United News of Bangladesh

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal Bala Nanda Sharma on Wednesday attended the state funeral of former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Begum Khaleda Zia A floral wreath was laid at the burial site of the mortal remains of late Khaleda Zia on behalf of the Foreign Minister and the Government of Nepal. Foreign Minister Sharma also met with the son of late Begum Zia and the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party Tarique Rahman and conveyed condolences to the latter on behalf of the Government and people of Nepal. Sharma noted that Begum Zia was a distinguished statesperson who played a significant role in Bangladesh’s political and democratic journey, according to the Nepalese Embassy in Dhaka. Rahman thanked Foreign Minister Sharma for paying his last respects at the funeral and expressed hope that the excellent friendship and cooperation between the two countries would continue to flourish in the days ahead.   In the afternoon, Foreign Minister Sharma called on the Chief Adviser of the Interim Government of Bangladesh Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. On the occasion, he handed over to the Chief Adviser a message from the Prime Minister of Nepal Sushila Karki, extending her deepest condolences on the demise of Begum Zia. In her message, the Prime Minister noted with gratitude the significant role Begum Zia played in strengthening Nepal-Bangladesh relations, particularly during her three tenures as the Prime Minister. Foreign Minister Sharma underscored that she would be remembered for her contributions to the growth and development of Bangladesh, and for her strong advocacy of regional cooperation and solidarity. The Chief Adviser expressed his gratitude for Nepal’s true friendship and its enduring support to the Government and people of Bangladesh ever since the country’s independence, including during the difficult times. Sri Lankan FM meets Tarique Rahman The two leaders also deliberated on the excellent state of Nepal-Bangladesh relationship and explored ways to further strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade, energy, connectivity, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Foreign Minister Sharma also held a meeting with Adviser for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh Md. Touhid Hossain and handed over to him a personal letter of condolences. Foreign Adviser Hossain thanked Foreign Minister Sharma for attending the funeral and expressed appreciation for the consistent support extended by the Government of Nepal on all occasions. The Foreign Minister is on a visit to Bangladesh from 30 December 2025 to 01 January 2026 to attend the state funeral of Begum Khaleda Zia. He will depart Dhaka for Kathmandu on Thursday afternoon.  

Sri Lankan foreign minister Vijitha Herath, who is currently visiting Dhaka, paid a courtesy call on BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday night. The meeting took place at around 8:30pm at the BNP Chairperson’s political office in Gulshan. Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dharmapala Weerakkody, accompanied the foreign minister during the meeting, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. During the discussion, he said the two sides exchanged views on issues related to mutual interest between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Khaleda's passing leaves irreplaceable void, but her vision, legacy will endure: Modi Sayrul said the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister expressed condolences on behalf of his country and conveyed sympathy to Tarique Rahman and his bereaved family over the death of his mother and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and the party’s Joint Secretary General Humayun Kabir were also present at the meeting.    

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that Begum Khaleda Zia’s passing has created an irreplaceable void, but her vision and legacy will endure. "I am confident that her ideals will be carried forward under your able leadership of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, and will continue to serve as a guiding light to ensure a new beginning and the enrichment of the deep and historic partnership between India and Bangladesh," he said in a letter to Begum Zia's son and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar handed over the personal letter from PM Modi to Tarique Rahman in Dhaka. At this moment of national mourning, PM Modi said his thoughts are also with the people of Bangladesh, who have shown remarkable strength and dignity throughout their history. "I am confident that they will continue to be guided by their shared values, democratic traditions, and a deep sense of national unity, as they move forward in peace and harmony," Modi said. The Indian Prime Minister said he was deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Tarique Rahman's mother. He warmly recalled his meeting and discussions with Begum Sahiba in Dhaka in June 2015. "She was a leader of rare resolve and conviction, and had the distinction of being the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh," said the Indian Prime Minister. Jaishankar hands over PM Modi’s personal letter to Tarique Rahman He said Khaleda made many important contributions to the development of Bangladesh, as well as to the strengthening of India-Bangladesh relations. "Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this profound personal loss. May her soul rest in eternal peace," Modi said. He prayed to the Almighty to grant Tarique Rahman and his family the strength and fortitude to overcome this difficult time. "I also extend my best wishes to you in your future endeavours," the letter reads.    

Fatema, longtime caregiver of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, and her family are grief-stricken following the leader’s death. Since 2010, Fatema has been devoted to serving Begum Zia, even accompanying her to prison when required. Her father, Rafizul Mia, said the family was almost speechless with sorrow after hearing the news, and the atmosphere at their home in Shahmadar village of Kachia Union, Bhola Sadar, is somber. Fatema, the eldest of two daughters, lost her husband shortly after marriage and moved to Dhaka with her five-year-old daughter and two-year-old son to seek livelihood. Through a relative, she began working as Begum Zia’s household caretaker in 2010 and has served the leader continuously for 16 years. End of an Era: Khaleda Zia rests beside Ziaur Rahman Rafizul Mia said he and his children traveled to Dhaka to attend Begum Zia’s funeral, praying for her soul’s salvation. Fatema’s children, Riamoni, who passed HSC from Nazir Rahman College in 2025, and two-year-old son Rifaat, preparing for SSC in 2026, said they have long been separated from their mother during 30 Eid celebrations. Despite the hardships, they feel proud of their mother for serving the national leader. Local BNP leaders expressed pride in Fatema’s dedication, noting her sacrifices in accompanying Begum Zia abroad and during imprisonment. “Begum Zia was like family to Fatema,” said Rafizul Mia.

In a landmark move to reform the insurance sector, the Insurance Development and Regulatory Authority (IDRA) has suspended the licenses of all individual agents in the non-life insurance category, effectively ending personal agent-based commissions. The decision comes into effect tomorrow, January 1, 2026. From the first day of the new year, non-life insurance companies will no longer have any legal basis to provide commissions to individual agents for securing business. The regulatory body issued a circular on December 23, 2025, announcing the suspension of all personal insurance agent licenses under non-life insurers. IDRA clarified that since these licenses will no longer be valid starting January 1, any payment of commissions or financial benefits to these individuals will be prohibited. The directive aligns with Section 58(1) of the Insurance Act, 2010, which states that no commission, remuneration, or honorarium can be paid to any person or institution other than an authorized insurance agent. By suspending these specific licenses, the authority is enforcing a stricter legal framework to curb financial irregularities. IDRA has warned that any insurance company found violating this directive by paying commissions to unauthorized individuals will face severe disciplinary action under existing insurance laws and regulations. All non-life insurers have been formally requested to ensure full compliance with the commission ban. Industry experts believe this move will reduce hidden costs and financial mismanagement within the sector. Besides, eliminate unhealthy competition. Strengthen institutional integrity. Move the industry toward a more professional and corporate-driven business model, said the IDRA.

Thousands of leaders, activists and local residents on Wednesday joined absentee funeral prayers for former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Chandpur. The prayers were held after Zuhr at the Asan Ali Government High School ground in Chandpur town, where a large crowd gathered to pay tribute to the veteran political leader. Leaders and supporters of various political parties, including the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP, Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and Islami Andolan Bangladesh, attended the prayers. Many participants were seen overcome with emotion, with several breaking down in tears during the service. Khaleda Zia’s janaza held with tears of lakhs of mourners Prior to the prayers, senior BNP leader Salimullah Selim, Safiuddin Ahmed, Hamid Master, Chandpur Press Club President Sohel Rushdi, district BNP leader Munir Chowdhury, district Ganoforum President Advocate Selim Akbar, as well as leaders of the Ganadhikar Parishad and NCP, addressed the gathering. They recalled Khaleda Zia’s political life and leadership, and prayed for the salvation of her soul.    

Tasnim Jara, the independent candidate for Dhaka-9 constituency, has assets worth some Tk 19.14 lakh and her annual income is Tk 7.14 lakh, according to the affidavit she submitted to the Election Commission ahead of the 13th National Parliament election. The affidavit shows that she is not a dual citizen her educational qualification is MSc, her permanent address is at Khilgaon Chowdhurypara in Dhaka and she is 31-year-old, born on October 7, 1994. Tasnim Jara mentioned her profession as physician, teacher and entrepreneur, while her spouse Khaled Saifullah is also the same by profession. Her cash amount is to Tk 16 lakh, while her spouse’s cash amount stands at Tk 15 lakh. Tasnim Jara has jewelry worth Tk 2.50 lakh. in her affidavit submitted to EC, said the amount of her assets worth Tk 19,13,509 and her annual income was Tk 7,13,597 as shown in her latest income tax returns.Tasnim Jara on Monday last submitted a nomination paper with nearly 5,000 signatures of voters to contest as an independent candidate from Dhaka-9 constituency (Khilgaon, Sabujbagh, and Mudga) in the upcoming national election. The Election Commission 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, 2026. According to the election schedule, the deadline for the submission of nomination papers was 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 time for the scrutiny of nomination papers is on December 30-January 4, while the appeals against the decisions of the returning officers can be filed from January 5 to 9 and the appeals will be settled from January 10 to 18.

Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves have surged to the $33 billion mark, reaching a three-year high, bolstered by a massive influx of remittances and strategic dollar purchases by the central bank. According to the latest data from the Bangladesh Bank, expatriate Bangladeshis sent $3.04 billion in the 29 days of December 2025. This robust inflow has provided critical support in easing the country’s ongoing dollar shortage and stabilizing the economy. The total gross reserves now stand at $33.18 billion, the highest level since 2022. For comparison, reserves had plummeted to $25.58 billion during the fall of the regime in August 2024. Under the IMF’s BPM6 manual calculation, the current reserves stand at $28.51 billion, which was $20.47 billion. Historical data show that Bangladesh’s reserves first crossed the $33 billion threshold in 2017, later peaking at a record $48 billion in 2021 before facing a steady decline. To maintain market stability and build a safety net, Bangladesh Bank so far purchased over $3.13 billion from commercial banks. The central bank purchased over $1 billion in December alone. Remittances hit $2.93 billion in 28 days of December Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur recently expressed optimism, stating that reserves are expected to reach between $34 billion and $35 billion by the end of December. "We are building our reserves by purchasing dollars from our own internal economy rather than relying on external loans from the IMF or other agencies," the Governor remarked, describing the strategy as a sustainable and "positive decision" for the nation’s financial health.

Bangladesh’s latest solar power procurement drive under the Public Procurement Act (PPA) and Rules (PPR) has emerged as largely unattractive to both foreign and local firms, raising fresh concerns over the country’s renewable energy transition, according to a study. The study, by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), conducted in partnership with the Australian High Commission in Dhaka, found that weak competition, stringent qualification criteria and limited risk mitigation measures have significantly dampened investor interest in solar power projects tendered since December 2024. As part of reform initiatives, the interim government repealed the Quick Enhancement of Electricity and Energy Supply (Special Provision) Act, 2010, bringing power and energy procurement fully under the PPA and PPR framework. Subsequently, the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources (MoPEMR) invited tenders for 55 solar power plants ranging from 10 MW to 250 MW in four lots. The CPD survey released on Tuesday, however, revealed that participation has been strikingly low. Of the 55 packages, 23 received only a single bid, while 13 failed to attract any bids at all. On average, just 1.4 bids were submitted per package. Titled ‘Renewable Energy Procurement under the Public Procurement Act and Rules: Enterprise Survey Findings on Transparency, Accountability, and Efficiency’, the study reviewed the regulatory provisions of the PPA (2006) and PPR (2008), monitored the procurement process for the newly launched solar packages and assessed them against international standards in the power sector. According to the findings, financial capacity requirements emerged as a major deterrent, particularly for local firms. Bidders are required to demonstrate access to liquid assets or credit facilities of at least USD 1.14 million per MW equivalent to USD 57.2 million for a 50 MW plant and USD 114.4 million for a 100 MW plant. While 61.1 per cent of foreign firms found the requirement manageable, 83.6 per cent of local firms said it was difficult to meet. The absence of sovereign guarantees further undermined investor confidence. As no Implementation Agreements are being signed for the solar projects, power purchase agreements lack sovereign backing, affecting bankability. About 68.4 per cent of firms said this negatively influenced their decision to participate. Big push for renewables: 220 MW Sonagazi solar plant gets green light Land acquisition responsibilities placed entirely on winning bidders also discouraged participation, the study noted, citing land scarcity and bureaucratic hurdles. Around 31.5 per cent of firms found this very discouraging, while 27.1 per cent described it as moderately discouraging. According to the study, technical and contractual terms were also flagged as problematic. A fixed annual generation requirement over a 20-year period for example, 109.5 million kilowatt-hours per year for a 50 MW plant was viewed as unrealistic by 76 per cent of firms, given solar panel degradation and fluctuating irradiation. Besides, a provision allowing contract termination with just 28 days’ notice was considered very problematic by nearly two-thirds of respondents. While 91.3 per cent of firms reported receiving tender-related information on time and 66.3 per cent said pre-bid queries were addressed promptly, perceptions worsened after bid submission. Half the firms expected decision-making to be slow, with over 20 per cent anticipating very slow procedures. Overall, 44.6 percent of firms rated the procurement process as inefficient and 18.5 per cent as very inefficient.   Among fully local firms, more than half described the process as inefficient or very inefficient, while all foreign firms surveyed characterised it as inefficient to varying degrees. Concerns were also raised about documentation and transparency, the study noted, citing only 40 per cent of firms found tender documents clear and complete, while many pointed to missing or insufficient technical specifications. Access to information was rated moderately easy by 44.8 percent of firms, though late publication and unavailability of documents on official websites were cited as recurring issues. On transparency, nearly 30 percent of bidders said the evaluation process was only slightly transparent, and 45.5 percent reported facing discrimination. All foreign firms that submitted bids said they experienced discrimination, compared to none among two-thirds of local firms. Despite these issues, a majority of firms, about 59 per cent rated overall transparency as moderate, neither good nor bad. Almost all foreign firms shared this assessment, while most joint ventures described transparency as poor, according to the CPD findings.   Without targeted reforms to procurement design, risk-sharing mechanisms and institutional capacity, Bangladesh’s ambition to scale up renewable energy, particularly solar, may remain constrained, despite policy intentions to improve governance under the PPA-PPR regime, the CPD study says.

Gold prices in the domestic market fell sharply on the last day of the year on Wednesday, with the price of 22-carat gold reduced by Tk 2,741 per bhori, according to the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS). Following the latest adjustment, the price of 22-carat gold has been fixed at Tk 224,182 per bhori (11.664 grams). The new rates will come into effect from the morning of January 1, 2026, BAJUS said in a notification issued in the evening. The jewellers’ body said the decision was taken after considering the overall market situation, particularly a decline in the price of pure gold (tejabi gold) in the local market. Under the revised prices, 21-carat gold will sell at Tk 214,034 per bhori, 18-carat gold at Tk 183,416 per bhori, while traditional method gold has been set at Tk 152,857 per bhori. BAJUS said that a mandatory 5 percent government-imposed VAT and a minimum 6 percent making charge set by the association must be added to the selling price. However, making charges may vary depending on the design and quality of jewellery. Earlier, on December 29, BAJUS had last adjusted gold prices, cutting the rate by Tk 2,508 per bhori and fixing the price of 22-carat gold at Tk 226,923. With the latest revision, gold prices have been adjusted a total of 93 times in the country this year—raised on 64 occasions and reduced 29 times. Despite the fall in gold prices, silver rates remained unchanged in the local market. The price of 22-carat silver stands at Tk 6,065 per bhori. Meanwhile, 21-carat silver is selling at Tk 5,774 per bhori, 18-carat at Tk 4,957 per bhori, and traditional silver at Tk 3,732 per bhori. So far this year, silver prices have been adjusted 13 times, increasing 10 times and decreasing only three times. Last year, silver prices were revised just three times. On the international market, spot gold was trading above USD 4,330 per ounce (28.34 grams) on Wednesday. Gold prices reportedly saw a steep decline in a single day, although overall prices remained elevated. Despite the year-end dip, global gold prices stayed on an upward trajectory throughout 2025, rising by more than 65 percent year-on-year. In December alone, gold prices increased by around 4.5 percent.

Police have arrested another accused, who allegedly hanged the body of Dipu Chandra Das from tree after his death in a lynch-mob attack, from Gazipur district in connection in Bhaluka upazila of Mymensingh district on December 18. The arrestee was identified as Nibir Islam Anik, 20, son of Kalimullah of Trishal upazila in Mymensingh district. Police arrested Nibir from Cherag Ali area of Tongi in Gazipur district around 5:30 pm on Tuesday, said Additional Superintendent (Administration) of Mymensingh Police, Abdullah Al Mamun. In a video footage, Nibir was found hanging the body of Dipu and set it on fire after his death, he said. On Wednesday, police produced him before a court seeking a seven-day remand. Police said videos and images spread after the incident showed a man wearing a white shirt pulling Dipu up a tree with a rope. After analysing footage collected from social media the investigation team identified Nibir. Police also said he had been absent from his workplace since the incident. With this the number of arrestees in this connection rose to 19. Dipu Chandra Das, 28, a local garment worker, was beaten to death by a mob over alleged blasphemy in Bhaluka Upazila of Mymensingh district on December 18.

