United News of Bangladesh

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said the strong and decisive role of the Armed Forces has made the institution a symbol of the nation’s trust, expressing hope that this role will continue in the future. Tarique Rahman conveyed his message in a status posted on his verified Facebook page marking Armed Forces Day. “On the occasion of Armed Forces Day, I extend my sincere greetings and congratulations to all members of the Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force. I wish happiness, peace and well-being for all members of the Armed Forces and their families. On this day, I pray for the overall success, progress and development of the Armed Forces and for the eternal peace of the souls of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War,” he said. In his message, Tarique said “The Armed Forces of Bangladesh were formed on November 21, 1971, in the midst of the Liberation War. Since then, the day has been observed every year as Armed Forces Day, in honour of the brave contributions of our military forces to the liberation struggle and victory,” he said. The Armed Forces are a proud national institution forged through fearless courage, valour and steadfast discipline. Their heroic role on the battlefields of 1971 remains a shining chapter in our history, said Tarique Rahman. “The patriotic members of the Armed Forces continue to serve as vigilant guardians of our independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Their contribution to global peacekeeping has strengthened Bangladesh’s international standing and earned wide appreciation. I hope this role will continue in the years ahead. The strong and timely role of the Armed Forces in times of natural disasters and emergencies has made the institution a symbol of national trust.,” he said. “The proclaimer of our independence, former President and former Chief of Army Staff Shaheed Ziaur Rahman, undertook and implemented extensive programmes to develop the Bangladesh Armed Forces into a modern, technology-based, dynamic and efficient force in line with global standards. He transformed the Armed Forces into a well-trained and professional institution. Since the time of Shaheed President Zia, our Armed Forces have evolved into a disciplined, agile and modern force comparable to those of any advanced nation,” he added. Trivial argument turns fatal: BNP leader killed in Sylhet “During her tenure as Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia further strengthened and modernised the Armed Forces, enabling them to make significant contributions internationally. Our efforts to advance the Armed Forces will continue,” said the BNP leader. He also wished complete success for all programmes marking Armed Forces Day.  

BNP standing committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that journalists will be able to practise freer and more independent journalism if BNP forms the next government, reaffirming that the party has always stood for media freedom. “Ziaur Rahman broke the idea of Baksal’s four-state media outlets and created the first environment for journalists to work independently. Today’s journalism in Bangladesh stands on that foundation,” he said. Speaking at a discussion organised at the Jatiya Press Club on Thursday, Khosru said that BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman is also a strong advocate of independent journalism. “BNP has the mindset to accept any form of criticism. After August 5, a cartoon was drawn about Tarique Rahman. His response was that such freedom of journalists is the very reason we fought to end authoritarianism. That small statement is enough to understand BNP’s position on press freedom,” he said. He said BNP plans and ensures a question–answer session for journalists at every programme because the party wants politicians to always face accountability. Expressing concern over the upcoming national election, Khosru said, “There is an effort to derail the election, but the BNP is moving forward like a skilled navigator. There will be no scope to sabotage the polls.” He alleged that the current government has no connection with the people. “For 14–15 months, the country has been run by an unelected government. The bridge that should naturally exist between a government and the people simply does not exist here. The fears of the last 14–15 years have now taken a new form.” Khosru said the BNP does not indulge in empty political rhetoric. “People no longer want rhetoric; they want credible commitments. BNP will not give the people unrealistic promises.” Pointing to what he called ongoing smear campaigns against the BNP, he said the party is responding with democratic patience. “The language used to attack BNP is extremely low. If BNP responds, it would have to come down to that level — and BNP will not descend that low.” Comparing Ziaur Rahman to global historical leaders, Khosru said, “His comparison can be made with America’s George Washington. The qualities Washington demonstrated in war and governance — all of those existed in Ziaur Rahman. I am certain his name would be among the world’s top four or five political leaders.” He also said BNP aims to deliver not just political democracy but economic democracy so that the core benefits of democracy reach people.

