United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday (November 13) said that the national election and the referendum will be held simultaneously in the first half of February next year. “The referendum will take place in the first half of February simultaneously with the general election. This will not in any way hinder the goals of reform; rather, it will make the election more festive and cost-effective,” he said in an address to the nation in the afternoon. “Appropriate law will be formulated in due time to facilitate the holding of the referendum. We are taking all-out preparations to hold the election in a festive atmosphere,” the Chief Adviser added. To implement the July Charter, the government has adopted several key provisions in the order, he said, adding, “These include holding a referendum on the charter’s proposed constitutional reforms and subsequently forming a Constitutional Reform Council.” Dr Yunus said the interim government, in a meeting of the Council of Advisers, approved the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order, 2025. “After the completion of necessary signings, it has reached the stage of issuing a gazette. It’s great news,” he added. CA Prof Yunus to address nation at 2:30 pm In line with the July Charter, the government has also finalised the question to be presented on the referendum ballot, Prof Yunus said. The question will be as follows: “Do you approve the July National Charter Constitutional Reform Implementation Order, 2025, and the following proposals regarding constitutional reforms as enlisted in the July National Charter?” a) During the election period, the caretaker government, Election Commission, and other constitutional bodies will be formed in accordance with the procedures outlined in the July Charter. b) The next parliament will be bicameral. Based on the proportion of votes received in the national election, a 100-member upper house will be formed, and any constitutional amendment will require the approval of the majority of the upper house members. c) The political parties that win the next election will be obligated to implement the 30 reform proposals agreed upon in the July National Charter, including increased female representation in parliament, election of the deputy speaker and parliamentary committee chairs from the opposition, limitation of the prime minister’s tenure, enhancement of presidential powers, expansion of fundamental rights, independence of the judiciary, and strengthening of local government. d) Other reforms outlined in the July Charter will be implemented as per the commitments of the political parties. “On the day of the referendum, you will express your opinion on these four issues by casting a single vote — either ‘yes’ or ‘no,’” said Prof Yunus. If a majority votes “yes,” a Constitutional Reform Council will be formed, comprising the representatives elected in the upcoming parliamentary election. These representatives will also serve as members of the national parliament. The council will complete the constitutional reform process within 180 working days from the date of its first session, he added. ICT sets Nov 17 to deliver verdict on Hasina case Within 30 working days after the reform is completed, an upper house will be constituted based on the proportion of votes received in the parliamentary election, and its term will continue until the final working day of the lower house, he said. In accordance with the pledge to implement the July Charter, provisions will be made to incorporate the July National Charter into the Constitution, he added. “This inclusion has also been specified in today’s approved order.”

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday underscored the critical role of labour reforms in attracting large-scale foreign direct investment to Bangladesh.  Speaking at a discussion followed by dinner, he reaffirmed the interim government’s commitment to implementing key reforms, aligned with International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, before the upcoming national election in February. The high-level dinner hosted at the Bangladesh Permanent Mission to the United Nations brought together diplomats, UN officials and senior political leaders from Bangladesh for a focused dialogue on labour laws, workers’ rights, and ongoing reform efforts in the country. Leaders from three major political parties in Bangladesh participated, contributing to an open and constructive exchange on labour issues. The discussion, moderated by Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy to the Chief Adviser, included comments from the Director-General of the ILO and senior representatives from various UN agencies. Participants commented on the broader implications of labour reform for Bangladesh’s economic future and international standing, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. Before the formal address by the Chief Adviser, political leaders from the three major parties were invited to share informal remarks.  Each emphasised the importance of the garment industry and expressed support for continued labour sector reform. Key issues that Prof Yunus may raise in UNGA speech Friday  