Wall Street drifted lower in light trading early Wednesday as investors prepared for the final opening bell of 2025, heading toward a fourth straight day of losses after a year marked by strong gains alongside lingering uncertainty. Futures for the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average each eased 0.1 percent, while Nasdaq futures fell 0.2 percent. Trading was expected to remain muted as most institutional investors have already wrapped up their positions for the year. US markets will remain closed on Thursday for New Year’s Day. Despite the late-year softness, 2025 proved to be a banner year for equities. The S&P 500 is up more than 17 percent for the year, driven largely by enthusiasm around artificial intelligence and its potential to transform multiple sectors of the economy. That enthusiasm, however, has also fueled concerns. Investors worry that artificial intelligence may not generate enough profits and productivity gains to justify the massive investments poured into the sector. Such doubts have kept pressure on leading AI-related stocks such as Nvidia and Broadcom, which accounted for a large share of this year’s market gains. Valuation concerns extend beyond AI. Many analysts argue that stocks across the broader market remain expensive, as share prices have risen faster than corporate profits. Adding to investor caution is the continued impact of a wide-ranging, US-led trade war, which threatens to push inflation higher. Although the Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate three times toward the end of the year, inflation remains well above the central bank’s 2 percent target. The Fed has said the rate cuts were partly motivated by concerns over a softening labor market. Later Wednesday, the Labor Department is set to release its latest weekly data on jobless claims, a closely watched indicator of layoffs. Minutes from the Fed’s December meeting showed divisions among policymakers and highlighted uncertainty over economic risks ahead. Markets are widely expecting the central bank to keep interest rates unchanged at its January meeting. Sung Won Sohn, a professor of finance and economics at Loyola Marymount University, said global markets are facing growing uncertainty due to inflation pressures, labor shortages and questions about the future path of interest rates. He said central banks need to move cautiously and warned that financial markets are likely to remain volatile as expectations continue to shift. In commodities trading, precious metals remained volatile. Silver fell sharply, giving up more than 8 percent early Wednesday after posting double-digit gains a day earlier. Despite the swings, silver is still up more than 140 percent this year. Gold slipped 1.5 percent but remains up about 66 percent in 2025. In global markets, trading was closed in Germany, Japan and South Korea for New Year holidays. Elsewhere, France’s CAC 40 fell 0.5 percent and Britain’s FTSE 100 lost 0.2 percent. In Asia, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index dropped 0.9 percent, while China’s Shanghai Composite edged up 0.1 percent. Taiwan’s Taiex gained 0.9 percent and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 dipped slightly. In energy markets, US crude oil rose 31 cents to $58.26 a barrel, while Brent crude added 28 cents to $61.61. Even so, oil prices remain sharply lower for the year, with crude down about 19 percent since January. US gasoline prices have also fallen by around 6 to 7 percent nationwide.

The Dhaka University (DU) Metro Rail Station was temporarily closed from 7:00 pm on Wednesday due to security measures ahead of Thirty-first Night celebrations. The Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) said in a statement that the closure was implemented following a special request from Dhaka University authorities. DU in mourning over death of Begum Khaleda Zia As a result, metro trains will not stop at the DU station from 7:00 pm until the end of service for the day. Trains departing from Shahbagh will run directly to the Jatiya Press Club–Secretariat station without stopping at DU. DMTCL confirmed that services at all other stations will continue as usual, with operations concluding at 10:10 pm in line with the regular schedule.

A high-level delegation from Bhutan, led by Lyonpo DN Dhungyel, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, paid respects at the state funeral of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka on Wednesday, following a royal command from the King. The delegation, comprising senior officials from the Bhutanese government, participated in prayers and other ceremonial proceedings, reflecting Bhutan’s formal condolences and respect for the late political leader. Condolence messages from the King, the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the Prime Minister were handed over to BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, son of the late Khaleda Zia, by Lyonpo DN Dhungyel. On behalf of the people and the government of Bhutan, Lyonpo DN Dhungyel offered condolences to the people and the government of Bangladesh.

President Donald Trump is not the first US president to want more space at the White House for entertaining guests, according to the longest serving top aide in the executive residence, lending support to Trump’s justification for building a new ballroom. Gary Walters, who served more than two decades as White House chief usher under presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, said every president he worked with raised concerns about the limited space for hosting large events. “All the presidents that I had an opportunity to serve always talked about some possibility of an enlarged area” for entertaining, Walters said in an interview with The Associated Press, referring to his recently published memoir. Trump has spoken for years about building a ballroom at the White House, even before entering politics. In July, the White House announced plans for a 90,000 square foot ballroom on the east side of the complex, initially designed to seat 650 guests at an estimated cost of $200 million. Trump has said the project will be funded through private donations, including his own. The Republican president later increased the proposed capacity to 999 guests. By October, the two story East Wing of the White House was demolished to make way for the project, and in December Trump revised the estimated cost to $400 million, double the original figure. The demolition of the East Wing alarmed historians and preservationists, but Walters said construction and demolition have long been part of the White House’s history. He noted that earlier structures such as conservatories, greenhouses and stables were removed to build the West Wing in 1902, while the residence itself was expanded with a third floor and later the East Wing during World War II. “There’s always been construction going on around the White House,” Walters said. Walters said that when a new president took office, one of his first discussions with the president, first lady and social secretary focused on how many people the White House could accommodate. He noted that even at full capacity, the State Dining Room can seat about 130 guests for a state dinner, while the East Room can hold roughly 300 chairs, fewer if space is needed for television equipment. Trump has frequently complained that both rooms are too small and has also criticized the long standing practice of using large tents on the South Lawn for major events. Walters said the tents created problems, particularly during rain, and often damaged the grass, requiring repeated reseeding. While Walters acknowledged it was jarring to see the East Wing torn down, he said he had fond personal memories of the space. He met his wife, Barbara, at the White House, where she worked in the East Wing as a receptionist during the Nixon and Ford administrations. The couple recently marked 48 years of marriage. Walters’ long White House career began by chance after he broke an ankle in 1970 while serving with the Executive Protective Service, a forerunner of the US Secret Service. Unable to perform regular patrol duties, he was assigned to a control and appointments center inside the White House, a move he later said changed the course of his career. After joining the Usher’s Office in 1976, Walters rose to become chief usher under President Reagan a decade later, overseeing maintenance, construction, renovations, food service and a staff of about 90 employees. He retired in 2007 after 37 years at the White House, including a record 21 years as chief usher, having served under seven presidents from Richard Nixon to George W. Bush.

China has said BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s important contributions to promoting Bangladesh-China friendship and the bilateral relationship will forever be remembered. “Khaleda Zia is an old and dear friend of Chinese people and long committed to China-Bangladesh friendship,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian. He said China expresses deep condolences over the passing of Khaleda Zia and heartfelt sympathies to the interim government of Bangladesh and Khaleda’s family. While in office as the prime minister of Bangladesh, the Spokesperson said, she made active efforts to develop Bangladesh-China ties and the two countries established the comprehensive partnership of cooperation featuring long-term friendship, equality and mutual benefit. Khaleda Zia was laid to rest beside her husband and late President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital on Wednesday afternoon. She was buried around 4:30 pm with state honour following her namaz-e-janaza at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Members of her family, high-ranking state officials, government authorities, foreign guests, diplomats and BNP-nominated politicians were present. Khaleda Zia was given a guard of honour under the supervision of the President Guard Regiment (PGR) before her burial. On behalf of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, his Military Secretary, Major General Abul Hasnat Mohammad Tariq, placed a wreath at the grave of Khaleda Zia.

BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan on Wednesday alleged that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would never be able to evade responsibility for the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. “On February 8, 2018, Khaleda Zia walked into jail on her own feet after being subjected to personal vengeance of fascist Hasina. But she came out of prison seriously ill,” he said while speaking at Manik Mia Avenue shortly before Khaleda Zia’s namaz-e-janaza.  Nazrul Islam said Khaleda’s prolonged imprisonment, denial of proper medical treatment and restrictions on treatment abroad had severely damaged her health and ultimately led to her death. “According to doctors at home and abroad, her illness worsened because she was denied the opportunity to receive treatment overseas during four years of house arrest. As a result, this unconquerable leader eventually succumbed to death. So, the fascist Hasina will never be free of responsibility for this death,” he said. Khaleda’s body was taken to a temporary stage set up at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad around 2:45pm for her janaza. Later, Nazrul Islam Khan read out a brief life sketch of Khaleda Zia on behalf of the party. He explained the circumstances that led her to enter politics and highlighted her long struggle for democracy, her unwavering commitment to democratic values and her deep patriotism. The BNP leader also recalled her contributions to the country and urged everyone to pray for her departed soul. Inspiration Against Fascism Nazrul said Khaleda Zia never bowed before any domestic or foreign force, nor did she compromise on democracy, freedom of expression or voting rights, despite facing repeated repression. “She was jailed during the rule of autocrat Hussein Muhammad Ershad, during the so-called 1/11 regime and again under Sheikh Hasina,” he said. The BNP leader said Khaleda was evicted from her residence linked to the memory of her martyred husband, late President Ziaur Rahman, and sentenced to 17 years in prison on what he described as false charges. “Yet she never compromised with authoritarian politics. This is why she became an enduring inspiration in the struggle against fascism,” Nazrul said. He said Khaleda Zia was now being bid farewell amid the love, respect and prayers of millions of people. “Those who sent her to jail and made her homeless could not live in peace and were forced to flee,” he said referring to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted in a mass uprising on August 5, 2024, and forced to seek refuge in India. Political Journey Nazrul said Khaleda Zia joined BNP on January 3, 1982, to keep the morale of party leaders and activists intact after the assassination of President Ziaur Rahman in 1981. “She began her tireless political journey at a time of national crisis…the entry of Begum Khaleda Zia into politics was sudden, but it was inevitable in the interest of the country,” he said. Despite being the party founder’s wife, Nazrul said Khaleda Zia rose through its ranks constitutionally, first as a primary member, then vice-chairperson, acting chairperson and later elected chairperson through the party council. Of her 43-year political life, he said, she led BNP for 41 years as its top leader, strengthening and organising the party. Role in Restoring Democracy Nazrul said Khaleda Zia led a continuous nine-year movement against Ershad’s military rule and restored democracy through a free, fair and neutral election in 1991. “For this, the nation honoured her with the title ‘Uncompromising Leader’,” he said. The BNP leader noted that she served as prime minister three times and won all parliamentary seats she contested, describing her electoral success as rare both nationally and internationally. “She was the first woman prime minister of Bangladesh and the second in the Muslim world,” he said. ‘Pray for my mother,’ Tarique urges all from Khaleda’s janaza     Governance and Legacy Nazrul said Khaleda Zia introduced landmark programmes for public welfare, including female education stipends, the ‘Food for Education’ programme, and separate ministries for expatriates and freedom fighters. He said Bangladesh gained international recognition as an “emerging tiger” during her tenure. “She used to say, ‘We have friends abroad, not masters,’” Nazrul recalled. Contributions to Liberation War Nazrul said during the 1971 Liberation War, Khaleda Zia was detained by Pakistani forces along with her two young sons from July 2 until victory, while her husband declared independence and served as a sector and forces commander. “The contribution of this family to the Liberation War is unparalleled,” he said. Final Farewell Nazrul said Khaleda Zia used to say Bangladesh was her only address, as she had no home outside the country. “She breathed her last on this soil and will rest forever beside her martyred husband. He expressed his confidence that BNP will move forward under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, following Khaleda Zia’s ideals of democracy, peace, development and public welfare. Bidding farewell to Khaleda, the BNP Standing Committee member said, “She is departing with the respect, love and prayers of the entire nation, regardless of political affiliation. She leaves behind the unique legacy of a great woman, a fighter in politics and a patriotic stateswoman—an example that will remain a guiding inspiration for future generations of political leaders and activists.” Nazrul thanked the Chief Adviser, members of the advisory council, political leaders, chiefs of the three services, law enforcement agencies and all those involved in maintaining security and discipline during the funeral. Begum Khaleda Zia passed away early Tuesday morning at Evercare Hospital at the age of 80 after suffering from multiple critical health complications.

Yemen’s anti-Houthi coalition is facing renewed instability following a sharp political rift involving Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and rival Yemeni factions, raising concerns over further fragmentation of the war-torn country. The latest crisis erupted after Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) Chairman Rashad al-Alimi ordered UAE forces to withdraw from Yemen, canceled a joint defense arrangement and declared emergency measures, including a temporary embargo and plans for Saudi-backed forces to take control of military camps in eastern provinces. The move was presented as a step to protect national security. However, the decision was swiftly rejected by other PLC members, notably the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC). The STC and several council members said the PLC is a collective authority and accused al-Alimi of making unilateral and illegal decisions. They reaffirmed the UAE’s role as a key partner in fighting the Houthis, counterterrorism and securing maritime routes. The political fallout coincided with Saudi-led airstrikes on the port of Mukalla and unusually public accusations between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi. Saudi Arabia alleged the UAE supplied weapons to separatist forces without authorization, a claim denied by the UAE, which said the equipment was meant for its own forces and coordinated with coalition partners. At the heart of the dispute are Yemen’s oil-rich eastern provinces of Hadramout and Al-Mahrah, which hold strategic ports and border areas critical to Saudi security. STC forces recently expanded their presence in these regions, heightening tensions with Saudi-backed units. Analysts say the crisis exposes deeper structural divisions within the anti-Houthi camp, where competing regional agendas and local ambitions have long coexisted uneasily. While Saudi Arabia prioritizes border security and stability, the STC continues to push for greater autonomy or independence for southern Yemen. With troop movements reported and political unity eroding, the standoff risks escalating into open confrontation, further weakening the anti-Houthi coalition and complicating efforts to stabilize Yemen after more than a decade of conflict.

China on Wednesday rejected criticism from Japan and several other countries over recent military drills around Taiwan, calling the remarks irresponsible and hypocritical. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Japan, Australia, some European Union institutions and European countries ignored separatist activities linked to “Taiwan independence” and external interference in China’s internal affairs, while blaming Beijing for actions taken to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Lin stressed that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and that the Taiwan issue is purely an internal matter that allows no foreign interference. He said the biggest threats to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait stem from separatist actions and backing from external forces. The spokesperson said the one-China principle is widely recognized by the international community and forms the political basis of China’s diplomatic relations with 183 countries. He added that Japan, Australia and relevant European nations made clear commitments to this principle when establishing ties with China. China urged the countries concerned to honor their commitments, stop interfering in its internal affairs, and refrain from supporting separatist activities related to Taiwan.

Mali and Burkina Faso announced late Tuesday that they will bar United States citizens from entering their countries, in retaliation for US President Donald Trump’s decision to restrict the entry of Malian and Burkinabe nationals into the United States. The decisions were announced in separate statements by the foreign ministries of the two West African nations, reflecting growing tensions between military-led governments in the region and Washington. On Dec 16, Trump extended existing US travel restrictions to 20 additional countries, including Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, all governed by juntas that have withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States. Mali’s Foreign Ministry said the move was based on the principle of reciprocity, adding that the government would immediately impose the same conditions and requirements on US citizens as those applied to Malian nationals seeking entry to the United States. Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré issued a similar statement, saying the ban on American nationals was taken for the same reasons. The White House has cited ongoing attacks by armed groups as one of the grounds for the travel restrictions. Mali and Burkina Faso have faced persistent violence from militant groups, a key factor behind the military coups that brought the current juntas to power after the overthrow of civilian governments amid worsening insecurity.

Guinea’s junta leader Gen Mamdi Doumbouya was declared the winner of the country’s presidential election held over the weekend, according to partial results released late Tuesday, marking the first vote since the 2021 military takeover. The General Directorate of Elections said Doumbouya secured 86.72 percent of the votes counted so far. Analysts had widely expected his victory, citing a weakened opposition ahead of Sunday’s poll. The election was seen as an effort to legitimize Doumbouya’s continued rule and conclude a transition process launched after he ousted President Alpha Condé four years ago. Critics say the junta leader has suppressed dissent and opposition, leaving him without serious challengers among the eight other candidates. More than 50 political parties were dissolved, while prominent opposition figures were either barred from contesting on technical grounds or were living in exile following the crackdown. Yéro Baldé, a former education minister under Condé, finished a distant second with 6.51 percent of the vote. Election officials said turnout stood at 80.95 percent among Guinea’s 6.7 million registered voters. After taking power, Doumbouya had pledged that he and other military officers would not contest elections. However, a referendum held in September paved the way for officers to run and extended the presidential term from five to seven years. Despite its rich mineral resources, Guinea remains deeply affected by poverty and food insecurity, with about half of its 15 million people facing hardship, according to the World Food Program. The junta has placed strong emphasis on the Simandou iron ore project, a major mining venture largely backed by Chinese investment. Production began last month after years of delays, with authorities hoping it will generate jobs and spur wider economic growth. Guinea is among several West African nations to experience coups or attempted coups since 2020, amid public frustration over insecurity, weak economies and disputed elections.

Russian drones targeted apartment buildings and energy infrastructure in southern Ukraine’s Odesa overnight, injuring six people, including a toddler and two other children, officials said Wednesday. Oleh Kiper, head of the regional military administration, said four apartment buildings were damaged in the attacks. Power company DTEK reported significant damage to two of its facilities and noted that 10 electricity substations in Odesa region had been damaged in December alone. Russia has intensified long-range attacks on Ukrainian cities this year, increasingly targeting energy infrastructure to disrupt heat and water supplies during winter. From January to November, over 2,300 Ukrainian civilians were killed and more than 11,000 injured, a 26% rise compared to the same period in 2024, according to the United Nations. Kiper described the Odesa strikes as “further evidence of the enemy’s terror tactics, which deliberately target civilian infrastructure.” Moscow has claimed that Ukraine attempted to attack Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residence with 91 long-range drones late Sunday and early Monday, a claim denied by Ukrainian officials. Maj. Gen. Alexander Romanenkov of the Russian air force said the drones launched from Sumy and Chernihiv regions, but independent verification was not possible. The EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas dismissed the Russian allegations as a “deliberate distraction” from peace talks. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Romania and Croatia have joined a NATO-backed fund to buy U.S. weapons for Ukraine, bringing the total contributions to $4.3 billion since August. Ukraine’s air force reported that 127 Russian drones were fired overnight, with 101 intercepted, while Russia said 86 Ukrainian drones were shot down over Russian territory, the Black Sea, and annexed Crimea. An oil refinery in Russia’s southern Krasnodar region caught fire from a Ukrainian drone strike but was quickly extinguished, local authorities said.