Every future investment will be made in strict adherence to economic standards to ensure that taxpayers’ money is used for public welfare, BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said on Thursday. Khosru said that investments must be carefully evaluated, speaking at an event titled “Free Medical Services and Health Check-up Camp 2025” at Dhaka University. “We must move away from the culture of investing solely for the purpose of looting public funds. From now on, every investment must take public welfare into account,” he said. “If the BNP gets the opportunity to run the country, we will assess the return on investment, how welfare-oriented it is, and what environmental impact it may have—only then will we invest,” he added. Expressing disappointment over the state of healthcare facilities at Dhaka University, Khosru noted, “It is unfortunate that such a large university campus does not even have a pharmacy. This alone shows how indifferent universities are regarding healthcare.” He said the BNP plans to allocate up to 5 percent of GDP for the health and education sectors. “Health is a fundamental need. There is no scope to ignore it,” he said. Outlining the party’s health-sector priorities, Khosru said that if the BNP comes to power, preventive healthcare will be addressed first, followed by primary healthcare services. “Families spend Tk 5,000–10,000 every month on primary healthcare alone. To reduce this burden, primary healthcare will be made free for all citizens,” he added. Regarding the BNP’s promise of creating one crore (10 million) jobs within 18 months, Amir Khosru said the initiative involves extensive planning, training and monitoring. “People say we are ambitious. Yes, we are highly ambitious. Without ambition, a country cannot move forward,” he said.

BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Thursday said that only a caretaker government can ensure a free and fair national election, welcoming the restoration of the system as a positive development. Speaking to reporters after an event at Dhaka University on Thursday morning, Khosru said elections held under caretaker administrations in the past were “comparatively more acceptable,” adding that any limitations in the system could be resolved through reforms. “The most important thing is that there is a national consensus on the caretaker government. People have confidence in elections conducted under such a non-elected administration,” he said. On concerns over who should lead the caretaker government, the BNP leader said disagreements could be settled through dialogue. “Its limitations, characteristics and structure can all be finalised through discussions,” he added. Bangladesh's top court reinstates caretaker government system in Constitution Regarding the ongoing programmes of Jamaat-e-Islami and its eight Islamist allies, Khasru said their activities were their own political decisions. “There will always be differing opinions in a democracy. Tolerance is the beauty of democratic practice.” Asked about the National Citizen Party (NCP) wanting to nominate candidates who were not nominated by the BNP, Khosru said each political party has its own strategies. “BNP has nothing to say about this. But everyone should follow proper political norms.” He said the country needs an elected government to carry out essential national tasks. “People want elections now. They are eagerly waiting for it,” he added.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said Bangladesh cannot move forward unless women feel safe both online and offline, calling for urgent national actions to protect and empower women in the digital age. “Women must feel safe. Both online and offline, at home and in public, in their personal lives and in their professional journeys,” he  he said in a post on his varifed Facebook page.  Tarique shared the message on his 61st birthday, posting it along with a photograph of himself with his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and their only daughter Zaima Rahman. “It is undeniable that the digital world now shapes every part of our lives, from our daily routines to the way nations engage on the global stage. The speed at which technology has transformed both the world and Bangladesh is something none of us can ignore,” he said. Tarique said he and his wife often reflect on how different today’s world is for their daughter compared to the one they grew up in. “And like many parents and concerned citizens, we feel both hope and worry. The opportunities are greater than ever, but so are the threats.” “If Bangladesh is to move forward, our daughters, mothers, sisters, and colleagues cannot continue to live with fear,” he observed.  The BNP leader said every day, too many women face harassment, intimidation, bullying, and violence simply for speaking, working, studying, or trying to live freely. “This is not the Bangladesh we dream of. And it is not the future our young girls deserve.” He called for a national online safety system to allow women to report cyberbullying, threats, impersonation and leaked information quickly and easily.  “This would include a 24/7 hotline, an online portal and trained responders, while partnerships with major digital platforms could help ensure faster removal of abusive content in Bangla,” Tarique said.  Tarique Rahman calls for childcare plan to empower women He also emphasised the need for strong protection measures for women in public life, including journalists, students, activists and community leaders.  Tarique said no woman should be pushed out of public participation because of fear. The BNP leader wrote that digital safety education should be introduced in schools and universities so young people can navigate the online space with confidence. Trained teachers could act as “safety focal points”, supported by nationwide campaigns to raise awareness. At the community level, he said, safer transport routes, better street lighting, help desks and trauma-sensitive responders could make everyday life more secure for women. Tarique also called for a nationwide effort to increase women’s leadership by expanding mentoring networks, providing leadership training and improving access to childcare in workplaces, schools and offices.  “When women rise, the nation rises with them,” Tarique said, adding, "Whatever our politics, religion, ethnicity, or gender, one truth must unite us as Bangladeshis: A Bangladesh where women are safe, supported, and empowered is an unstoppable Bangladesh.Let us work together to make that future a reality, for our daughters, and for the generations yet to come,” he said.    

