officials say. European intelligence agencies report that the hybrid campaign costs Russia very little, often relying on foreigners with criminal backgrounds as proxies, while forcing EU nations to cooperate extensively on investigations. “It’s a 24/7 operation between all the services to stop it,” said a senior European intelligence official on condition of anonymity. Incidents have targeted countries bordering Russia, including Poland and Estonia, as well as Latvia, the U.K., Germany, and France. Officials note a temporary lull in late 2024, likely to align with the start of President Donald Trump’s new administration, but attacks have since resumed at full intensity. Many plots involve cross-border perpetrators, straining multiple authorities. For instance, a Moldovan man set fire to a Ukrainian restaurant in Estonia and fled through Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland before being caught in Italy. Russian intelligence frequently recruits individuals with criminal records, including former prisoners, to carry out operations, reducing risk to Russian operatives. Even foiled plots drain European resources while testing defenses. Last year, a Ukrainian recruited by Russian intelligence in Lithuania planted explosives inside drone components, which authorities later intercepted. Despite the pressure, Moscow’s campaign has prompted greater cooperation among European nations. Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia have formed joint investigative teams, while U.K. police receive specialized training to detect state-backed attacks. Officials caution that Russia continues experimenting with new tactics. In Belarus, smuggling networks have repeatedly sent hundreds of weather balloons carrying cigarettes into Lithuania and Poland, temporarily shutting down airports—a hybrid tactic authorities warn could evolve into more dangerous threats.  

Belgium on Thursday demanded firm guarantees from its European Union partners that it would be shielded from Russian retaliation before supporting a major EU loan to Ukraine. At a high-stakes EU summit in Brussels, leaders of the 27-nation bloc are set to consider using tens of billions of euros from frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine’s military and economic needs over the next two years. Most of the assets—around 193 billion euros ($227 billion) as of September—are held by Brussels-based financial clearing house Euroclear, which Russia’s Central Bank recently sued. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever told parliament: “Give me a parachute and we’ll all jump together. If we have confidence in the parachute, that shouldn’t be a problem.” Belgium fears potential Russian retaliation and prefers borrowing on international markets, while seeking contributions from frozen assets in other EU countries and legal guarantees for Euroclear. European officials have warned of Russian attempts to disrupt and pressure the continent, with the Central Bank lawsuit intensifying scrutiny on Belgium ahead of the summit. The proposed “reparations loan” would provide Ukraine 90 billion euros ($106 billion), with countries such as the U.K., Canada, and Norway covering any shortfall. Russia’s claim to the assets remains, but the funds would remain frozen until the Kremlin ends the war and compensates for damages. De Wever said Belgium remains “a faithful ally” of Ukraine but is unconvinced by current EU safeguards. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the urgency, saying: “We will not leave the European Council without a solution for the funding of Ukraine for the next two years.” EU Council President António Costa pledged to continue negotiations until an agreement is reached. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned of stark choices, stating: “Either money today or blood tomorrow,” while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged using frozen Russian assets, citing escalating Russian threats. Opposition exists within the bloc: Hungary, Slovakia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Italy, and Malta have raised objections, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán criticizing the plan as “a dead end” and warning that providing funds could escalate conflict.  

The Trump administration has announced a massive arms sales package to Taiwan worth over $11 billion, including medium-range missiles, howitzers, and drones, prompting strong condemnation from China. The State Department unveiled the sales late Wednesday during a nationally televised address by President Donald Trump, who did not address China or Taiwan in his speech. U.S.-China tensions have fluctuated during Trump’s second term, largely over trade, tariffs, and Beijing’s growing assertiveness toward Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory. If approved by Congress, the deal would be the largest-ever U.S. arms sale to Taiwan, surpassing the $8.4 billion provided during the Biden administration. The package covers eight agreements, including 82 high-mobility artillery rocket systems (HIMARS), 420 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), 60 self-propelled howitzers, drones, military software, Javelin and TOW missiles, helicopter parts, and Harpoon missile refurbishment kits. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry values the total package at $11.15 billion. The U.S. said the sales support Taiwan’s efforts to modernize its armed forces and maintain a credible defensive capability, while promoting regional stability, political balance, and economic progress. China’s Foreign Ministry criticized the move, saying it violates diplomatic agreements, threatens China’s sovereignty, and could escalate military tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned the sales would backfire and accused Taiwan of wasting resources on weapons instead of pursuing reunification. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry thanked the U.S., saying the deal would strengthen the island’s self-defense and deterrence capabilities, which are key to regional peace. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung echoed the gratitude, highlighting the role of U.S. support in deterring conflict in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan has pledged to raise defense spending to 3.3% of GDP next year and target 5% by 2030. President Lai Ching-te announced a special $40 billion arms budget over eight years, including the Taiwan Dome air defense system. The U.S. arms package aligns with legislation recently passed by Congress, which Trump is expected to sign. China last week criticized the National Defense Authorization Act for unfairly portraying it as an aggressor. Mistreanu reported from Beijing. AP video journalists Olivia Zhang in Beijing and Johnson Lai in Taipei contributed to this report.  

The government of Bangladesh on Thursday assured diplomats stationed in Dhaka that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure the safety and security of diplomatic missions in the country as per the international norms. Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam briefed the diplomats at State Guest House Padma this afternoon over the election preparedness and security measures. It was a short briefing, a diplomatic source told UNB. The first half of the briefing focused on preparations for the upcoming 13th national election and the second providing reassurance regarding the security of diplomatic missions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the briefing was organised to inform Diplomatic Missions in Dhaka about the updated preparations and security measures taken for the upcoming 13th national elections and referendum. In the briefing, they were also informed that the Election Commission would welcome foreign election observers and invited them to send election observers. They were also informed that the law enforcement forces of the country including the armed forces are on high alert and are working hard to maintain law and order. July Oikya blocks Rampura-Badda road over Hadi attack attempt In this context, the Missions were also assured of their security. About 40 diplomats stationed in Dhaka were present at the briefing. Earlier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs invited all heads of diplomatic missions and the UN Resident Coordinator's Office to attend the briefing session.  

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Thursday urged people of the country to pray for the recovery of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Osman Hadi who was shot in the head on December 10.  “You all please pray for our younger brother Osman Hadi so that he can recover and come back to us. Please also pray for him after Juma prayers tomorrow. Pray for him with sincerity,” he said while talking to reporters at the Secretariat . He also urged followers of other religions to pray for Hadi. Meanwhile, Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Abu Shadik Kayem on Monday demanded the resignation of the home adviser if three demands, including the arrest of those involved in the attempt to kill Osman Hadi, are not met. When journalists drew his attention to the progress in arresting those involved in the attack and to the resignation demand, the Home Adviser declined to make any comment

Chief Justice Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed paid a courtesy call on President Mohammed Shahabuddin at Bangabhaban on Wednesday. Shabbir Ahmed Akunjee, private secretary to the Public Division secretary at the President’s Office, shared the information with the media. During the meeting, the Chief Justice expressed his sincere gratitude to the President for his cooperation and support in discharging his constitutional duties. He also briefed the President on the key initiatives and activities undertaken during his tenure. President Shahabuddin praised the Chief Justice’s long and illustrious career, highlighting his professionalism, integrity and significant contributions to the establishment of justice and the rule of law.