A renewed deep-sea search for Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 began Wednesday in the southern Indian Ocean, more than a decade after the jet vanished with 239 people on board. Malaysia’s Transport Ministry said the search vessel Armada 86 05, equipped with two autonomous underwater vehicles, arrived at a designated search area after preparing in Fremantle Port, Western Australia. The location of the operation was not disclosed. While the statement did not explicitly name Ocean Infinity, the Texas-based marine robotics firm previously involved in the search, the vessel specified is widely identified as belonging to the company. Ocean Infinity confirmed it is resuming the search under a “no-find, no-fee” agreement, citing the sensitive nature of the operation. The company has upgraded its technology and narrowed the search zone to the most probable crash site. MH370 disappeared from radar on March 8, 2014, shortly after departing Kuala Lumpur for Beijing. Satellite data showed the plane diverted south toward the remote Indian Ocean, where investigators believe it crashed. Previous multinational searches failed to locate the main wreckage, though debris later washed ashore along the East African coast and Indian Ocean islands.

Turkish authorities continued nationwide operations against suspected Islamic State members Wednesday, detaining 125 people in coordinated raids across 25 provinces. The raids follow a week of large-scale operations aimed at preventing attacks during Christmas and New Year festivities. Last Monday, suspected IS militants opened fire on police in Yalova province, killing six suspects and three officers, while wounding eight other officers and a night guard. Authorities said all militants were Turkish citizens. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said the operations, conducted by police and gendarmerie forces, included major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, and Yalova. He vowed that those targeting Turkey’s unity and values would face the full power of the state. Turkey has carried out similar anti-IS sweeps in previous years amid a global resurgence of the group, including recent attacks in Australia and strikes on U.S. forces in Syria. U.S. Central Command said nearly 25 IS operatives were killed or captured in Syria this month, while Syrian forces recently captured a local IS leader and killed a senior commander near Damascus.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday urged the people of Bangladesh to pray for his late mother and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, and asked forgiveness on her behalf if she had ever hurt anyone. Addressing a sea of mourners at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad complex shortly before her namaz-e-janaza, Tarique said, “I am Tarique Rahman, the elder son of the late Begum Khaleda Zia. If my mother had taken any loan from anyone during her lifetime, I request you to contact me. I will arrange repayment, Insha’Allah.” He further said, “If anyone was hurt by any of her actions or words during her lifetime, I sincerely seek forgiveness on behalf of the departed. Please pray that Allah Almighty grants her Jannah.” Tarique delivered the very brief and simple address at around 2:58pm, speaking emotionally, like any son of an ordinary Muslim family, as part of funeral formalities.

Bulgaria becomes the 21st country to adopt the euro on New Year’s Day, marking a milestone in its European Union integration, even as many citizens express concern over potential price increases and economic instability. Supporters view the switch from the lev as a major achievement since the country’s 1989 transition from a Soviet-style economy to democracy and free markets. They hope euro adoption will attract investors and strengthen ties with wealthier Western European nations. Yet public confidence remains low. Inflation has rebounded to 3.7%, and surveys indicate about half of Bulgarians oppose joining the euro. Political instability has compounded worries: the government resigned after less than a year amid anti-corruption protests, leaving Bulgaria without a full budget and ahead of its eighth election in five years. Some citizens, like 64-year-old Nevelin Petrov, welcome the euro as a step toward long-term prosperity, while others, such as Sofia pedicure salon owner Darina Vitova, caution that rising prices and low incomes may make daily life harder despite the convenience of a shared currency with EU neighbors. Economists note that immediate economic changes may be modest, since the lev has been pegged to the euro since 1999. Analysts also say euro adoption could strengthen Bulgaria’s European integration and reduce Russian influence, while offering a signal to investors about the country’s commitment to EU standards, though political uncertainty may temper that effect. Dual use of the lev and euro will continue throughout January, but all change will be given in euros.

Trains were running again Wednesday in both directions through the Channel Tunnel between continental Europe and the United Kingdom but problems remained after a day of travel chaos caused by power malfunctions. Eurotunnel, the tunnel operator, said the 50-kilometer (32-mile) undersea link was back to “full capacity” following overnight repairs to the electrical fault. The company did not provide details on the cause of the outage. Eurostar, which operates passenger trains through the tunnel, warned travelers of ongoing “knock-on impacts” from Tuesday’s disruption. Its website reported delays on routes between London and Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, along with early-morning cancellations. Another related power incident on the U.K. side Tuesday affected passengers aboard three trains. An overhead cable fell on a Eurostar train from London to Paris, and moving the stranded train proved “very complex,” Eurostar said. Passenger Ghislain Planque described an 11-hour journey that should have taken 90 minutes, saying travelers endured darkness, no heating, no air-conditioning, and no way to charge phones during the ordeal.

Australia’s Auckland welcomed 2026 with a downtown fireworks display launched from the city’s landmark Sky Tower, making it the first major city to mark the new year despite rainy weather. The five-minute show featured 3,500 fireworks from various floors of the 240-meter tower, while smaller community events across New Zealand’s North Island were canceled due to forecasts of rain and thunderstorms. Australia’s east coast marked the new year two hours later under heavy security following the country’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly three decades. Police monitored crowds at Sydney Harbor Bridge as attendees observed a minute of silence for the Dec. 14 victims, with Premier Chris Minns urging residents to attend and show defiance against terrorism. Indonesia and Hong Kong scaled back celebrations out of respect for recent disasters. Jakarta and Makassar held subdued programs with prayers and cultural events, while Hong Kong replaced fireworks with light shows and concerts. Other parts of Asia observed traditional New Year customs, including bell-ringing ceremonies in Tokyo and Seoul. In Berlin, snowfall greeted the new year as residents and tourists-built snowmen and took selfies near landmarks.

A severe cold wave swept parts of Bangladesh on the last day of the year, disrupting normal life and causing hardship. According to Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD,) Gopalganj recorded 7.5 degrees Celsius at 6 am on Wednesday, marking the lowest temperature this season. A mild to moderate cold wave is affecting Khulna and Barishal divisions as well as Madaripur, Gopalganj, Rajshahi, Pabna, and Sirajganj districts. Weather is expected to remain dry with temporary partly cloudy sky in most areas. Moderate to dense fog may occur in many parts of the country from midnight to morning, potentially continuing until noon, which could temporarily disrupt air navigation, inland river transport, and road communication, said a Met office bulletin. Night temperatures are likely to remain steady, while daytime temperatures may rise slightly though foggy condition will sustain the cold feeling. In Gopalganj, dense fog and the prolonged cold spell have brought daily activities to a near halt, especially in Kotalipara upazila. For the past five days, thick fog has blocked sunlight, forcing day labourers stary indoors and delaying farm work. Farmers have raised concerns that the cold is affecting Boro paddy cultivation in low-lying, single-crop farmlands. Abu Sufian, an observer at Gopalganj Meteorological Office, said morning humidity reached 97 percent, intensifying the chill. Though temperatures eased slightly after noon, the cold has hit low-income groups the hardest. Daily wage earners struggle to survive outdoors, livestock and poultry are affected, and children and the elderly are increasingly falling ill, he added. Many van pullers and labourers were seen lighting small roadside fires to stay warm. Van driver Shukur Ali, 50, said, “Even in this bitter cold, I have come out with my van to earn a living. But there are no passengers. People are staying home unless absolutely necessary.” Kotalipara Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Kumar Mridul Das said cases of diarrhoea, pneumonia, coughs, breathing difficulties, and fever have increased, particularly among children and the elderly. “Patient pressure has increased at health centres while limited manpower is making it difficult to provide services,” he added. In Rajshahi, the mercury dropped to 8.4 degrees Celsius at 6 am on Wednesday, the season’s lowest in the district. Rajib Khan, an observer at Rajshahi Meteorological Office, said icy northern winds intensified from Tuesday evening and may continue for several days. The city experienced three consecutive days without sunshine, worsening the cold amid dense fog. Labourers and homeless people were seen burning straw and other materials to stay warm while cold-related illnesses surged at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. Sylhet residents also felt the winter chill, with temperatures falling to around 12 degrees Celsius. Dense fog blanketed the city, keeping the sun hidden until noon. Rudra Talukder, Deputy Assistant Meteorologist at Sylhet Meteorological Office, said temperatures stood at 12.5 degrees Celsius Wednesday morning and are expected to remain similar, with partly cloudy sky forecast in the coming days. In Chuadanga, southwestern Bangladesh, temperatures fell to eight degrees Celsius at 9:00 am, disrupting normal life. The local met office said the moderate cold wave is likely to persist for another couple of days.

Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Wednesday met BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and conveyed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Pakistani President, Prime Minister, Field Marshal and people of Pakistan over the sad demise of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Sadiq handed over a letter from Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to the BNP Acting Chairman. During the meeting, he recalled Khaleda Zia’s remarkable political leadership and noted her vital role in promoting historical affinities, mutual respect and cooperation between our two nations.

At the gate of Majumdar Bari in Fulgazi, Feni, a neem tree planted decades ago by BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia still stands, quietly preserving a living memory of her ties to the ancestral home. Back in 2008, during a visit to her ancestral house, Majumdar Bari at Shreepur village of Fulgazi Upazila, Khaleda Zia planted a neem tree on the banks of the South Shreepur Dighi pond. Over the years, the tree grew under careful care and a tile bearing her name was placed at its base. Today, the tree stands as a silent tribute to her presence. Khaleda Zia, former three-time Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson, passed away on Tuesday (December 30) at 6:00 am while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Upon hearing the news of her passing on Tuesday morning, the residents of Fulgazi were seen weeping openly. At her ancestral home, people gathered near the neem tree, taking photographs, remembering her as a living part of Majumdar Bari. For them, even in her absence, the tree serves as a lasting memory of Khaleda Zia. Majumdar Bari holds numerous personal relics of Khaleda Zia’s life—the chairs she sat on, a small cot she used for rest, and the dining table, all bearing the mark of her touch. Farewell to a leader; Khaleda Zia laid to rest with state honour Neigbours and family members recall that during her 2008 visit, Khaleda Zia also paid respects at the grave of her grandfather Salamat Ali Majumdar before beginning her election campaign. Her cousin, Shamim Hossain Majumdar, said, “She always showed respect to elders and gave immense affection to the young ones. The nation has lost an irreplaceable leader. This loss can never be filled.” Khaleda Zia also contributed to her ancestral area by establishing several institutions, including madrashas, mosques, schools and colleges for people. Her death has cast a shadow of mourning in Fulgazi and the entire Feni district. According to BNP’s website, Khaleda Zia was born to Iskandar Majumder and Taiyaba Majumder on August 15, 1945, in Dinajpur district. She is the fourth among her four sisters and two brothers. Throughout her leadership of BNP, Khaleda Zia earned respect not only from her followers but also across political parties. Analysts describe her as a unifying figure, a champion of democracy, and a symbol of perseverance who transformed Bangladesh’s political landscape, paving the way for women to lead at the highest level. Her ancestral home in North Shreepur village, Sadar Union, Fulgazi Upazila, Feni, remains a symbol of her enduring legacy. Nomination papers were submitted on behalf of Khaleda Zia from this constituency for the 13th parliamentary election on Monday.

Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul and National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman on Wednesday met visiting Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Speaker of the Pakistan National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma and Bhutan’s Foreign Minister DN Dhungyel at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. The dignitaries arrived in Dhaka to pay last respects to former Prime Minister and national leader Begum Khaleda Zia, who passed away on Tuesday. The advisers expressed their gratitude to the visiting dignitaries for their presence and showing solidarity with the people of Bangladesh during this time of national mourning, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka Vijitha Herath and Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development of the Maldives Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed were among the foreign dignitaries who attended the funeral programme of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. BNP Chairperson and three-time former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia was laid to rest beside her husband and late President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital on Wednesday afternoon. She was buried around 4:30 pm with state honour following her namaz-e-janaza at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Members of her family, high-ranking state officials, government authorities, foreign guests, diplomats and BNP-nominated politicians were present.

The CIA carried out a drone strike last week on a dock in Venezuela believed to be used by drug cartels, according to sources familiar with the classified operation. The strike, the first known direct U.S. action on Venezuelan soil since September, represents a major escalation in Washington’s campaign against President Nicolás Maduro. Venezuelan authorities have not commented on the attack. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation in a radio interview and during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago, saying the strike targeted a dock where drugs were loaded onto boats. Trump declined to specify whether the military or CIA conducted the attack. Special Operations Command stated it did not support the operation. The strike follows a months-long U.S. buildup in the Caribbean, including at least 30 strikes on suspected drug boats and a quasi-blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers. Trump has repeatedly threatened land-based strikes in Venezuela and publicly acknowledged authorizing covert CIA operations to counter drug trafficking and security threats. Maduro and his inner circle remain under U.S. indictment for narcoterrorism, with a $50 million reward now offered for information leading to his arrest.  

BNP Chairperson and three-time former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia was laid to eternal rest with full state honour beside her husband and late President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar’s Zia Udyan in the capital on Wednesday afternoon. She was buried around 4:30 pm, with her eldest son and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman personally placing her in the grave, following her namaz-e-janaza at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. A guard of honour was provided by the armed forces during the burial. On completion of the burial, the chiefs of the army, navy, and air force, the Home Adviser and Tarique Rahman, laid separate wreaths at the grave, paying tribute to Khaleda Zia. Two wreaths were also laid at Khaleda Zia’s grave on behalf of President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Professor Muhammad Yunus Chief Adviser. Later, a munajat was offered, seeking the salvation of her departed soul. Members of her family, high-ranking state officials, armed forces personnel, government authorities, and senior BNP leaders attended the burial and the munajat. Access to Zia Udyan was restricted to designated personnel during the burial, and public movement in the area remained limited until the ceremony concluded. After the namaz-e-janaza, Khaleda Zia’s body was transported from the Jatiya Sangsad complex to Zia Udyan in a national flag-draped freezer van under tight security. Her body was moved in a special vehicle around 4:25pm to rest beside her martyred husband, former President Ziaur Rahman. Near the grave, members of the army and navy carried her coffin to the burial site. During the funeral, her eldest son Tarique Rahman, his wife Zubaida Rahman, daughter Zaima Rahman, younger brother Arafat Rahman’s wife Shameela Rahman, and her daughters Jahia and Zafira Rahman, along with other family members, BNP leaders, and politicians, and the members of armed forces stood in mourning and paid their respects.

Export and import activities between Bangladesh and India through Benapole land port remained suspended from Wednesday morning due to a general holiday in Bangladesh. Shamim Hossain, director of Benapole port, said trade through Benapole port remained suspended from Wednesday due to the general holiday in Bangladesh over the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. The trade will resume on Thursday, he said. Officer-in-Charge of Benapole Checkpost Immigration Police, Sakawat Hossain said, despite the halt in trade, passport-holding passengers are crossing the border as usual.  

Hundreds of thousands of people on Wednesday offered prayers at Manik Mia Avenue as the namaz-e-janaza of BNP Chairperson and three-time former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was held, bidding her a final farewell amid waves of grief. Renowned Islamic scholar and Baitul Mukarrom Mosque Khatib Mufti Mohammad Abdul Malek led the namaz-e-janaza at 3:02pm Dhaka stands still as Khaleda’s coffin being taken to Manik Mia Avenue  Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, interim government advisers, BNP leaders, leaders of other political parties, and the chiefs of the three services joined the janaza. Foreign dignitaries, including representatives from India, Pakistan, and other South and Southeast Asian countries, were also present. Khaleda Zia’s body was taken to a temporary stage set up at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad around 2:45pm. Later, BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan read out a brief life sketch of Khaleda Zia on behalf of the party. Khaleda Zia’s body taken to Tarique Rahman’s Gulshan residence He explained the circumstances that led her to enter politics and highlighted her long struggle for democracy, her unwavering commitment to democratic values and her deep patriotism. He also recalled her contributions to the country and urged everyone to pray for her departed soul. At around 2:58pm, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman delivered a short address to the gathering, requesting people to forgive his mother if she had hurt anyone, knowingly or unknowingly, at any time in her life. He said if Khaleda Zia owed anything to anyone, they should inform him and he would make arrangements to repay it. People from across the country thronged Manik Mia Avenue, Khamar Bari, Bijoy Sarani, Asad Gate, Karwan Bazar and surrounding areas. Around 11:50 am, a freezer-van draped in the red-and-green national flag, carrying Khaleda Zia’s body, arrived at the avenue from the Gulshan Avenue residence of her elder son, Tarique Rahman. A multi-layered security arrangement was in place around Manik Mia Avenue to maintain law and order as thousands of mourners gathered. Members of the army, police, RAB, BGB, and other law enforcement agencies remained deployed throughout the event. After the janaza, she will be laid to rest beside her husband, late President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, where a grave has been prepared next to his. Despite the biting winter cold, people from across the country arrived in the capital from early morning to attend the janaza and pay their respects. Crowds were also seen overnight near the National Parliament area, Evercare Hospital, the Gulshan office, and Firoza. Khaleda Zia, a three-time Prime Minister, passed away at Evercare Hospital at around 6:00 am on Tuesday (December 30) after receiving treatment for more than a month.  

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has personally written a letter as BNP Chairperson and three-time former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia was laid to rest beside her husband and late President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital on Wednesday afternoon. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, who represented the government and people of India at the funeral of Khaleda Zia, handed over a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BNP Acting Chairman and Khaleda’s son Tarique Rahman. On arrival in Dhaka, Jaishankar met Tarique Rahman. “(I’ve) handed over to him a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (I’ve) conveyed deepest condolences on behalf of the government and people of India,” said the Indian Minister. Jaishankar expressed the confidence that Khaleda Zia’s vision and values will guide the development of Dhaka-Delhi partnership. BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma were, among others, present at the meeting. Jaishankar spent four hours in Dhaka, said Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Riaz Hamidullah who is currently visiting Dhaka. He said Bangladesh and India would look forward to script a new chapter in their ties, in shared interests driven by pragmatism and mutual interdependence, as indeed briefly discussed with BNP Acting Chairman. Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma were present at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to receive the Indian Minister. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow at the death of Khaleda Zia and hoped that her vision and legacy will continue to guide Dhaka-Delhi partnership. "I recall my warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace," PM Modi said in a message.