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has dismissed widespread social media speculation claiming that popular Islamic scholar Dr Mizanur Rahman Azhari has been nominated as the party’s candidate for Dhaka-5 (Jatrabari–Demra) in the upcoming national election. Rumours circulated from Wednesday afternoon through various Facebook posts and informal online channels suggesting that Azhari had replaced Jamaat’s previously declared candidate, Mohammad Kamal Hossain. The posts quickly gained traction, prompting many users to congratulate the preacher. However, Jamaat clarified that no such decision had been made. In a statement posted on the Jamaat Dhaka City South’s official Facebook page, the party said none of its previously nominated candidates in the region had been changed. The post reaffirmed the existing candidates— Syed Zainul Abedin for Dhaka-4, Mohammad Kamal Hossain for Dhaka-5, Dr Md Abdul Mannan for Dhaka-6, Hafiz Enayetullah for Dhaka-7, Dr Md Helal Uddin for Dhaka-8, Kabir Ahmed for Dhaka-9 and Md Jasim Uddin Sarkar for Dhaka-10. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday evening, Ehsan Mahbub Zubair, Jamaat’s Assistant Secretary General and head of its media wing, termed the claim about Azhari’s nomination “a rumour,” adding that there is “no possibility” of such a move. He urged the public to stay alert against misinformation and refrain from accepting or sharing any political-related claims without proper verification.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, along with seven other political parties, on Wednesday, has reaffirmed its demand for a referendum before national elections and announced a series of rallies in divisional cities across the country. The parties said they will organize rallies from November 30 to December 6, excluding Dhaka, to press for a referendum before the elections, creation of a level playing field, and other demands. The announcement came after a liaison committee meeting of the eight parties at the central office of Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis in Paltan, Dhaka. The briefing was led by senior Naeb Amir of Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis, Maulana Yusuf Ashraf. The eight parties participating in the movement include Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis, Khilafat Majlis, Nezame Islam Party, Bangladesh Khilafat Andolan, Bangladesh Development Party, and Jatiya Ganatantrik Party. Under the announced schedule, rallies will be held in Rangpur on November 30, Rajshahi on December 1, Khulna on December 2, Barisal on December 3, Mymensingh on December 4, Sylhet on December 5, and Chattogram on December 6. Senior leaders from the eight parties will address each rally. Newly appointed French Ambassador meets Jamaat Ameer Maulana Yusuf Ashraf said the alliance continues to insist on holding the referendum on a separate day and will campaign for public support to vote “Yes.” He added that while some demands, including implementing the death sentence verdict in the case of crimes against humanity and the July Charter’s orders, have been partially met, other demands—such as prosecuting other perpetrators of the July killings, banning anti-democratic forces including the Jatiya Party, and ensuring a level playing field in elections—remain unmet. Assistant Secretary General of Jamaat-e-Islami and liaison committee member Hamidur Rahman Azad, present at the briefing, emphasized that the alliance has not withdrawn its demands and urged the government to reconsider holding a referendum before the elections. He noted that their visit to the Election Commission earlier yielded no clear response, reflecting uncertainty about how the government plans to conduct both votes on the same day. Since September 18, the eight-party alliance has been pursuing a joint movement with five key demands and previously carried out nationwide programs in six phases. This latest announcement marks the seventh phase of their campaign.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP on Wednesday demanded the Election Commission to appoint returning officers (ROs) and assistant returning officers (AROs) from the EC’s own staff in the elections to bring a positive change in the country’s politics. “If you show courage once to take a decision that the returning officers and assistant returning officers would be appointed from the dedicated persons of your election commission, Bangladesh would witness a qualitative change in its politics,” said BNP Standing Committee member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan while leading a three-member BNP delegation in the pre-election dialogue arranged by the Election Commission at Nirbachan Bhaban in the city. The discussion was held with Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin in the chair as part of its ongoing dialogue with registered political parties ahead of the national election to be held in early February 2026. Besides, several other parties including Gonaodhikar Parishad, Nagorik Oikya and Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal-Basad Marxist attended the discussion. Noting that the country is going through a critical juncture and the EC’s role is vital now, Moyeen Khan urged the Commission to ensure the maximum utilisation of its manpower. He suggested the EC remain firm to utilise its authority for the sake of a fair election. “The EC must remain firm. The Constitution has given you the authority. There is no reason to be subservient. Religion must not be used for political purposes anywhere.” Moyeen Khan said the Commission is a constitutionally sanctified body. “All five of you (CEC and four election commissioners) are constitutionally sacrosanct persons. You say you are not subservient to the government,” he said.   About the compliance with the code of conduct, the BNP leader said following the code is not an issue of debate rather it is an obligation for political parties and candidates. “There is no scope for us to go beyond this code,” he said. However, Moyeen Khan criticised several sections of the election code, including the provision that requires candidates to give a written commitment to abide by the code. “The more you widen the net of rules and regulations, the more complicated things will become. Keep this thing simple. You need to motivate the people to be law-abiding citizens,” he said. Two other BNP delegation members are BNP Acting chairman’s adviser Mahdi Amin and EC’s former acting secretary Dr Mohammad Zakaria.