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday joined the 'Stakeholders’ Dialogue' on the Rohingya situation here in the beach town of Cox’s Bazar that called for joint efforts to ensure sustainable peace in Myanmar and in the region, dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas, addressing the challenges on multiple fronts. The special session, as part of the three-day conference, began at 11am. A one-minute silence was observed on the occasion of ‘Rohingya Genocide Remembrance Day.’ A documentary was also screened on the Rohingya crisis. Speaking at the event, High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and National Security Adviser of Bangladesh Dr Khalilur Rahman called for concrete international action to ensure safe and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas to their place of origin in Myanmar. Prof Yunus to join 'Stakeholders’ Dialogue' on Rohingya crisis in Cox’s Bazar today "We need to continue what we are doing," Khalilur Rahman said. The three-day international conference titled 'Stakeholders’ Dialogue: Takeaways to the High-Level Conference on Rohingya Situation' began in Cox’s Bazar on Sunday with the aim of engaging global stakeholders to find solutions to the prolonged Rohingya crisis. The first day's programme included a special interactive session with Rohingya representatives on confidence-building measures towards a conducive environment for the repatriation of Rohingyas. Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam was among attendees in the session where Rohingya representatives from different camps in Bangladesh as well as Rohingya diaspora also joined. The programme was moderated by Rohingya community leaders Lucky Karim, Mohammed Rofique (Khin Maung) and Omar Salma. Soyedullah, Furquan Mirza, Abdullah, Hujjout Ullah, Sahat Zia Hero, Abdul Amin, Jaitun Nara, Jihin Noor and Abdullah and Ro Mujif Khan spoke at the session. The Rohingya diaspora also spoke in the session. This session was earmarked for the Rohingya representatives. UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar Thomas H Andrews joined the session. Three-day global dialogue on Rohingya crisis begins in Cox’s Bazar Sunday Among others, representatives from the resident diplomatic Missions, UN agencies, international organisations, media, experts and civil society joined the session. United Nations Resident Coordinator (UNRC-a.i.) Rana Flowers, Head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) Nicholas Koumjian, and Assistant High Commissioner, UNHCR Raouf Mazou also attended the session. Representatives from major political parties, including BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e Islami, NCP, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, and Gono Odhikar Parishad, also joined it.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will speak at the 'Stakeholders’ Dialogue' on the Rohingya situation here in the beach town of Cox’s Bazar this (Monday) morning. The special session, as part of the three-day conference, will begin at 11am. The three-day international conference titled 'Stakeholders’ Dialogue: Takeaways to the High-Level Conference on Rohingya Situation' began in Cox’s Bazar on Sunday with the aim of engaging global stakeholders to find solutions to the prolonged Rohingya crisis. The first day's programme included a special interactive session with Rohingya representatives on confidence-building measures towards a conducive environment for the repatriation of Rohingyas. High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and National Security Adviser of Bangladesh Khaliur Rahman and Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam were among attendees in the session where Rohingya representatives from different camps in Bangladesh as well as Rohingya diaspora also joined. Cox’s Bazar cannot take more: Repatriation roadmap called for on 8th anniversary of Rohingya exodus The programme was moderated by Rohingya community leaders Lucky Karim, Mohammed Rofique (Khin Maung) and Omar Salma. Soyedullah, Furquan Mirza, Abdullah, Hujjout Ullah, Sahat Zia Hero, Abdul Amin, Jaitun Nara, Jihin Noor and Abdullah and Ro Mujif Khan spoke at the session. The Rohingya diaspora also spoke in the session. This session was earmarked for the Rohingya representatives. UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar Thomas H Andrews joined the session. Among others, representatives from the resident diplomatic Missions, UN agencies, international organisations, media, experts and civil society joined the session. United Nations Resident Coordinator (UNRC-a.i.) Rana Flowers, Head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) Nicholas Koumjian, and Assistant High Commissioner, UNHCR Raouf Mazou also attended the session. Rohingya Crisis: Bangladesh says funding beyond traditional sources to be explored Representatives from major political parties, including BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e Islami, NCP, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, and Gono Odhikar Parishad, also joined it.