A massive crowd of mourners thronged Manik Mia Avenue and adjacent areas on Wednesday as people from all walks of life gathered to attend the Namaz-e-Janaza of BNP Chairperson and three-time Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Braving cold, traffic restrictions and security restrictions, supporters and citizens poured into the area to pay their final respects to the uncompromising leader. People from different parts of the country have been arriving in the capital since early morning to attend the janaza and pay tribute.  

Former Australian international cricketer Damien Martyn is in a serious condition at a hospital on the Gold Coast, Australian media reported on Wednesday. The 54-year-old, who represented Australia in 67 Test matches, fell ill in recent days. According to Nine Newspapers, Martyn has been placed in an induced coma as he battles meningitis. Gold Coast Health confirmed in a statement that he remains in serious condition at Gold Coast University Hospital. Tributes and messages of support have poured in from across the cricketing community. Former teammate Darren Lehmann posted on social media, sending prayers and urging Martyn to stay strong, while extending support to his family. Close friend and former wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist told News Corp. that Martyn is receiving excellent medical care and that his partner Amanda and family are aware of the widespread goodwill and prayers being offered. Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg also expressed concern, wishing Martyn a speedy recovery and saying the thoughts of the Australian cricket community are with him. Renowned for his elegant stroke play, Martyn averaged 46.37 in Test cricket. Born in Darwin, he made his Test debut at just 21 during the 1992–93 home series against the West Indies and later captained Western Australia at the age of 23. His highest Test score of 165 came against New Zealand in 2005, one of his 13 centuries. Martyn played his final Test in the 2006–07 Ashes before moving into commentary. He also featured in 208 one-day internationals, was part of Australia’s 1999 and 2003 World Cup-winning squads, and famously scored an unbeaten 88 in the 2003 final despite a broken finger. Source: AP 

Approaching his 59th birthday in February, the world’s oldest active professional footballer is set to begin yet another chapter in his extraordinary career, entering what will be his 41st season. Kazuyoshi Miura, affectionately known as “King Kazu” in Japan, announced this week that he has signed with Fukushima United, a third-division J-League club. He joins the team on loan from Yokohama FC, following a season-long loan spell with fourth-tier side Atletico Suzuka, where he appeared in seven matches without finding the net. Miura’s career spans continents and decades. Since making his professional debut in 1986 with Brazil’s Santos — the legendary club associated with Pelé — he has played in leagues across Brazil, Italy, Croatia, Australia, Portugal and Japan. In 2017, at the age of 50, Miura set a global milestone by becoming the oldest player to score in a professional match, surpassing a long-standing record held by former England great Stanley Matthews. A trailblazer for Japanese football, Miura was among the country’s first major soccer stars. During the 1990s, he was a key figure for Japan’s national team, scoring 55 goals in 89 appearances and helping raise the sport’s profile nationwide. Even as he nears 60, Miura continues to defy age, driven by an enduring passion for the game. Source: AP

The government has promulgated the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, with provision of maximum fine of Tk 5,000 for selling cigarettes or tobacco products in areas near educational institutions, hospitals and other sensitive areas. The ordinance was promulgated on Tuesday night by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Law Ministry amending the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) Act, 2005. As per the amended ordinance, no person will be allowed to sell or cause the sale of tobacco or tobacco products within 100 metres of educational institutions, hospitals, clinics, sports venues and children’s parks. The ordinance also states that the government or local government bodies may from time to time extend the boundary of the restricted area through general or special orders. Any violation of the law will attract a fine of up to Tk 5,000. In case of a second or repeated offence, the punishment will be doubled, the ordinance added.  

Burglars made off with property worth tens of millions of euros after breaking into a bank vault in western Germany during the holiday period, authorities said. Police said the thieves targeted safety deposit boxes at a Sparkasse bank branch in Gelsenkirchen, affecting around 2,700 customers. According to police spokesperson Thomas Nowaczyk, investigators estimate the total value of the stolen items at between 10 million and 90 million euros ($11.7 million to $105.7 million). German news agency dpa described the incident as potentially one of the largest bank heists in the country’s history. The bank remained closed on Tuesday as tensions rose, with about 200 customers reportedly gathering at the branch demanding access. The crime came to light early Monday morning after a fire alarm alerted police and firefighters shortly before 4 a.m. Responders discovered a hole in the wall and found the vault heavily looted. Investigators believe the suspects used a powerful drill to penetrate the vault through the basement. Witnesses told police they had seen several individuals carrying large bags in a nearby parking garage over the weekend. Security footage from the garage reportedly shows masked suspects inside a stolen vehicle in the early hours of Monday. Gelsenkirchen is located about 192 kilometers northwest of Frankfurt. Source: AP 

Asian stock markets showed a mixed performance on Wednesday, with several major exchanges closed for year-end and New Year holidays. Markets in Tokyo and Seoul were shut, while trading continued elsewhere in the region. In China, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index fell 0.9% to 25,630.54, whereas the Shanghai Composite edged up 0.1% to 3,969.75. Taiwan’s Taiex advanced 0.9% to 28,963.60. Australia’s benchmark S&P/ASX 200 in Sydney slipped marginally, falling less than 0.1% to 8,714.30. Tokyo markets are scheduled to remain closed through Friday for New Year holidays and will reopen on Monday, while South Korean markets will also be closed on Thursday. On Wall Street, trading continued Wednesday ahead of a holiday closure on Thursday, though activity remained subdued. The S&P 500 slipped 0.1% to 6,894.24, though it remains on course for an annual gain exceeding 17%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.2% to 48,367.06, and the Nasdaq composite declined 0.2% to 23,419.08. Technology stocks continued to carry significant influence. Nvidia and Apple posted modest declines, while Meta Platforms gained 1.1% following news of its acquisition of artificial intelligence startup Manus. Commodities saw stronger moves, with gold rising 1.4% and silver surging nearly 11%. Copper climbed 4.4% and is up more than 40% for the year on strong demand tied to global energy needs and AI-related infrastructure. In energy markets, oil prices edged slightly lower, while U.S. Treasury yields were mixed amid expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates unchanged at its January meeting. Source: AP

The body of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia has been kept at Manik Mia Avenue where her namaz-e-janaza will be held at 2pm, with thousands of people in attendance.  Around 11:50am, a freezer-van wrapped in the red-and-green national flag, carrying the BNP chief’s body arrived at the avenue from the Gulshan Avenue residence of her elder son Tarique Rahman. The freezer-van left Tarique’s residence amid tight security around 11:02am. A multi-layer security has been taken in and around the Manik Mia Avenue to maintain the law and order as thousands of people have already thronged there. Members of the army, police, RAB, BGB and other law-enforcement agencies have remained deployed. After the janaza, she will be laid to rest beside the grave of her husband, late President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. A grave has already been prepared next to Ziaur Rahman’s tomb. Dhaka stands still as Khaleda’s coffin being taken to Manik Mia Avenue  Despite the biting winter cold, people from different parts of the country have been arriving in the capital since early morning to attend the janaza and pay tribute. Crowds were also seen overnight at the National Parliament area, Evercare Hospital, the Gulshan office and Firoza. Several foreign dignitaries, including representatives from India, Pakistan and other South and Southeast Asian countries, are expected to attend the funeral prayers. Khaleda Zia, a three-time Prime Minister, passed away at Evercare Hospital at around 6:00am on Tuesday (December 30) after receiving treatment for more than a month.

Prof Dr Md Sayedur Rahman, special assistant to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus in charge of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with the rank of State Minister, has stepped down from his post. According to a gazette notification issued by the Cabinet Division, President Mohammed Shahabuddin accepted his resignation letter. On November 10 last year, the government had appointed him as a special assistant to the Chief Adviser.

The year 2026 is expected to be a blockbuster one for Indian cinema, with filmmakers lining up a diverse mix of war dramas, mythological spectacles, crime thrillers and emotionally driven stories. Packed with top stars, large-scale productions and ambitious storytelling, the upcoming slate promises something for every moviegoer. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated Indian films scheduled for release in 2026: Ikkis (January 1, 2026)Directed by Sriram Raghavan, this war drama is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who lost his life at 21 during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The film introduces Agastya Nanda, Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson, and marks the final on-screen appearance of veteran actor Dharmendra. Border 2 (January 23, 2026)A follow-up to the 1997 classic Border, the sequel revisits patriotic themes with a new cast alongside Sunny Deol. Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty also feature, and the film’s teaser has already generated strong patriotic sentiment. Ramayana Part 1 (Expected Diwali 2026)Among the most ambitious projects of the year, this retelling of the epic Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita. Backed by high-end visual effects and a star-studded ensemble including Sunny Deol and Yash, the film aims for grand cinematic scale. Drishyam 3 (October 2, 2026)Ajay Devgn returns as Vijay Salgaonkar in the third instalment of the popular thriller franchise. Known for its clever twists and gripping suspense, the film arrives over the Gandhi Jayanti weekend. Jailer 2 (June 12, 2026)Rajinikanth reprises his role in this sequel, promising amplified action and signature style. Ramya Krishnan, Yogi Babu and Mirnaa return, while new cast members include SJ Suryah, Suraj Venjaramoodu and Anna Rajan. Love & War (2026)Sanjay Leela Bhansali brings Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal together for the first time in a romantic drama set against a wartime backdrop. Featuring Bhansali’s trademark grandeur and emotional depth, the film’s exact release date is yet to be confirmed. Mardaani 3 (February 27, 2026)Rani Mukerji once again dons the role of fearless cop Shivani Shivaji Roy. The third chapter continues the franchise’s focus on crime, social issues and strong female-led action. Toxic (March 19, 2026)Yash headlines this dark, stylised gangster drama titled Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. With its edgy tone and intense narrative, the film is set to clash with other major releases in March. Dhurandhar 2 (March 19, 2026)Following the success of the first film, this sequel delves deeper into espionage and covert operations. Ranveer Singh’s character is expected to take on a more complex and unpredictable arc, with a stronger focus on psychological battles. Battle of Galwan (April 17, 2026)Salman Khan leads this war-action film inspired by the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops. The movie highlights bravery and sacrifice, with Chitrangada Singh in a key role. King (Late 2026)One of the most awaited films of the year, King stars Shah Rukh Khan in a high-octane action thriller. The film also marks the big-screen debut of his daughter Suhana Khan, alongside Deepika Padukone. The Raja Saab (January 9, 2026)Prabhas headlines this romantic fantasy-horror comedy directed by Maruthi Dasari. The cast includes Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Malavika Mohanan and Nidhhi Agerwal. O’ Romeo (February 13, 2026)Shahid Kapoor teams up with director Vishal Bharadwaj for this intriguing new project, with Triptii Dimri as the female lead. The film’s promotional material has already stirred curiosity. Alpha (2026)Alia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh lead Yash Raj Films’ first female-driven spy universe film. Directed by Shiv Rawail, the release was reportedly postponed to avoid a clash with Battle of Galwan. Jana Nayagan (January 9, 2026)Directed by H Vinoth, this film is designed as a tribute to Tamil superstar Thalapathy Vijay’s cinematic legacy. Featuring energetic dance numbers, powerful emotions and mass appeal, it is expected to be a major draw.  

Meta has acquired artificial intelligence startup Manus as the Facebook and Instagram parent intensifies efforts to expand AI capabilities across its platforms. The California-based tech company did not reveal the financial terms of the deal, though The Wall Street Journal reported that the acquisition was valued at more than $2 billion. Manus, headquartered in Singapore with links to China, introduced its first general-purpose AI agent earlier this year. The platform provides paid subscription services that allow users to deploy its AI tools for research, coding and other professional tasks. In a statement issued Monday, Meta said Manus already supports millions of users and businesses globally and that the company plans to scale the technology across its consumer and business products, including Meta AI. Manus CEO Xiao Hong said the acquisition would help the company grow on a stronger and more sustainable footing without altering how the platform operates or how decisions are made. He confirmed that Manus will continue offering subscriptions through its own app and website. The startup has seen rapid growth, announcing earlier this month that it had surpassed $100 million in annual recurring revenue just eight months after its launch. Manus previously received backing from investors including China’s Tencent Holdings, ZhenFund and HSG. The platform was initially launched by Butterfly Effect, also known as monica.im, a company founded in China before relocating to Singapore. Meta said there will be no remaining Chinese ownership in Manus following the transaction, and that the platform will shut down its services and operations in China. Manus confirmed it will continue operating in Singapore, where the majority of its workforce is based. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has been seeking to reinvigorate the company’s AI strategy amid stiff competition from rivals such as Google and OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT. In June, Meta invested $14.3 billion in AI data firm Scale and brought in its CEO, Alexandr Wang, to help lead efforts to develop advanced artificial intelligence systems.  

Zohran Mamdani is set to assume office as mayor of New York City at the start of 2026, with inauguration events stretching from midnight into New Year’s Day. The Democratic mayor-elect’s team has arranged two swearing-in ceremonies on Thursday. The first will be a brief, private event with family members shortly after midnight at the historic former City Hall subway station in Manhattan. A larger, public ceremony will follow later in the day, featuring a block party outside City Hall. It has long been tradition for incoming New York City mayors to mark the start of their term with more than one ceremony, as the new term officially begins with the new year. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was initially sworn in at Times Square after the New Year’s Eve ball drop, while former mayor Bill de Blasio took his first oath at his Brooklyn home. Mamdani’s midnight ceremony will take place at the old City Hall subway station, one of the city’s earliest subway stops, known for its ornate arches and vaulted ceilings. New York Attorney General Letitia James will administer the oath of office. The station, once the flagship stop of the city’s first subway line, was closed in 1945 and is now largely inaccessible to the public, aside from occasional guided tours. Mamdani’s office said the location was chosen to reflect his commitment to working people who keep the city running. In a statement, Mamdani said the station symbolised New York’s ambition to build transformative infrastructure that improved the lives of ordinary people—an ambition he said his administration aims to revive. Later on Thursday afternoon, Mamdani will be sworn in again on the steps of City Hall at a public ceremony scheduled for 1pm. The oath will be administered by US Senator Bernie Sanders, a longtime political inspiration for Mamdani, while US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will deliver opening remarks. The mayor-elect’s inaugural committee includes actor John Turturro, playwright Cole Escola and author Colson Whitehead, along with community advocates, small business owners and campaign workers. The public ceremony will be accompanied by a block party along Broadway leading to City Hall, with organisers expecting thousands to attend. The event will feature music, performances and interfaith elements, according to Mamdani’s office.

Nepalese Foreign Affairs Minister Bala Nanda Sharma arrived in Dhaka on Tuesday night to attend the state funeral of former Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party Begum Khaleda Zia and pay last respects on behalf of the government and the people of Nepal. Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh M Forhadul Islam and Ambassador Ghanashyam Bhandari received him at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, a senior official told UNB. The Foreign Minister’s visit reflects Nepal’s deep respect for the late leader’s contributions to strengthening Nepal–Bangladesh relations during her three tenures as Prime Minister, said the Nepalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Jaishankar in Dhaka to represent India to pay last respect to ex-PM Khaleda Minister Sharma is accompanied by senior officials of their Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Foreign Minister, who arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday night (11:25pm) by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, will return to Kathmandu on January 1.  

Thailand on Wednesday released 18 Cambodian prisoners of war who had been held for five months, in line with a ceasefire agreement aimed at ending prolonged and bitter border clashes between the two neighbours. The release followed a ceasefire pact signed on Saturday by the defence ministers of Thailand and Cambodia at the same border checkpoint linking Thailand’s Chanthaburi province and Cambodia’s Pailin province, where the handover took place. Thailand’s Foreign Ministry said the repatriation was carried out as a gesture of goodwill, confidence-building and compliance with international humanitarian norms. Cambodia’s Defence Ministry welcomed the move, saying it would help foster peace, stability and the full normalisation of relations between the two countries for the benefit of their peoples. The freeing of the soldiers removes a major obstacle to easing tensions after two rounds of intense fighting over disputed border areas. Thailand had earlier maintained that detaining the soldiers was permitted under the Geneva Conventions, which allow prisoners of war to be held until hostilities end. Thai authorities said the detainees were granted access to the International Committee of the Red Cross and other protections under international humanitarian law. Cambodia, however, had used the continued detention of the soldiers to galvanise domestic support amid the standoff with Thailand. In a statement on Wednesday, Cambodia’s defence ministry said the government had honoured its pledge to the families of the captured soldiers and the nation that no servicemember would be left behind. Under the ceasefire terms, the prisoners were to be released if fighting ceased for 72 hours after the agreement took effect at noon on Saturday. While that period ended on Tuesday, Thai officials said additional time was needed to assess the situation, citing reports of Cambodian drone activity along the border. The two sides have offered conflicting versions of how the soldiers were captured on the day an earlier ceasefire took effect in late July. Cambodian officials said their troops approached Thai positions peacefully to exchange post-conflict greetings, while Thai authorities claimed the soldiers entered territory Thailand considers its own with hostile intent. Initially, 20 Cambodian soldiers were taken captive, though two were released within days on medical grounds. The July ceasefire was mediated by Malaysia and reinforced by pressure from then US President Donald Trump, who threatened to suspend trade benefits unless both sides agreed. A more detailed agreement was finalised in October during a regional meeting in Malaysia attended by Trump. Despite those efforts, tensions persisted, with propaganda exchanges and sporadic clashes continuing before escalating into heavy fighting in early December. Since December 7, Thailand has reported the deaths of 26 soldiers and one civilian due to the fighting, along with 44 civilian fatalities, according to officials.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Wednesday to represent the government and people of India at the funeral of three-time former Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Khaleda Zia. As Delhi believes Khaleda Zia’s vision and legacy will continue to guide the partnership between Bangladesh and India, Jaishankar will represent the government and people of India at the funeral of Khaleda Zia. He (Jaishankar) arrived here at 11:30am, a senior official told UNB, noting that it is a brief visit on short notice to pay last respect to Khaleda. Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma were present at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to receive the Indian Minister. Khaleda Zia, the then Leader of the Opposition, visited India at the invitation of the External Affairs Minister from October 28 to November 3, 2012. Her last official visit to India was in March 2006 as the then Prime Minister of Bangladesh. She paid a state visit to India from March 20-22 March at the invitation of the then Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. During the visit, she held comprehensive discussions with then Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on the entire gamut of bilateral relations. They also discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow at the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda and hoped that her vision and legacy will continue to guide Dhaka-Delhi partnership. "I recall my warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace," PM Modi said in a message. Hope ex-PM Khaleda's vision, legacy to guide our partnership: PM Modi Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest beside her husband and late President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital, following her namaz-e-janaza at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Wednesday afternoon. The Indian Prime Minister said he is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Khaleda and hoped that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership.  “May her soul rest in peace," Prime Minister Modi said in the message. "Our sincerest condolences to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May the Almighty grant her family the fortitude to bear this tragic loss," he said. As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, PM Modi said, her important contributions towards the development of Bangladesh, as well as Bangladesh-India relations, will always be remembered.  