France’s newly appointed Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Seré-Charlet held a meeting with Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Wednesday. The meeting was held at the Jamaat chief’s Bashundhara office in Dhaka. The Ambassador was accompanied by Christian Beck, Political Counsellor at the French Embassy. From Jamaat-e-Islami, Secretary General and former MP Mia Golam Porwar, Central Executive Council member Mobarak Hossain, and the party chief’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs, Prof Dr Mahmudul Hasan, were present. During the discussion, both sides talked about Bangladesh’s political situation, the upcoming national election, the strengthening of democratic and constitutional institutions, human rights issues, and bilateral relations between Bangladesh and France. They also discussed trade and economic cooperation and prospects for enhanced partnership. Dr Shafiqur Rahman praised the longstanding diplomatic ties between France and Bangladesh and urged France to continue supporting Bangladesh’s overall development. Both sides expressed optimism that the friendly relations between the two nations would grow even stronger in the future.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will step into 61 on Thursday, but there will be no celebrations to mark the occasion. Tarique, the eldest son of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and the party's Chairperson Khaleda Zia, was born on 20 November 1965 in Bogura. Following his instructions, BNP has decided not to organise any events for his 61st birthday. On Tuesday, the party directed its leaders and activists not to arrange any programme or festival this year to celebrate the birthday of Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. “The birthday of the BNP’s Acting Chairman, Tarique Rahman, is on 20 November (Thursday). On this occasion, no lavish events or festivals, including cake cutting, putting up posters and banners, or holding discussion meetings, may be organised,” said a media release. The party also urged leaders and activists of all its units across the country, including Dhaka, not to violate this directive. At the age of 22, he became a member of the Gabtali Upazila BNP in Bogura district in 1988. He had been involved in politics even before formally joining the organisation. On 3 February 1994, Tarique married Dr Zubaida Rahman, the daughter of former Air Force Chief and former Communications and Agriculture Minister Rear Admiral Mahbub Ali Khan. Their only daughter, Zaima Rahman, completed her law degree at Queen Mary University of London. In 1988, Tarique founded the non-political social organisation ‘Ziaur Rahman Foundation’. He took part in the nationwide election campaign alongside his mother, Khaleda Zia, during the 1991 election. However, he was less active in politics afterwards, despite the BNP forming the government following that election. He played a significant role in the 2001 election campaign, during which the BNP won a landslide victory and formed the government. In 2002, following a decision by the BNP Standing Committee, Tarique Rahman was appointed Senior Joint Secretary General of the party. He rose to prominence through his extensive travels across the country to strengthen the party at the grassroots. Tarique went to London for medical treatment on 11 September 2008, and he has been living there with his family since then.  A large part of Tarique’s political life has been spent abroad, during which he faced numerous setbacks. He lost his brother, Arafat Rahman Koko, while in exile in London While in exile, he was elected Senior Vice-Chairman of the party during the BNP’s Fifth National Council in 2009. He was re-elected Senior Vice-Chairman during the Sixth National Council in 2016. Since the imprisonment of his mother and party Chairperson Khaleda Zia in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case on 8 February 2018, Tarique has been serving as the acting chairman of the BNP. On 11 September 2008, just eight days after being released from jail on bail, Tarique Rahman left for London for medical treatment under the military-backed caretaker government. He had been arrested on 7 March 2007 and released on bail on 3 September 2008. After the collapse of the Awami League government during last year’s mass uprising, he has frequently addressed various party programmes virtually, issued directives to party leaders and activists, and led the party from the UK. Party insiders said Tarique may return to Bangladesh in the first week of next month, ending his more than 17 years of exile in the UK.