Expressing the hope to boost financial and investment ties between Bangladesh and Malaysia, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday urged Malaysia to keep its door open for Bangladeshi workers. In response, during a joint press meet after the official talks and signing of five MoUs and exchanging three notes, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said they consider Bangladesh an important partner as its workers are playing a key role in working together and contributing to the development of the two nations. “We want to thank Malaysia for hosting so many of our people and we hope this door will remain open and become wider so that we can host many other young people to come and work in Malaysia and learn a lot,” Prof Yunus said. He said Bangladeshi workers who come to Malaysia learn many things and when they go back home start their own businesses and launch their own economic activities. “So, we are very grateful to Malaysia for doing that.” The Chief Adviser said Bangladesh and Malaysia are getting closer and closer for many other reasons, particularly because many Bangladeshi workers are working here. He said the workers send their income back to Bangladesh, which provides sustainability for their lives and their families, helping them send their children to school and get a good education. “It's not workers coming from outside – let them work. It's not like that. They're very happy to work here, The Chief Adviser said. Prof Yunus said Bangladesh is open for business and there is tremendous opportunity for Malaysian entrepreneurs to invest in Bangladesh. “We are looking for investment from Malaysia and that's what we've been discussing. We have our own human resources that we can offer and also technology that we can offer in Bangladesh,” he said. Prof Yunus also said Malaysia can invest in Bangladesh and manufacture products to sell to the rest of the world. Bangladesh, Malaysia sign 5 MoUs, exchange 3 notes on energy, defence and more “So, this is one we're hoping will get a close relationship in financial and investment issues in Bangladesh. Widening up our opportunities so that we build an economy which will be sustainable and which will be a high-growth economy. We are waiting for that,” he said. The Chief Adviser said they went through a list of all the ideas and issues they want to work on together with Malaysia, both culturally and multilaterally. “So, we're very happy. We want to thank the people of Malaysia for the support they have provided to us in Bangladesh.” Prof Yunus said his interim government restored order and the economy in Bangladesh. “We restored institutions to function within just about a year. So, now we are ready for elections.” He said his government will hold the national election in the middle of February next year to elect a new government and ensure normal running of the country. “So, there we need lots of support and we are looking forward to Malaysia's support always -- we bank on them.” Earlier, speaking at the press conference, Anwar Ibrahim praised Prof Yunus for making remarkable progress in ensuring peace and security in the country. “He (Yunus) is now continuing the collaboration to enhance relations in investment, trade, culture and education with Malaysia,” he said. “We have placed Bangladesh as an important partner because your workers have been instrumental too in working together and contributing to your development,” said Anwar Ibrahim. He said they have continued energy cooperation with PETRONAS, and with Axiata in the telecommunications sector. “Now, we want to strengthen this into Halal, STEM, research and semiconductors.” The Malaysian Prime Minister said their Home Affairs Minister along with the Human Resources Minister have agreed on a Multiple Entry Visa facility, mainly to assist workers so they can meet their families and feel secure in their jobs. Prof Yunus holds official talks with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim “You (CA) have made some proposals and were given priority, particularly to assist the stranded workers,” he said. Anwar recalled that his delegation stopped over in Dhaka in October last year to show his country’s commitment to ensure that Bangladesh, a great country with enormous potential and a great friend of Malaysia, can secure peace and promote progress and development for their people. Anwar said Prof Yunus is known in Malaysia for his indefatigable work to secure a place for the underprivileged and the poor, including microcredit and also education at the Albukhary International University in Kedah. Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Energy Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy on International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam are, among others, accompanying the Chief Adviser. Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim receives Prof Yunus at Putrajaya as red carpet rolls out Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) Administrator Md Hafizur Rahman and Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) President Shabbir A Khan were also present.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, now in New York, has said the July Uprising paved the way for a fairer and more inclusive Bangladesh under the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus. "Our government, drawing its strength and legitimacy from citizens across all spectrums of our life was entrusted with a singular mandate: to rebuild the foundations of our republic that serves all its people," he said. The Foreign Affairs Adviser was speaking at an event 'July Beyond Border' at the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the UN on July 28. Over the past one year, he said, they have taken decisive steps to that end. 'We have repealed laws that stifled dissenting voices and eroded public trust. We have embarked on constitutional reform to ensure that no future regime can compromise the rights of people," Hossain said. He said they are overhauling the electoral process to restore credibility, inclusiveness, and the sanctity of the people’s choice. "We have initiated institutional repair, reviving the independence of our courts and commissions. And most importantly, we have created real space for young people to lead," Hossain said. Prof Yunus launches July Uprising commemoration prog with QR code He said the youth who once led the protest rallies are now designing programmes, driving digital innovations, and helping them chart their governance and development policies. "When young people are trusted, they can change our societies for the better. They are the ultimate beacon of hope in times of political inertia or crises of public trust," Hossain said, adding that this is where the story of July resonates far beyond their borders. "This is where our journey intersects with everyone else’s." Hossain said their experience with youth leadership is relatable in the comity of nations too. "Our story deeply aligns with global frameworks that have strong focus on youth. To us, Youth, Peace and Security agenda, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, or more recent Pact for the Future are not abstract aspirations. They speak directly of our lived reality," he said. The Foreign Adviser said, "Let us move beyond just commemoration and celebration. Let us continue this conversation – here, and beyond these walls." He also said, "Let us invest in policies, platforms, and partnerships that place youth at the heart of leadership. Their courage, energy, and creativity will illuminate our path toward a more peaceful, just, and sustainable world." A year on: How the July Uprising redefined Bangladesh’s political landscape Hossain said just one year ago, the nation witnessed the profound power of youths. "A movement led by our students ignited a mass upsurge and was embraced by every segment of our society," he said, adding that their call for opportunity, equity and transparency soon evolved into a popular aspiration for systemic transformation across the country, leading to the ouster of a regime that had become completely autocratic.