Within a span of one day, the temperatures in the southwestern district of Chuadanaga fell by 4.5 degree Celsius on Wednesday morning, throwing normal life out of gear.    The district recorded temperatures of eight degree Celsius with 96 percent of air humidity at 9am as a moderate cold wave has been sweeping, according to the Chuadanga First Class Weather Observatory. The cold wave may persist for another couple of days in the district, the local met office forecast. From early morning, dense fog and icy winds left roads largely deserted as people avoided going outdoors unless necessary. However, day labourers and low-income earners were seen braving the cold for their livelihoods. At several street corners, people lit fires using straw, wood and old tyres to keep warm. Poultry vendor Iyarul Ali said he usually goes out early in the morning, but sales have dropped significantly as fewer people are coming out due to the intense cold. Hospitals and clinics, including Chuadanga Sadar Hospital, are witnessing an increase in cold-related illnesses. Children and elderly people are particularly suffering from respiratory problems, cold-related fever and pneumonia. Jamirul Rahman, officer-in-charge of the Chuadanga First Class Weather Observatory, warned that the intensity of cold could increase further during night and early morning hours.

Braving biting winter cold and dense fog, thousands of mourners converged on Manik Mia Avenue on Wednesday to offer final prayers for former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, turning the capital into a sea of grief, remembrance and quiet reverence. People from different parts of the country began arriving in Dhaka from the early hours of the morning to attend the namaz-e-janaza, defying severe winter conditions and thick fog. Some mourners travelled hundreds of kilometres sitting on bus engine covers after failing to secure tickets and some others arrived despite serious physical injuries. From Sakua Union in Panchagarh, BNP union-level joint secretary Sabuj Molla and his companion Tarek began their journey on Tuesday night. With no bus or train tickets available, they boarded a Talash Paribahan bus by sitting on the engine cover, paying double the usual fare. They left Panchagarh around 7:30pm and reached Gabtoli at about 8:30am on Wednesday, from where they walked toward the National Parliament area. “We came with the sole intention of joining Madam Khaleda Zia’s janaza,” Sabuj said, adding that many leaders and activists from Panchagarh district had also travelled to Dhaka. Meanwhile, Tarek-ul-Islam from Savar attended the janaza despite having a broken leg from a recent accident. He travelled by van up to Mazar Road in Gabtoli and walked the rest of the way using crutches. Tarek-ul-Islam said he came out of love and respect for Khaleda Zia. He left home shortly after 9:00am and reached Gabtoli by 10:00am before continuing on foot. The namaz-e-janaza is scheduled to be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, to be led by the Khatib of the National Mosque, Baitul Mukarram, Mufti Mohammad Abdul Malek. From dawn, groups of mourners were seen travelling to the capital to pay their final respects. Large crowds gathered around the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban area, Manik Mia Avenue, Evercare Hospital, the BNP Gulshan office and Firoza, Khaleda Zia’s residence. Despite the harsh weather, people stood quietly, offering prayers and remembering the three-time prime minister. Dhaka stands still as Khaleda’s coffin being taken to Manik Mia Avenue  At present, Khaleda Zia’s body is being taken to Manik Mia Avenue from the Gulshan Avenue residence of her elder son, Tarique Rahman. Tarique Rahman, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, members of the party’s standing committee, senior leaders and close relatives are travelling with the coffin. Earlier, the body was taken from Evercare Hospital to Tarique Rahman’s residence at around 9:16am.  Wrapped in the red and green national flag, the coffin was carried in a freezer van under tight security. Family members, close relatives and senior party leaders paid their final respects at the Gulshan residence. After the janaza, Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest beside her late husband, President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.  Preparations for the burial have already been completed. Meanwhile, the government has announced state mourning and a general holiday in honour of the former prime minister. Tarique recites Quran, prays for Khaleda    

The body of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia is being taken to Manik Mia Avenue from the Gulshan Avenue residence of her elder son Tarique Rahman to hold the namaz-e-janaza.  A freezer-van wrapped in the red-and-green national flag, carrying the BNP chief’s body, left Tarique’s residence amid tight security around 11:02am. Earlier, the body was taken to the Gulshan Avenue residence from Evercare Hospital. The freezer-van left the hospital at around 8:55am and reached Tarique Rahman’s residence at House No-196 on Gulshan Avenue at about 9:16am. However, Khaleda Zia’s body was kept at the hospital mortuary overnight. From early morning, a large number of party leaders, activists and ordinary people gathered on the roads around the residence and nearby Firoza, Khaleda Zia’s own house, to pay their last respects. Many stood silently, while others were seen praying. Security was tightened in and around the Gulshan area following the arrival of the body.  Members of the army, police, RAB, BGB and other law-enforcement agencies were deployed. Barricades were set up and vehicle movement on parts of Gulshan Avenue was restricted. Family members, close relatives and party leaders paid their final respects to Khaleda Zia at Tarique’s Gulshan residence. After the janaza, she will be laid to rest beside the grave of her husband, late President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.  A grave has already been prepared next to Ziaur Rahman’s tomb. Despite the biting winter cold, people from different parts of the country have been arriving in the capital since early morning to attend the janaza and pay tribute.  Crowds were also seen overnight at the National Parliament area, Evercare Hospital, the Gulshan office and Firoza. Several foreign dignitaries, including representatives from India, Pakistan and other South and Southeast Asian countries, are expected to attend the funeral prayers. Khaleda Zia, a three-time Prime Minister, passed away at Evercare Hospital at around 6:00am on Tuesday (December 30) after receiving treatment for more than a month.    

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman recited from the Holy Quran at his Gulshan residence and prayed for his mother, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, shortly after her body arrived there on Wednesday morning. Sitting alone next to his mother's coffin inside the residence, Tarique Rahman appeared deeply grief-stricken as he prayed for his mother. Several relatives were seen reciting the Holy Quran and praying to the Almighty Allah, while others wept and expressed their sorrow. Earlier, a freezer-van wrapped in the red-and-green national flag, carrying Khaleda Zia’s body, left Evercare Hospital at around 8:55am amid tight security. The vehicle reached Tarique Rahman’s residence at House No-196 on Gulshan Avenue at about 9:16am. Following a brief stay at the residence, family members, close relatives and senior BNP leaders are expected to pay their last respects. Later, Khaleda Zia’s body will be taken to the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad, where her namaz-e-janaza will be held. After the funeral prayers, she will be laid to rest beside the grave of her husband, late President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. Khaleda Zia passed away at Evercare Hospital at around 6:00am on Tuesday after undergoing treatment for more than a month.

Traffic will remain restricted on several roads in the capital on Wednesday due to the movement of the convoy carrying the body of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. The funeral prayer (Namaj-e-Janaja) of Begum Khaleda Zia is scheduled to be held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building after Zuhr prayer on Wednesday, says a DMP media release. As per the DMP, the body will be taken from Evercare Hospital to the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building in the morning. The convoy will pass through Evercare Hospital, 36 July Expressway, Kuril Flyover, Navy Headquarters, residence Firoza, Gulshan-2, Kamal Ataturk Avenue, Airport Road, Mohakhali Flyover, Jahangir Gate, Bijoy Sarani, and the Aeroplane Crossing, before entering the South Plaza through Gate No. 6 of the National Parliament Building. Traffic restricted for Khaleda Zia’s janaza: ISPR Traffic restrictions have been imposed on the relevant roads during the movement of the convoy. The DMP has sought cooperation from the public to avoid inconvenience. The information was disclosed in a media release issued by DMP on Tuesday evening. Traffic restrictions are in place around College Gate intersection (Residential Model College), IDB Bhaban intersection and Bijoy Sarani, the ISPR said on Wednesday morning. However, pedestrian movement remained open to the public, with the authorities urging people to plan their travel accordingly.

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked 13th on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 146 at 10:00 am this morning (December 31, 2025).   Today Dhaka’s air was classified as ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ referring to a healthy threat, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. India’s Delhi, Pakistan’s Lahore and Egypt’s Cairo cities respectively occupied the first, second and third spots on the list, with AQI scores of 274, 214, and 197 respectively. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka’s air turns ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Twenty seven platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed at key points of Dhaka to ensure tight security around the janaza and burial of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Md Shariful Islam, public relations officer of the BGB headquarters, said the deployment covers Evercare Hospital, the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban area and Zia Udyan to strengthen overall security. The namaz-e-janaza of Khaleda Zia is scheduled to be held at 2pm on Wednesday at Manik Mia Avenue and she will be laid to rest at 3:30pm beside her husband, martyred President Ziaur Rahman. Curtain falls on a political giant as Khaleda Zia passes into history Begum Khaleda Zia passed away at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka at 6am on Tuesday. She was 80. On the other hand, Bangladesh is observing a three-day state mourning and general holiday on Wednesday over the death of Khaleda Zia. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus announced the decision in a televised address to the nation on Tuesday.

Bangladesh is observing a three-day state mourning and general holiday on Wednesday over the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus announced the decision in a televised address to the nation on Tuesday. "I humbly appeal to everyone to maintain discipline in all forms of mourning, including the Namaz-e-Janaza. I know that you are all very emotional at this time. I hope that you will show patience in this time of mourning and cooperate with all those involved in carrying out all the formalities, including her funeral," Prof Yunus said. "May the Almighty Allah grant us all patience, strength and the ability to remain united," said the Chief Adviser. Condolences pour in for Khaleda Zia as nation mourns As part of the state mourning programme, the national flag will be kept at half-mast for three days at all government, semi-government and autonomous offices, educational institutions, and both public and private buildings across Bangladesh, as well as at Bangladesh missions abroad. Besides, special prayers will be offered in mosques nationwide on Friday, January 2, 2026, seeking eternal peace for the departed soul. Similar prayers will also be held at other religious institutions.

The body of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was taken to the Gulshan Avenue residence of her elder son and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman from Evercare Hospital on Wednesday morning. A freezer-van wrapped in the red-and-green national flag, carrying the BNP chief’s body, left Evercare Hospital at around 8:55am and reached Tarique Rahman’s residence at House No-196 on Gulshan Avenue at about 9:16am amid tight security. Earlier, Khaleda Zia’s body was kept at the hospital mortuary overnight. Soon after the body arrived, senior BNP leaders, including party Secretary General Mirza Abbas Standing Committee members Nazrul Islam Khan, Abdul Moyeen Khan and Selima Rahman, reached the residence.  Tarique Rahman was seen sitting quietly inside the house, reciting from the Holy Quran. From early morning, a large number of party leaders, activists and ordinary people gathered on the roads around the residence and nearby Firoza, Khaleda Zia’s own house, to pay their last respects. Many stood silently, while others were seen praying. Security was tightened in and around the Gulshan area following the arrival of the body.  Members of the army, police, RAB, BGB and other law-enforcement agencies were deployed. Barricades were set up and vehicle movement on parts of Gulshan Avenue was restricted. Family members, close relatives and party leaders will pay their final respects to Khaleda Zia at Tarique’s Gulshan residence. From there, her body will be taken to the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad, where her namaz-e-janaza will be held at 2:00pm. Khaleda’s death: Bangladesh observing state mourning, general holiday After the janaza, she will be laid to rest beside the grave of her husband, late President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.  A grave has already been prepared next to Ziaur Rahman’s tomb. Despite the biting winter cold, people from different parts of the country have been arriving in the capital since early morning to attend the janaza and pay tribute.  Crowds were also seen overnight at the National Parliament area, Evercare Hospital, the Gulshan office and Firoza. Several foreign dignitaries, including representatives from India, Pakistan and other South and Southeast Asian countries, are expected to attend the funeral prayers. Khaleda Zia, a three-time Prime Minister, passed away at Evercare Hospital at around 6:00am on Tuesday (December 30) after receiving treatment for more than a month.

Vehicular movement has remained restricted since 8am on Wednesday in several areas of Dhaka for the state funeral rites of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Traffic restrictions are in place around College Gate intersection (Residential Model College), IDB Bhaban intersection and Bijoy Sarani, the ISPR said on Wednesday morning.   However, pedestrian movement remained open to the public, with the authorities urging people to plan their travel accordingly. The namaz-e-janaza of Khaleda Zia is scheduled to be held at 2pm at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban and Manik Mia Avenue. DMP mourns demise of Khaleda Zia, issues guidelines for 3 days Followed by this, she will be laid to rest beside the grave of her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman at 3:30pm. The three-time former Prime Minister breathed her last around 6am at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka on Tuesday while undergoing treatment. She was 80.

From dawn to late night, Khulna’s commercial heartbeats pulse through its crowded markets, where hundreds of shops conduct business worth crores of taka every day. Yet behind the bustle and bargaining lies a silent, growing danger -- fire. At least 23 large and small markets across Khulna city are facing acute fire risks due to a lack of basic safety measures, according to Fire Service officials. Narrow access roads, unplanned shop layouts, tangled electrical wiring and the absence of firefighting facilities have turned many of the city’s busiest trading hubs into potential death traps. Most of these markets have developed over the years without proper planning or approval from the Khulna Development Authority (KDA), the Fire Service or other relevant agencies. As a result, even a minor spark could trigger a devastating blaze, causing massive losses and endangering countless lives. A Daily Fear for Traders For traders, fear has become part of their daily routine. “We open our shops every day with fear,” said Md Kamal Hossain, a cloth trader at Boro Bazar, adding, “A small spark could finish everything. With so many traders packed into narrow lanes, we remain anxious all the time. The roads need to be widened. We have raised the issue with our traders’ association, but there has been little progress.” Similar concerns echo through Notun Market, Suhrawardy Biponi Bitan, Horoz Market and the markets along Bhairab Stand Road--all among those identified as highly vulnerable. At Moshla Patti, spice trader Delwar Hossain said repeated appeals have gone unheard. “We keep asking for the market roads to be widened, but no one listens. The Fire Service sometimes visits and gives us basic instructions. We are doing business cautiously,” he said. St Martin’s-bound cruise ship catches fire in Cox’s Bazar jetty; 1 killed Inside a Looming Disaster The danger becomes starkly visible inside places like the Khan Jahan Ali Hawkers Market. Narrow alleys—often no more than four to five feet wide—are lined with shops on both sides. In some sections, goods spill into walkways, while clusters of exposed electrical wires hang overhead. During peak hours, movement becomes difficult and breathing uncomfortable. In the event of a fire, escape routes would be virtually non-existent. This scenario is not unique. Fire Service officials say almost all major commercial areas in Khulna share similar conditions. Firefighters Face Barriers According to Md Masud Sardar, acting deputy director of the Khulna Fire Service, at least 23 markets in the metropolis have been categorised as high-risk zones. “If a fire breaks out in these places, our vehicles cannot enter,” he said, adding, “Without training and infrastructural development, accidents cannot be prevented. We face serious challenges.” Sardar pointed to tangled electrical wiring, narrow lanes, lack of firefighting equipment and inadequate water supply as the primary reasons behind the heightened risk. “We have raised these issues in coordination meetings with various departments, including water administration. With everyone’s effort, we hope the situation will improve,” he added. Administration Promises Action The district administration says steps are being taken. Deputy Commissioner of Khulna Toufiqur Rahman said the authorities are working in coordination with the Fire Service and business associations based on the list of risky markets. “Training programmes and awareness initiatives have already been undertaken,” he said, acknowledging the scale of the challenge. Planners Warn of Catastrophe Urban planners, however, warn that awareness alone is not enough. “These markets developed in the city centre without any prior planning,” said Asif Ahmed, general secretary of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP), Khulna unit. “Without immediate coordinated action involving the city corporation, KDA, power division, Fire Service and WASA, a major catastrophe could be imminent.” Woman, granddaughter die as house catches fire in Ctg He stressed that narrow roads must be widened, electrical cables placed underground, and adequate water supply and firefighting systems ensured in every market. A Ticking Clock The warning signs are already clear. According to Fire Service data, 291 small and large fire incidents were reported in Khulna district over the past year. As the city’s markets continue to expand vertically and horizontally without safety upgrades, the risk grows with every passing day. For thousands of traders and customers, Khulna’s commercial lifelines remain vibrant—but dangerously vulnerable.

All necessary arrangements are being made by the security forces and relevant state authorities to allow the public to participate in the funeral of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, officials said Tuesday night. According to a press release from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing, the funeral will be held at Manik Mia Avenue on Wednesday, after Zohr prayers, around 2:00 pm. The coffin will be placed at the western end of Manik Mia Avenue instead of the South Plaza of the National Parliament. The ceremony will take place both inside the National Parliament grounds and across Manik Mia Avenue, with measures in place to ensure that people can participate safely. Roads surrounding the avenue will also be managed to allow public access. After the funeral, around 3:30 pm, Begum Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest with state honors beside the late President and freedom fighter Ziaur Rahman. Members of her family, high-ranking state officials, government authorities, foreign guests, diplomats, and BNP-nominated politicians are expected to attend. Access will be restricted to designated personnel during the burial, and public movement in Zia Udyan, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, will be limited until the completion of the burial rites.

The aspirants from 51 out of 59 registered political parties, along with hundreds of independent candidates, submitted nominations to contest the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, according to the data compiled by the Election Commission. Among the parties, the highest 331 aspirants from Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) submitted nomination papers (multiple candidates in some constituencies) to run the election scheduled for February 12, 2026. Besides, 276 aspirants from Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, 268 from Islami Andolon Bangladesh, 224 from Jatiya Party (JaPa), 104 from Gano Odhikar Parishad, 94 from Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, 65 from Communist Party of Bangladesh CPB), 53 aspirants from AB Party, 44 from National Citizen Party-NCP, 42 from Insaniat Bangladesh and 41 aspirants from Basod. The other political parties who joined the race have less than 40 aspirants each. Read more: Bangladesh Polls: Registration time for postal voting extended till Jan 5 Several registered parties, including Samyabadi Dal (ML), Krishak Sramik Janata League, NAP, Workers Party, Bikalpadhara Bangladesh, Bangladesh Tarikat Federation, Trinamool BNP and BNM have no aspirants in the election. A total of 2,569 aspirants, including 478 independent candidates, filed nomination papers in the country's 300 constituencies. The Election Commission is now scrutinising the nomination papers before finalising the list of valid candidates for the polls. 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. Read more: Election season kicks off in Bangladesh; 2,582 candidates submitted nomination papers According to the election schedule, the deadline for the submission of nomination papers was 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 time for the scrutiny of nomination papers is on December 30-January 4, while the appeals against the decisions of the returning officers can be filed from January 5 to 9 and the appeals will be settled from January 10 to 18.

Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher on Tuesday said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was the most popular leader Bangladesh has ever seen. “If we make an assessment up to this moment, Begum Khaleda Zia was the most popular leader in Bangladesh. Today, the entire nation is united, without any question, in mourning her and paying respect,” he told reporters. Taher made the remarks around 7:45pm in front of the BNP Chairperson’s political office in Gulshan, after signing the condolence book opened there in memory of Khaleda Zia. He said Khaleda Zia was an uncompromising leader in the struggle to establish people’s rights. “She proved this through every step of her political life. She was very patriotic and never compromised on national interests, even under pressure from powerful neighbours. Because of this, she often became a victim of political persecution,” he said. The Jamaat leader also said during her illness, people from all political backgrounds prayed anxiously for her recovery and stood united. “That itself shows how widely she was loved and respected,” he said. “Khaleda Zia died with the highest honour and love from the people. She was successful in her political life. The nation should now fulfil its responsibilities by following her patriotism and dedication to the country,” Taher said. Khaleda Zia passed away around 6:00 am on Tuesday at Evercare Hospital after receiving treatment for more than a month.

An Ansar member was killed by gunfire from a colleague at a garment factory in Bhaluka, Mymensingh on Monday evening. Police have arrested the accused Ansar member in connection with the incident. The incident occurred around 7:00 pm at Sultana Sweaters Limited, a Labib Group factory in Mehrabari area of Bhaluka upazila. The deceased, Bajendra Biswas, 40, was the son of Probita Biswas from Kadirpur village, Sadar, Sylhet. The accused, Noman Mia, hails from Baluturi Bazar area under Taherpur police station in Sunamganj district. Both were working at the factory. According to police and local sources, 20 Ansar members were on duty at the factory at the time. Bajendra and Noman were seated together when a shot was accidentally fired from a shotgun in Noman’s hand, hitting Bajendra in his left arm. He was critically injured and rushed to Bhaluka Upazila Health Complex by colleagues, where the duty doctor declared him dead. Bhaluka Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Zahidul Islam said the accused Noman Mia was arrested immediately after the incident. The deceased’s body has been sent to Mymensingh Medical College Hospital for autopsy. Legal proceedings are ongoing, and a detailed investigation into the incident is underway.

Gonoforum Emeritus President Dr Kamal Hossain on Tuesday described late BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia as an inspiration of Bangladesh’s democratic struggle. In a condolence message, he also expressed deep sorrow over Khaleda’s death and conveyed sympathy to her bereaved family members and BNP leaders and activists. “We have lost a patriot and a democratic guardian with the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia. She will remain a unique source of inspiration in the country’s democratic struggle,” he said. Dr Kamal said Khaleda Zia took charge of her party at a difficult time and, under her capable leadership, BNP became united and earned the confidence of the people. He said her uncompromising leadership during the anti-autocracy movement of the 1990s, the formation of the outline of the three alliances, and her role in the restoration of democracy would be remembered by the nation lifelong with deep respect. Dr Kamal also recalled Khaleda Zia’s role in establishing the parliamentary system in Bangladesh and her repeated imprisonment during democratic movements, saying her refusal to compromise with injustice set a shining example for future generations. He observed that the people of the country never accepted the boundless oppression, persecution and humiliation inflicted upon her during the previous Awami League government; rather, she emerged as a shining symbol of the people’s aspirations. In his message, Dr Kamal prayed for the salvation of Khaleda’s departed soul and urged the country’s people to pray for her.

A fire broke out at a six-storey building in Ichapura Bazar, Sirajdikhan, Munshiganj, on Tuesday afternoon, but prompt action by the fire service prevented major damage. The blaze started around 4:30 pm on the ground floor mobile shop ‘Payel Telecom’ at Khaja Tower, a six-storey commercial building, according to local sources. Muhammad Shafikul Islam, Deputy Director of Munshiganj Fire Service, said two units from Sirajdikhan Fire Station rushed to the scene and brought the fire under control within about half an hour. He added that mobile phones and various servicing equipment inside the shop were damaged in the fire, but no casualties were reported. Initial investigations suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit. The fire was confined to the shop where it started and did not spread to surrounding stores, averting a potentially larger disaster, the fire service said. A technical investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Two brothers were injured in an explosion caused by a gas burner leakage at a restaurant in the capital’s Bashundhara area on Tuesday evening. The incident occurred around 6:45pm at Dhali Food Corner while a gas stove line was being repaired, said Imaul Islam, officer-in-charge of Vatara Police Station. He said the blast took place due to a gas line leakage during the repair work of the burner, but no cylinder explosion occurred. The injured were identified as Shah Ali and Sabuj, sons of Monjurul. They were taken to a nearby hospital for primary treatment, and their injuries are not serious, the OC added.

Jahangirnagar University (JU) has published the results of the 2025–26 academic year admission test for the first-year undergraduate (honours) batch-55 ‘A’ unit, which includes the Faculty of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and the Institute of Information Technology. The results were released Tuesday on the university’s official admission website. According to university sources, a total of 60,351 candidates applied for 426 seats in the ‘A’ unit this year, meaning an average of nearly 140 students competed for a single seat. The JU administration said detailed information regarding the admission process and results can be accessed at the university’s admission portal: ‘ju-admission.org’. The first-year undergraduate (honours) admission tests for the 2025–26 academic year started on December 21 and concluded on December 29.

Professor AZM Zahid Hossain, personal physician of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, on Tuesday recalled her deep sense of motherly affection towards those around her. He shared his memories while speaking to journalists at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office. “Those of us who had the opportunity to work closely with Begum Khaleda Zia saw two sides of her,” Dr Zahid said. “On the one hand, she was truly a guardian figure, and on the other, she cared for us with deep motherly affection.” He said no one could leave her residence without eating. “She would always ask whether the doctors had eaten, whether those working with her had been served food,” he recalled. Dr Zahid, also a BNP Standing Committee member, said Khaleda was attentive even to small details. “If a doctor arrived a little late, she would ask why it took so long. She would say, ‘I have been waiting.’ When she was at home, specialist doctors visited her every day, and she spoke to everyone.” He urged the country’s people to pray to Almighty Allah to grant her Jannah. “May Allah give the leaders and activists of BNP the strength to bear this loss, and grant BNP Acting Chairman the strength to carry out his responsibilities amid this grief.” Asked when he last spoke to Khaleda Zia, Dr Zahid said dialysis began on December 1 and she was later placed on elective ventilation. “Even after that, there were times when we spoke to her. When we visited, she tried to respond and answer our questions.” He said doctors always acted according to her physical condition. “As physicians, we never do anything that could worsen a patient’s condition. At this moment, given my mental state, it is difficult for me to specify exactly when our last conversation took place.” Dr Zahid noted that whenever they visited her, she was responsive. “If she was asked something, she always tried to reply.” Khaleda Zia passed away at around 6:00am on Tuesday at Evercare Hospital, where she had been undergoing treatment for more than a month. Following her death, the BNP announced a seven-day mourning programme, during which party flags will be kept at half-mast and black flags will be hoisted at all offices of the party. Khaleda will be laid to rest beside her husband and late President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital, following her namaz-e-janaza at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Wednesday afternoon.

Feni is in deep mourning following the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. She passed away at 6:00 am Tuesday at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka after battling illness for 37 days. Residents of Feni, particularly in her ancestral village of Majumdar Bari in South Sripur, Fulgazi, were seen weeping as news of her death spread. Locals described the former Prime Minister as a leader who cared deeply for her people, often visiting her village and personally inquiring about their welfare despite tight security during her tenure. Tavith Awal, president of the Bangladesh Football Federation and a native of Daganbhuiyan, called her death “one of the saddest days in Bangladesh’s history,” praising her sacrifices for democracy and her unwavering leadership. BNP leaders and local residents recalled Khaleda Zia’s compassion, her respect for elders, and affection for the young. Many expressed personal grief, saying her guidance and mentorship had left a lasting impact on their lives. Khaleda Zia was born Khaleda Khanam Putul on August 15, 1945, in Dinajpur. She studied at Mission School and Dinajpur Government Girls’ High School before marrying Ziaur Rahman in 1960. She was elected to parliament five times from Feni-1 and served as Prime Minister three times. Her passing leaves a void in both her party and the nation. Tributes and prayers for her soul and her family continue to pour in from across Feni and beyond.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Speaker of Pakistan’s National Assembly, will represent Pakistan at the funeral of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia on Wednesday. The announcement was confirmed by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar through his verified X account. Begum Khaleda Zia passed away on Tuesday morning at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka after battling illness for 37 days. Her funeral will take place at her ancestral home in Majumdar Bari, South Sripur, Fulgazi, Feni.

Three-time Prime Minister and five-time MP Khaleda Zia, daughter of Feni, was known for personally interacting with villagers at her ancestral home in South Sripur, Fulgazi, despite tight security during her tenure. Locals recalled that she would remove security barriers to speak directly with people about local issues and development projects. Mohammad Jamal Uddin Khondakar, former imam of the local mosque and founder of Iskandaria Madrasa, said, “She would call villagers closer, speak to each person individually, and inquire about their well-being and local affairs.” Neighbor Monara Akter added, “We could only peek from a distance, but she would have security step aside to talk with us face-to-face.” Ismail Bhuiya Tipu, joint convener of Fulgazi Upazila Jubo Dal, recalled being called forward by her during a visit and talking for 40 minutes, a memory he described as priceless. Local and family sources said Khaleda Zia had also visited her father’s grave in 2008 before starting election campaigning from Fulgazi. Her ancestral residence houses a mosque, madrasa, school, and college for public use. Her cousin Shamim Hossain Majumdar said, “She respected elders and cared deeply for children. Her death is an irreparable loss for the nation.” Khaleda Zia, born Khaleda Khanum Putul on Aug 15, 1945, in Dinajpur, served as Prime Minister after being elected five times as MP from Feni-1 constituency.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed that no assemblies or programmes, including the Bishwa Ijtema, be held at the Tongi Ijtema ground during the pre-election period to ensure the smooth conduct of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election and the 2026 referendum. The directive was issued on Tuesday through a letter sent to the Inspector General of Police (IGP). According to the letter, requests had been made to organise Khurujer Jor from January 2–4 and Bishwa Ijtema-2026 from January 22–24 at the Tongi Ijtema ground. However, considering the need to ensure a free, fair, peaceful and uninterrupted election and referendum, the ministry asked the IGP to take necessary measures to prevent any gatherings or events, including Khurujer Jor and the Bishwa Ijtema, at the venue during the pre-election period. The letter also noted that keeping the Tongi Ijtema ground free of assemblies during the election period is necessary in view of overall law and order, public safety and administrative preparedness surrounding the nationally significant election and referendum. The Home Ministry instructed the police and all concerned authorities to take required steps and ensure full cooperation in implementing the directive.

Shafiqul Islam, one of the July warriors who was shot during the July Uprising, has died after battling complications for nearly one and a half years. Shafiqul, a resident of Haluaghat upazila in Mymensingh, breathed his last at around 7am on Monday while undergoing treatment at Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Medical College Hospital in Gazipur. Physicians of the hospital said he died after suffering from pneumonia. Shafiqul was the son of Abdus Samad of Dorshapara village under Haluaghat upazila. He had been living with his family in the Tongi East area of Gazipur City Corporation. According to family members and local sources, Shafiqul Islam was officially recognised as a July fighter and enlisted in the government gazette, bearing gazette number 722. He sustained a bullet injury on his right thigh on August 5 last year while taking part in the uprising in the Azampur area of Uttara. Following the incident, he was initially treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later referred to the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR). Since then, he had been receiving treatment at different hospitals for a prolonged period. Although necessary documents were prepared to send him abroad for advanced medical treatment at government initiative, Shafiqul allegedly declined to go overseas for treatment. Ridwan Siddiqui, a representative of the Haluaghat July martyrs and injured cell, said Shafiqul’s janaza will be held on Wednesday at 10am at the Mama Pagla Mazar Mosque premises in Dorshapara. He will be buried at his family graveyard after the funeral prayers. Meanwhile, Al Noor Mohammad Ayas, coordinator of the Shaheed and Injured Cell of the Anti-Discrimination Students’ Movement central committee, said Shafiqul’s death is a reminder that many injured July fighters are still deprived of proper medical care, while families of martyrs continue to be denied justice.

Nepalese Foreign Affairs Minister Bala Nanda Sharma will attend the state funeral of former Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party Begum Khaleda Zia and pay last respects on behalf of the government and the people of Nepal. The Foreign Minister’s visit reflects Nepal’s deep respect for the late leader’s contributions to strengthening Nepal–Bangladesh relations during her three tenures as Prime Minister, said the Nepalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the visit, Minister Sharma will be accompanied by senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Foreign Minister is scheduled to arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday night (11:25pm) by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight and to return to Kathmandu on January 1.

The body of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia will be kept at the Evercare Hospital mortuary overnight before being taken to her Gulshan residence on Wednesday morning. “Madam’s (Khaleda’s) body has been kept at the Evercare Hospital mortuary for the night. On Wednesday morning, it will be taken to her residence Feroza,” said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. He said family members and close relatives will bid her final farewell at her residence, Feroza, where she had been living since April 20, 2011. After being evicted from her cantonment residence by the Awami League government in November 2010, the BNP Chairperson initially stayed for a few days on a second-floor apartment in a five-storey building in Gulshan-2, owned by her brother Shamim Eskander. Later, she moved to Feroza, a two-storey rented house built on one bigha of land. From Feroza, Sayrul said, Khaleda’s body will be taken to the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad, where her namaz-e-janaza will be held at 2:00 pm. Following the janaza, she will be laid to rest beside the grave of her husband, late President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka. Khaleda Zia passed away around 6:00 am on Tuesday at Evercare Hospital after receiving treatment for more than a month.

A seven-year-old child was allegedly raped after her hands, legs and mouth were tied in Chandina upazila of Cumilla. The injured child is currently receiving treatment at Cumilla Medical College Hospital. Police arrested an 18-year-old youth, Tushar Ahmed, in connection with the incident. He was detained on Tuesday afternoon from Barkait village under Chandina upazila. Tushar is the son of expatriate Faridul Islam Shahid of Daburibari area in the same village. According to police and family members, the incident occurred on Friday (December 26) afternoon. The victim’s grandmother said Tushar’s grandmother called the child from her home to pick bael fruit from a tree. After picking the fruit, the accused allegedly took the child into a room, tied her hands, legs and mouth, and raped her before fleeing after opening the door. The child was taken to Chandina Upazila Health Complex in a bleeding condition and was later admitted to Cumilla Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment, she added. Following the incident, some local influential individuals allegedly sided with the accused and attempted to resolve the matter locally. They reportedly tried to suppress the incident by offering money to the child’s poor father, a rickshaw puller. As a result, the incident did not become widely known in the area for three days. The matter came to light on Tuesday after it spread by word of mouth. Later in the afternoon, journalists visited the spot and informed the police, prompting immediate action. Police subsequently arrested the accused, Tushar, without delay. Chandina Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Atikur Rahman said that police detained the accused as soon as they learned of the incident. He added that legal proceedings in this regard are currently underway.

Marginalised and low-income communities in Bangladesh face a severe healthcare crisis as potential medicine price hikes following the country’s LDC graduation threaten to halt their access to essential treatment. The findings were revealed in a research report presented today by ‘Bangladesh LDC Graduation Watch’ during a discussion meeting at the Economic Reporters Forum (ERF) auditorium in Dhaka. The session began with a minute of silence in memory of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, who passed away earlier this morning. The study, which focused on 100 low-income individuals from the Dalit community in Dhaka and tea workers in Srimangal, highlighted the crushing financial burden of healthcare- Income Depletion: Low-income families already spend an average of 33 percent of their monthly earnings on medicine. In extreme cases, such as cancer treatment, some families spend up to 135 percent of their total income. Treatment Discontinuation: Due to past price increases, 84 percent of women and 53 percent of men have already either stopped their treatment or reduced their dosages. Future Risks: If prices rise by another 20-30 percent, approximately 23 percent of women and 29 percent of men will be unable to afford any treatment. Furthermore, about 60 percent of both men and women indicated they would have to take loans to continue their medical care. Speaking at the event, Firoz Ahmed, a member of the Constitution Reform Committee, noted that while healthcare is a fundamental right in the constitution, it remains unenforceable by courts. He emphasized that the state must ensure medical treatment for all citizens before graduating from the LDC status. Pavel Partha, Director of BARCIK, warned that international trade agreements post-graduation, particularly the TRIPS Agreement, could cause immeasurable damage to the pharmaceutical sector. Additionally, representatives for tea and garment workers shared harrowing accounts of occupational health hazards, noting that workers often lose their ability to work after just 12 years and cannot afford the rising costs of medicines on their meager wages. Zakir Hossain, CEO of Nagorik Uddyog, concluded the meeting by pledging further research and advocacy to mitigate the negative impacts of LDC graduation on the country's most vulnerable populations.

Bangladesh Bank has finalised the scheme to merge five troubled Shariah-based banks into a single entity named ‘Sammilito Islami Bank PLC’. This newly formed bank will acquire First Security Islami Bank, Social Islami Bank, Union Bank, Global Islami Bank, and EXIM Bank. The central bank released the detailed resolution scheme on Tuesday, outlining a unique capital structure and a plan for depositor repayment. The policy sets the authorized capital of the new bank at Tk40,000 crore, with a paid-up capital of Tk35,000 crore. The capital will be divided into three classes of shareholders: Class A Shareholders: The government has provided Tk20,000 crore as capital, making it the primary shareholder. Class B Shareholders: Tk7,500 crore from the fixed deposits of institutional depositors (banks and financial institutions) within the five merging banks will be converted into shares. Class C Shareholders: Another Tk7,500 crore from the fixed deposits of other non-bank institutional depositors will also be converted into shares. However, certain entities are exempt from this mandatory share conversion. These include educational and religious institutions, hospitals, provident and gratuity funds, joint ventures, multinational companies, and foreign embassies. Protection for Individual Depositors: Bangladesh Bank has introduced specific measures to protect the interests of general depositors- Full Protection: Deposits up to Tk2.0 lakh are fully secured under the ‘Deposit Insurance Act’ and can be withdrawn at any time. Installment Withdrawals: For deposits exceeding Tk2.0 lakh, withdrawals from current and savings accounts will be allowed in installments over a period of 24 months. Humanitarian Exception: In a compassionate move, patients suffering from critical illnesses like cancer or those requiring kidney dialysis will be allowed to withdraw funds beyond the stipulated limits to cover medical expenses. The central bank also unveiled the logo of the newly formed "Sammilito Islami Bank" alongside the issuance of this notification. This merger marks a significant step by the regulator to stabilize the Islamic banking sector in Bangladesh.

Japanese Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Takaichi Sanae and Motegi Toshimitsu have expressed condolence at the passing of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Takaichi Sanae and Motegi Toshimitsu extended their messages of condolences to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain separately on Tuesday. They also expressed sincere condolences and paid tributes for Khaleda Zia for her endeavours which built the foundation for the development of Japan-Bangladesh relations for today. Khaleda Zia, the three-time prime minister, breathed her last around 6am at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka while undergoing treatment there. Meanwhile, the government announced a three-day national mourning and a holiday for Wednesday to show respect to Khaleda Zia. Her namaz-e-janaza will be held at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban at 2pm. Later, she will be laid to rest beside the grave of party founder and her husband former President Ziaur Rahman.

Bangladesh plunged into deep mourning on Tuesday as people from all walks of life--political leaders, business figures, social and cultural activists, and religious organisations -- mourned the passing of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, one of the most influential figures in the country’s political history. Reflecting the scale of national grief, the interim government led by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus announced a three-day national mourning, along with a public holiday on Wednesday, expressing profound shock at the loss. Condolences also poured in from different countries. Diplomatic missions stationed in Dhaka and several heads of government expressed their deep sympathies at the death of Khaleda Zia, wife of former Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and mother of BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, recalling his personal interaction with the former prime minister. “I recall my warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace,” he said in a condolence message, noting her enduring influence on Dhaka–Delhi relations. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he was deeply saddened by the passing of Khaleda Zia.“Her lifelong service to Bangladesh and its growth and development leaves a lasting legacy,” he said. Curtain falls on a political giant as Khaleda Zia passes into history A number of high-level foreign dignitaries from India, Pakistan, Bhutan and the Maldives are expected to attend Khaleda Zia’s funeral on Wednesday to pay their last respects. Among the likely attendees are Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. International media outlets also highlighted her death prominently. Alongside local media, global platforms such as Al Jazeera, DW, CNN and NDTV ran headlines and in-depth reports outlining her political journey and legacy. President Mohammed Shahabuddin described Khaleda Zia’s death as an irreparable loss to the nation. In a condolence message, he said her uncompromising role in establishing democracy and safeguarding the rights of people would remain memorable in Bangladesh’s political history, according to the President’s Office. He prayed for the eternal peace of her soul and expressed his deepest sympathy to the bereaved family. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus termed Khaleda Zia a towering figure in the country’s democratic movement. “With the sad demise of Begum Khaleda Zia, the nation has lost one of its most significant political guardians. I am deeply saddened and shocked by her death,” he said. He said that she was not merely a political leader but “an inseparable chapter in the history of Bangladesh,” noting that in recognition of her long struggle, historic contributions and the deep sentiment of the people, the government had earlier this month declared her a person of great national importance. Several advisers, including Syeda Rizwana Hasan, expressed deep sorrow at her passing. Her son and BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman paid an emotional tribute, remembering her as both a devoted mother and a steadfast guardian of the nation. “My mother, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, has responded to the call of Almighty Allah and left us today. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un (Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return),” he wrote in an emotional post on his verified Facebook page. Khaleda to be laid to rest beside Zia; Janaza at Parliament’s South Plaza BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also expressed shock and sorrow, while leaders from other political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman and the NCP Convener, conveyed their condolences, describing her death as a profound loss to the nation. Khaleda Zia breathed her last around 6:00 am on Tuesday while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Serving as chairperson of the BNP until her demise, she remained a formidable political force and, notably, never lost a national election since joining politics. As Bangladesh prepares to bid farewell, the outpouring of grief at home and abroad underscores Khaleda Zia’s enduring imprint on the nation’s political landscape and her lasting legacy in the history of Bangladesh.

More than 3 million individual taxpayers have so far submitted their income tax returns online for the current 2025–26 tax year, reflecting a sharp rise in the use of Bangladesh’s e-return system, according to the National Board of Revenue (NBR). The NBR said around 4.5 million taxpayers have already registered on the e-return platform, while over 3 million have completed submission of their returns through the system to date. The online filing initiative was formally inaugurated on 4 August 2025 by Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed via the NBR’s official portal, www.etaxnbr.gov.bd. Under a special order issued this year, online submission of income tax returns has been made mandatory for all categories of individual taxpayers, with specific exemptions. Those exempted include senior citizens aged 65 years and above, physically challenged and special needs taxpayers, Bangladeshis residing abroad, legal representatives filing returns on behalf of deceased taxpayers, and foreign nationals working in Bangladesh. However, the NBR noted that many taxpayers from the exempted categories are also voluntarily opting for online filing. Monthly data show a steady and significant increase in e-return submissions. In August 2025, 251,784 taxpayers filed returns online, followed by 301,302 in September and 454,076 in October. The number rose sharply in November to 1,040,472, while nearly 1 million taxpayers have already submitted e-returns in December so far. By comparison, only 1,002,298 taxpayers had filed e-returns during the same period last year. To facilitate taxpayers, the government has extended the deadline for filing income tax returns until 31 January 2026. The NBR expressed optimism that more than 4 million taxpayers will submit their returns within the extended timeframe this year. Although online filing is not compulsory for Bangladeshis living abroad, the NBR has introduced a simplified mechanism to bring them under the digital system. Expatriate taxpayers can apply for registration by emailing basic information such as passport number, national identity card number and email address to [email protected]. Upon verification, an OTP and registration link are sent to the applicant’s email address, enabling overseas Bangladeshis to register and submit their income tax returns online. In addition, authorised representatives are now able to file e-returns on behalf of taxpayers under the current system. The NBR highlighted that the e-return platform allows taxpayers to file returns without uploading any supporting documents. Taxpayers can directly enter accurate details of their income, expenditure, assets and liabilities into the system and pay taxes online using debit or credit cards, internet banking or mobile financial services such as bKash and Nagad. Upon submission, taxpayers can instantly generate and print an acknowledgement slip and an automated income tax certificate. If any error is detected in a submitted return, taxpayers can file a revised return directly through the e-return system within 180 days of the original submission. So far, nearly 30,000 taxpayers have already submitted revised returns for the 2025–26 tax year. To make the process more user-friendly, the NBR has arranged training programmes on the e-return system for taxpayers as well as authorised representatives, including income tax lawyers, chartered accountants, cost and management accountants, and chartered secretaries. A dedicated call centre has also been set up to provide real-time assistance, with taxpayers able to seek immediate support by calling 09643-71-71-71. In addition, taxpayers can report e-return-related issues in writing through the eTax Service option on the NBR website, while e-return help desks established at all tax zones across the country are providing services and guidance during office hours. The NBR has urged all individual taxpayers to use the e-return system and submit their income tax returns for the 2025–26 tax year by the extended deadline of 31 January 2026.

Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mian has taken responsibility for the treatment, safety and rehabilitation of two ailing siblings rescued from a roadside in Anwara upazila amid severe cold. The DC took charge of the children on Tuesday, directing officials to ensure medical care, protection and long-term rehabilitation. The children—four-year-old girl Ayesha and her two-year-old brother Morshed-were rescued on Sunday evening from the Majargate area of Barkhain union under the upazila. According to the girl, their home is in the Moulvir Dokan area of Satkania upazila. Their parents are Khoreshed Alam and Jhinuk Akhter. On Monday, a video showing the sister carrying her brother on lap sitting along a roadside circulated on social media, triggering huge criticism over the matter. After reports of the children’s condition on social media, the DC instructed Anwara Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Tahmina Akhter to take immediate action. Following primary treatment, the children were brought to the DC’s office on Tuesday. Despite being engaged in election-related duties, the DC reviewed the children’s physical condition and overall circumstances. Considering the boy’s severe weakness and illness, he was admitted to Chattogram General Hospital for further treatment. The DC also provided financial assistance to cover medical and immediate needs. Officials were instructed to ensure there is no negligence in the children’s care. The DC also directed the Department of Social Services to take steps for their safety and rehabilitation. The children were rescued by a local CNG-run auto-rickshaw driver, Mahim Uddin, who found them sitting by the roadside in the cold. His wife, Sharmin Akhter, said both children were ill and that the younger one is physically challenged, adding that they bathed the children with warm water and fed them, which provided some relief. After locals informed the administration, the district authorities moved swiftly to take measures, including treatment. In recognition of the rescue, the DC awarded Mahim Uddin Tk 10,000 in cash. Mahim said he rescued the children out of humanitarian concern, adding that the DC’s encouragement further motivated him. DC Zahidul said the administration would ensure the children are raised in a safe and secure environment with necessary support for their future. He said, “We all naturally love our own children the most. But those who can go beyond their own children and embrace the children of others are truly human.” Anwara Police Station Sub-Inspector Momen Kanti Dey said the DC’s actions reflected genuine humanitarian values.    

Russia’s nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile system has officially entered active service in Belarus, the Russian Defense Ministry announced Tuesday, as U.S.-led efforts to broker a resolution to the nearly four-year war in Ukraine reach a critical stage. A ministry video showed mobile intermediate-range ballistic missile vehicles conducting forest maneuvers as part of combat training. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko earlier confirmed the arrival of up to 10 Oreshnik systems in the country. Russian President Vladimir Putin had said the missiles would enter combat duty before year-end, warning that Moscow would pursue further gains in Ukraine if Kyiv and its Western allies rejected Russia’s peace demands. The announcement coincides with high-profile U.S.-mediated diplomacy. President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida over the weekend, describing Kyiv and Moscow as “closer than ever” to a deal, though major disputes remain over troop withdrawals and control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Putin previously tested a conventional Oreshnik strike in Ukraine in November 2024. He claims the missile’s multiple warheads reach speeds of up to Mach 10 and are virtually unstoppable, with conventional strikes potentially as devastating as nuclear ones. Moscow has warned the West that the missiles could target nations assisting Ukraine with long-range attacks on Russia. Belarusian authorities said the Oreshnik has a range of up to 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles). Russian media highlighted it could reach a Polish air base in 11 minutes and NATO headquarters in Brussels in 17. The missile’s payload—nuclear or conventional—cannot be verified before impact. The deployment underscores Belarus’ growing military and political dependence on Russia. Opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya criticized the move, while the country’s history of hosting Russian tactical nuclear weapons and the 2024 revised Russian nuclear doctrine further extend Moscow’s influence. Source: AP 

China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) continued large-scale military exercises around Taiwan on Tuesday, staging live-fire drills as part of “Justice Mission 2025” to signal its ability to deter external support for the island. Taiwanese authorities said some Chinese rounds landed closer to the island than in previous exercises. The drills disrupted civilian life, with Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Administration establishing seven temporary “danger zones,” leading to over 150 international and domestic flight delays or cancellations. The PLA’s Eastern Theater Command deployed destroyers, frigates, fighters, and bombers north and south of Taiwan, while ground forces conducted long-range live-fire drills. Command spokesperson Li Xi said the exercises achieved “desired effects.” Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reported detecting 130 Chinese aircraft, 14 military ships, eight other official vessels, and a Chinese balloon between Monday and Tuesday. Ninety aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. President Lai Ching-te condemned the drills, pledging Taiwan would act responsibly without provoking conflict. The exercises are part of a broader Chinese strategy to pressure Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its territory, and to challenge the Democratic Progressive Party’s arms purchases from the U.S. Last week, China imposed sanctions on 20 U.S. defense companies and 10 executives following a $10 billion arms sale to Taipei. Tensions also extended to Japan, as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized Tokyo for statements suggesting military involvement if China attacked Taiwan, calling for vigilance against “resurgence of Japanese militarism.” Locally, Taiwan’s fishing communities faced economic losses as the exercises restricted access to fishing zones. Chen Wen-chin of the Keelung District Fishermen’s Association said radio alerts were broadcast hourly to guide fishermen away from dangerous areas. Source: AP 

Australian authorities said Tuesday that the two men accused of killing 15 people at a Jewish event on Bondi Beach acted alone and were not part of a broader terrorist cell. Police confirmed that Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, traveled to the Philippines on November 1, arriving in Manila before transiting to Davao City, and returned to Sydney on November 29. Early investigations suggest they did not undergo training or logistical preparation for the December 14 attack, with authorities noting the pair “rarely left their hotel” during the visit. Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said CCTV footage from the Philippines is under review and initial assessments indicate the men acted independently. “There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell or were directed by others,” she said, adding that the investigation is ongoing and new information may emerge. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the alleged gunmen appeared motivated by Islamic State ideology. Sajid Akram was killed by police during the attack, while Naveed Akram, hospitalized afterward, faces 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder and one of committing a terrorist act, and is due in court in April. Source: BBC

Wall Street stocks remained mostly flat as trading for 2025 nears its conclusion. Early Tuesday, the Dow slipped 0.3%, the S&P 500 edged down 0.1%, and the Nasdaq rose slightly by less than 0.1%. The main activity, however, continues in the commodities market, where gold, silver, and copper recovered after steep losses the previous day. Gold rose 1.3%, silver surged 7.7%, and copper climbed 3%, while oil increased 0.6%. Monday’s declines followed the Chicago Mercantile Exchange’s request for traders to post additional funds to trade precious metals. Gold futures jumped 1.7% Tuesday after dropping 4.6% on Monday, marking over a 64% increase for the year. Silver futures advanced 7.7% after falling 8.7% and have more than doubled in 2025. Copper also regained some losses with a 3.1% gain and has risen more than 42% this year, its best annual performance in 16 years, driven by strong demand linked to energy infrastructure and AI technology. Mining stocks, including Freeport-McMoRan and Newmont, rebounded more than 2% following Monday’s pullback. In Tokyo, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi marked the final trading session of 2025, emphasizing Japan’s aim to attract global investment. The Nikkei 225 ended at 50,339.48, up nearly 25% for the year, its first year-end close above 50,000. With just two trading days remaining, many major investors have closed positions, keeping trading volumes light. Most global markets will be closed Thursday for New Year’s Day, with some also observing closures on Wednesday and Friday. In early European trading, Germany’s DAX was nearly flat at 24,348.38, Britain’s FTSE 100 gained 0.1% to 9,876.73, and Paris’ CAC 40 remained largely unchanged at 8,112.37. In Asia, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rose 0.9% to 25,854.60, while Shanghai Composite stayed steady at 3,965.51. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 dipped 0.1% to 8,717.10, South Korea’s Kospi fell 0.2% to 4,214.17, Taiwan’s Taiex dropped 0.4%, and India’s Sensex was nearly flat. U.S. crude oil gained 27 cents to $58.35 per barrel, though it has fallen nearly 20% this year. Brent crude increased 26 cents to $61.75 per barrel. Source: AP 

Nepal has announced it will end its long-standing deposit scheme that required climbers to pay $4,000, refundable only if they brought back at least 8kg of waste from Mount Everest, calling it a failure after 11 years. Authorities said the program had “not shown tangible results” and became an administrative burden, despite most climbers returning some trash. Officials noted that the scheme mainly ensured waste removal from lower camps, while higher camps — where the garbage problem is worst — remained largely unmonitored. Climbers at high altitudes typically bring back only oxygen bottles, leaving tents, cans, and food packaging behind. Each climber produces an average of 12kg of waste during expeditions that last up to six weeks. Nepal plans a new system under which climbers will pay a non-refundable clean-up fee, likely $4,000, to fund checkpoints at higher camps and deploy mountain rangers to ensure trash is returned. The initiative is part of a five-year mountain clean-up action plan aimed at tackling the growing environmental impact of climbing tourism, as thousands of climbers and support staff ascend Everest each year. Tourism officials said the revised approach will create a dedicated fund for clean-up and monitoring, responding to long-standing concerns from the Sherpa community over the ineffectiveness of the deposit scheme. Source: BBC

The Election Commission has extended the registration time by five days till January 5 next for expatriates and other entitled voters to vote through the postal ballots during the upcoming national election and referendum, slated for February 12, 2026. “Now the deadline for the postal ballot registration is December 31. But the time for postal ballot registration has extended to January 5. The registration will be closed at 12:00am after January 5 Midnight,” EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed told journalists at Nirbachan Bhaban in the capital. He said the time was extended on requests from the expatriates and the entitled voters from inside the country. 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. The Election Commission opened the ‘Postal Vote Bd’ app for the Out-of-Country Voting (OCV) on November 19 and for the In-Country Postal Voting (ICPV) on December 17. More than one million eligible voters including some 631,000 expatriates registered their names to vote through the postal ballots in the upcoming national election and the referendum, scheduled to be held simultaneously on February 12, 2026. A total of 1,082,541 voters, including 137,317 females registered through the ‘Postal Vote Bd’ app till 8:38pm on Tuesday. Among the 450,632 voters who registered from inside the country, as many as 367,248 are government employees, 72,512 solely polling personnel, 5,842 Ansar and VDP members and 5,030 prisoners. 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 papers was 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).

Dhaka University is in mourning following the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairperson of the BNP. Her passing has plunged teachers, students, officers, and staff of the university into deep grief and sorrow. The Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice-Chancellors, and Treasurer of the university have expressed their condolences. In addition, banners expressing mourning have been displayed in various residential halls, and special prayers are being offered at mosques. The Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) has also expressed its condolences and called for prayer gatherings in all mosques on campus, seeking the eternal peace of Begum Khaleda Zia, described as a “symbol of uncompromising struggle.” In order to pay the highest respect and honor to Khaleda Zia-hailed as a “symbol of national unity”, the university authorities have declared three days of mourning at Dhaka University from Tuesday through Thursday. During this period, all classes and examinations at the university have been suspended. As part of the mourning observance, the national flag at the university is being flown at half-mast. As part of the mourning program, a condolence meeting will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the auditorium of the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building. To organize the meeting, a five-member committee has been formed with Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed as its convener. Curtain falls on a political giant as Khaleda Zia passes into history In a condolence message, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan said that Begum Khaleda Zia devoted her entire life to the welfare of the country and the nation. Her tireless struggle and dedication to establishing democracy and people’s rights will continue to guide future generations for ages to come. As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, she served the country and the nation and always stood by the side of ordinary people. Her unparalleled contributions to the country and the nation will remain eternally memorable. The Vice-Chancellor prayed for the eternal peace of Begum Khaleda Zia and expressed his deepest sympathy to the bereaved family members.

One of the iconic figures in Bangladesh’s political history, BNP Chairperson and three-time former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, known as an uncompromising leader, lifelong fighter and true patriot, passed away on Tuesday morning (December 30, 2025). She was 80. Her long and turbulent political journey came to a solemn end at 6:00am on Tuesday at Evercare Hospital, where she had been receiving treatment for 37 days. “The BNP Chairperson breathed her last at 6:00am,” AKM Wahiduzzaman, the party’s ICT Affairs Secretary, said early in the morning. Her death was later confirmed by the medical board and senior party leaders. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our esteemed Chairperson,” said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul, his voice choked with emotion. Read more: Khaleda to be laid to rest beside Zia; Janaza at Parliament’s South Plaza She is survived by her eldest son Tarique Rahman, three granddaughters, and millions of supporters and admirers. Her long political career has left a lasting mark on Bangladesh’s political landscape and inspired generations. Shockwave in Winter Morning Widow of slain President and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, Khaleda Zia had long been woven into the fabric of Bangladesh’s political drama — its rises, ruptures, hopes, and hostilities. Her final months were marked by an unrelenting battle against pneumonia, chronic lung infections and persistent cardiac complications. News of her death spread quickly through the city in the early hours, cutting through the cold winter morning and heavy fog. People across the country were stunned. Silence fell, while scenes of grief unfolded inside and outside the hospital. A deep sense of grief swept across Bangladesh with condolence messages pouring in from leaders at home and abroad. The BNP announced seven days of mourning over the death of its long-time leader. The government has declared three days of national mourning, including a general holiday on Wednesday. As per the BNP Standing Committee’s decision, Khaleda Zia’s namaz-e-janaza will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday at the South Plaza of the National Parliament and Manik Mia Avenue in the capital. She will be buried with full state honours at Chandrima Udyan beside the grave of her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, at 3:30pm. Khaleda Zia led the BNP for 41 years and earned the title of the ‘uncompromising leader’ during the anti-autocracy movement of the 1990s. She served as a Member of Parliament five times -- Prime Minister three times and Leader of the Opposition twice. Read more: Jaishankar to represent India to pay last respect to ex-PM Khaleda Wednesday Starting her political journey as a homemaker, Khaleda spent much of her over four-decade political life on the streets, leading movements and facing arrests and imprisonment, but never leaving the country. She never lost an election she contested. The BNP chief had been suffering from multiple chronic illnesses, including liver and kidney complications, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and infections. She was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23. As her condition worsened, her elder son, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, and other family members rushed to the hospital late Monday night. Shortly after 2:00am, Khaleda Zia’s personal physician, AZM Zahid Hossain, told reporters that she was passing through an ‘extremely critical time’ and requested the nation to pray for her recovery. A few hours later, doctors declared her dead. Family members, including Tarique Rahman, his wife Zubaida Rahman, their daughter Zaima Rahman, the family of her late son Arafat Rahman Koko, her siblings, and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, were present at the hospital at the time. Doctors, nurses and hospital staff were seen in tears as the news broke. The news spread rapidly on social media, with people from all walks of life expressing grief. BNP leaders, activists and supporters gathered outside the hospital in large numbers. Read more: Khaleda Zia: 41 years at BNP’s helm - an uncompromising leader At around 9am, the head of the medical board Prof Shahabuddin Talukder said with a choked voice that the medical team tried their best for more than a month, but Khaleda Zia was declared clinically dead at 6:00am. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the loss is ‘irreparable’ and something the nation would never be able to overcome. Govt’s Reactions Fakhrul said Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus had called him to express condolences. BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi announced a seven-day mourning programme following the death of Khaleda. As part of the programme, black flags will be hoisted at all party offices across the country for a week starting Tuesday while party leaders and activists will wear black badges and Quran khatam and prayers will be held nationwide during the period. Condolence books were opened at BNP’s central office, Chairperson’s Gulshan office and other party offices across the country. Read more: Top foreign dignitaries to attend Khaleda Zia’s funeral An emergency meeting of the Advisory Council was held in the afternoon, where Mirza Fakhrul attended as a special guest. The meeting began with a minute’s silence, and decisions were taken regarding state mourning and funeral arrangements. Law Adviser Asif Nazrul said Khaleda Zia’s contribution to the country would remain unforgettable. The BNP Standing Committee also held an emergency meeting chaired by Tarique Rahman. BNP offices at Naya Paltan, Gulshan and elsewhere witnessed emotional scenes as leaders and supporters broke down in tears. Tarique’s Tributes Meanwhile, Tarique Rahman paid an emotional tribute to Khaleda, remembering her as a tender and loving mother who was also a steadfast guardian for her family and the nation. “My mother, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, has responded to the call of Almighty Allah and left us today. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un (Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return),” he wrote in an emotional post on his verified Facebook page. Read more: Vehicular movement to be restricted while Khaleda Zia’s body transported in city To many, he said, she was the leader of the nation, an uncompromising leader, the ‘Mother of Democracy’, the ‘Mother of Bangladesh’. “To me, Khaleda Zia was a tender and loving mother who devoted her entire life to the country and its people. Throughout her life, she stood firm against autocracy, fascism, and domination, leading the struggle for freedom, sovereignty, and the restoration of democracy,” he said. Though her life was illuminated by sacrifice and struggle, Tarique said at home Khaleda was their truest guardian, a mother whose infinite love gave them strength in their darkest moments. He said Khaleda endured repeated arrests, denial of medical care, and relentless persecution. “Yet even in pain, confinement, and uncertainty, she never stopped sheltering her family with courage and compassion. Her resilience was not loud, but it was unbreakable.” For the country, Tarique said she lost her husband and lost her child. “In that loss, this nation and its people became her family, her purpose, her very soul. She leaves behind an unforgettable legacy of patriotism, sacrifice, and resistance, a legacy that will live on in the democratic conscience of Bangladesh.” Khaleda’s Legacy Khaleda Zia leaves behind a legacy as a steadfast leader, a symbol of resilience and patriotism, and one of the most influential states persons in Bangladesh’s history. History rarely announces its chosen figures in advance. BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has proven it. Her life was a testament to resilience, determination and leadership, marked by an unwavering commitment to democracy and deep patriotism. Read more: Tarique, other family members were by Khaleda’s side during her demise Starting as a homemaker, she entered politics seven months after the assassination of her husband, late President and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and rose to become Bangladesh’s first female Prime Minister in less than a decade. Over a political career spanning nearly 43 years, she faced personal tragedies, imprisonment and political turbulence, yet remained a steadfast leader and a unifying symbol of democracy in Bangladesh. She led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for 41 consecutive years as its chairperson, shaping not only her own remarkable political journey but also the course of the nation’s turbulent politics. Khaleda Zia, who entered politics with no prior political experience following the assassination of her husband and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman in 1981, went on to shape a remarkable 43-year political journey. Analysts describe her as a charismatic and uncompromising leader. She led a long struggle against military rule under HM Ershad, forming a seven-party alliance that played a key role in his fall. Her political journey was not without hardships. She endured imprisonment, family tragedies—including the deaths of her husband and younger son, Arafat Rahman Koko—and repeated political harassment. Read more: BNP to open condolence book for Khaleda Zia at Gulshan office Even when the army-backed government in 2007 offered her opportunities to return to power or to go abroad, she firmly refused, saying that Bangladesh was her only home and the place where she wished to live until her death. Through this stance, she emerged as a symbol of resilience, integrity and national unity. Khaleda Zia was also known for her pragmatic approach. She supported dialogue and compromise when necessary, including the introduction of a neutral caretaker government system into the constitution, even when initially opposed within her party. She skillfully led BNP through multiple alliances, protests and elections, balancing strategic decisions with her principles. From Putul to Unifying Figure Born on August 15, 1945, as Khaleda Khan and nicknamed ‘Putul’ by her family, she married Ziaur Rahman in 1960 and became a widow at 36, raising her two sons, Tarique Rahman and Arafat Rahman, while gradually emerging as a decisive political leader. Throughout her leadership of BNP, Khaleda Zia earned respect not only from her followers but also across political parties. Analysts describe her as a unifying figure, a champion of democracy, and a symbol of perseverance who transformed Bangladesh’s political landscape, paving the way for women to lead at the highest level. Read more: Khaleda’s Death: Govt announces 3-day state mourning, general holiday Wednesday Khaleda Zia was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23 due to heart and lung infections and passed away at 6:00 pm on Tuesday. She was nominated for three constituencies—Dinajpur-3, Feni-1 and Bogura-7—for the upcoming 13th parliamentary election, although her party also fielded alternative candidates in view of her critical health condition.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has expressed deep shock at the sad demise of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. On behalf of the DMP, its commissioner SM Sazzat Ali conveyed the sadness. As a three day state mourning will be observed showing respect to Khaleda Zia from Wednesday to Friday. Considering the situation, the DMP commissioner has issued the instructions exercising his powers conferred by Sections 28 and 29 of the DMP Ordinance. 1. During that time, all types of fireworks, bursting of crackers, flying lanterns and gas balloons have been banned in the DMP area. 2. No cultural programmes, DJ parties, rallies or processions can be held in open spaces. 3. Loud honking of car horns or any other activity that creates public nuisance is prohibited. The DMP seeks the full cooperation of the respected city residents to observe the mourning.

American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the second female head of government in the Muslim world. Her exemplary leadership marked a defining chapter in Bangladesh’s modern history. She broke barriers and reshaped the legacy of women’s leadership in South Asia and beyond. “We remember her national leadership and democratic legacy in shaping the economy, education, and nation-building. We believe the nation will remain united and draw lessons from her resilience, empathy, and dedication to public life. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to her bereaved family during this time of profound loss,” said AmCham President and Executive Committee.          

Leaders of Bangladesh's premier business organizations and trade bodies have expressed profound grief and shock following the demise of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. In separate tributes, the country’s top industrial representatives hailed her as a monumental figure in Bangladesh’s economic and democratic evolution. FBCCI: A Grateful Nation Remembers The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the nation's apex trade body, issued a heartfelt condolence message. FBCCI Administrator Md. Abdur Rahim Khan stated that the nation would forever remember her tireless struggle and immense contributions toward establishing democracy and safeguarding the rights of the people. He noted that her leadership provided a stable foundation for the country's commercial growth. BGMEA & BKMEA: Icon of Economic Liberation The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) president Mahmud Hasan Khan, stated that her role in the nation’s overall development and the economic liberation of the common people is "written in golden letters" in the history of Bangladesh. Similarly, BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem described her as an icon of the democratic struggle, noting that her contributions to the country's industrial infrastructure were "indescribable." DCCI & BTMA: A Loss for the Global Muslim Community The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), led by President Ashraf Ahmed, and the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), under President Showkat Aziz Russell, highlighted her historic milestone as the first elected female Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the second in the Muslim world. They emphasized her lifelong commitment to establishing the socio-economic rights that modern businesses now rely upon. DSE & BASIS: Symbols of Integrity and Courage The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) leadership, including Chairman Mominul Islam and Managing Director (MD) Nuzhat Anwar, praised her "unwavering commitment to honesty and public welfare," particularly her role in strengthening the national economic framework. BASIS Administrator Abul Khair Mohammed Hafizullah Khan added that the nation has lost a "brave guardian" and a "shining star" who never compromised on the dignity of the people. BAJUS: The End of an Era Enamul Haque Khan, President of the Bangladesh Jewellers’ Association (BAJUS), described her passing as the "end of an era." He remarked that she was not merely a political leader but a significant chapter of Bangladesh’s history whose loss has created a void that can never be filled. Across the board, these organizations extended their deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and the people of Bangladesh, praying for the eternal peace of her soul.

Jahangirnagar University (JU) has announced a one-day general holiday and will keep the national flag at half-mast for three days following the death of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. The decision was announced in a press release signed by Acting Registrar ABM Azizur Rahman on Tuesday. According to the release, in line with the government’s declaration, all classes and examinations at the university will remain suspended on Wednesday (December 31). All administrative offices will also remain closed on the day. The press release further said that the Government of Bangladesh has declared a three-day state mourning from December 31 to January 2 over the demise of the former prime minister. As part of the observance, the national flag will be flown at half-mast across the Jahangirnagar University campus during the mourning period. In addition, special prayers will be offered for the salvation of her departed soul. A doa mahfil will be held at all mosques on the campus after Jumma prayers on Friday (January 2). Special prayers will also be arranged at other religious places of worship seeking eternal peace for the deceased. Khaleda Zia passed away at 6:00am on Tuesday (December 30) while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the capital.

Israel announced Tuesday it will halt operations of more than two dozen humanitarian organizations in Gaza, including Doctors Without Borders (MSF), starting Jan. 1, citing their failure to meet new vetting rules. The Ministry of Diaspora Affairs said the organizations did not provide sufficient details on staff, funding, and operations. Israel accused some MSF staff of alleged ties to Hamas and other militant groups, claims the group has strongly denied. The ministry noted that about 25 organizations, representing 15% of NGOs operating in Gaza, will not have their permits renewed. International organizations criticized Israel’s rules as arbitrary and warned that they could put aid workers at risk. Tensions have escalated over aid in Gaza since the two-year war ended with a ceasefire on Oct. 10. Israel maintains it is fulfilling aid commitments under the ceasefire, while humanitarian groups say more assistance is urgently needed for the territory’s two million residents. Doctors Without Borders said in 2024 it took allegations of staff involvement in military activities “very seriously” and reiterated it would never knowingly employ individuals engaged in such actions.

European and Canadian leaders met virtually Tuesday to discuss U.S.-led efforts to end the nearly four-year conflict between Russia and Ukraine, amid rising tensions over Russian claims, denied by Kyiv, of a drone attack on a residence used by President Vladimir Putin. The talks included European heads of state, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and European institution leaders. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that while “peace is on the horizon,” it is not guaranteed. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that transparency is required from all parties, including Russia. The meeting followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s hosting of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Florida resort on Sunday, during which Trump said Ukraine and Russia are “closer than ever” to a peace agreement. The Russian allegations involved a reported attack by Ukraine on a lakeside residence in Novgorod’s Dolgie Borody area, 400 kilometers northwest of Moscow. Kyiv called the claims false, and Kremlin officials accused Ukraine of attempting to undermine U.S. peace efforts. Observers warn the accusations could disrupt negotiations. According to the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War, Moscow has sought to prolong talks to continue its military campaign, avoid pressure from the U.S., and extract concessions on bilateral relations.

Traffic will remain restricted on several roads in the capital on Wednesday due to the movement of the convoy carrying the body of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, according to Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP). The funeral prayer (Namaj-e-Janaja) of Begum Khaleda Zia is scheduled to be held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building after Zuhr prayer on Wednesday, says a DMP media release. As per the DMP, the body will be taken from Evercare Hospital to the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building in the morning. The convoy will pass through Evercare Hospital, 36 July Expressway, Kuril Flyover, Navy Headquarters, residence Firoza, Gulshan-2, Kamal Ataturk Avenue, Airport Road, Mohakhali Flyover, Jahangir Gate, Bijoy Sarani, and the Aeroplane Crossing, before entering the South Plaza through Gate No. 6 of the National Parliament Building. Traffic restrictions have been imposed on the relevant roads during the movement of the convoy. The DMP has sought cooperation from the public to avoid inconvenience. The information was disclosed in a media release issued by DMP on Tuesday evening, signed by its Deputy Commissioner (Media) Talebur Rahman.