Executive Senior Vice President of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Miyazaki Katsura on Thursday said Bangladesh remains one of Japan’s most important partners in Asia and reaffirmed Japan’s continued support for Bangladesh’s development journey. "We deeply mourn the lives lost and those injured in July, (uprising)” she told Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus during a meeting at State Guest House Jamuna. Prof Yunus urged Japan to further strengthen its cooperation with Bangladesh in areas such as investment, fisheries, Rohingya humanitarian response and youth development, including education and sports. “Japan has always been a trusted friend. I recently visited your country and I was deeply touched by the warmth and hospitality extended to me and my delegation,” said Prof Yunus. During the meeting, the Chief Adviser highlighted the importance of the Matarbari project, describing it as the “most important region for our country’s future”. Prof Yunus seeks JICA’s greater support for MIDI He emphasised Bangladesh’s maritime potential. “When I spoke with the JICA President in Japan, I told him that we wanted to become a sea-based economy,” he added. Prof Yunus also requested Japan to increase scholarships for Bangladeshi young people to study in Japan, as well as expand opportunities for employment. “Many young people can go to Japan for work too. The issue is language. We proposed that Japanese teachers come here or offer distance learning so our people can learn Japanese language and workplace etiquette,” he said. The Chief Adviser also raised concerns about the situation of Rohingya refugees. “It is a sad situation. Thousands of young people are growing up in camps with no hope. They are becoming frustrated and angry.” he said. Miyazaki said JICA is focusing on supporting reforms in Bangladesh’s judiciary, public administration, local government and health sector as the country prepares for its graduation from LDC status in 2026. She added JICA has taken up a Bangladesh focused project in an effort to introduce advanced ICT human resource training in collaboration with local governments, companies and universities in both countries. JICA warns against fraudulent activities circulating on online platforms On youth development, the Chief Adviser highlighted Bangladesh’s success in women’s sports. “Our girls are winning everywhere. Yesterday they won another match and reached the final. We are increasing hostel facilities but need help for their health and training as well,” he said. Miyazaki responded positively, stating that Japan is already sending volunteers for schooling projects in many countries and will consider further cooperation in women’s sports. During the meeting, the Chief Adviser thanked Japan for signing the recent Loan and Grant Agreements worth over USD 1 billion for economic reforms, railway construction, and human resource development, and requested an increase in Japan’s annual ODA threshold from 300 billion to 450 billion JPY to implement more development projects. “Bangladesh will always remember Japan’s friendship and contributions,” Prof Yunus said.

The Council of Advisers at a meeting on Sunday decided to celebrate ‘July Shaheed Day’ on July 16 and ‘Mass Uprising Day’ on August 5.  There will be no special celebrations for August 8, said Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus presided over the meeting of the Council of Advisers at the Chief Adviser’s Office in Tejgaon. Govt declares Aug 5 as 'July Uprising Day' and Aug 8 as 'New Bangladesh Day' The government earlier announced August 5 as 'July Uprising Day' and August 8 as 'New Bangladesh Day.' August 8 marks the day when the interim government was formed following the overthrow of the previous government amid a mass uprising.

As the clock ticks towards budget time, all eyes are on the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, which is poised to unveil the national budget for the fiscal year 2025–26 today (Monday). Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, the Adviser for Finance in the interim government, will unveil the proposed national budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year at 3 pm today (Monday). The pre-recorded budget speech will be broadcast from 3:00pm via Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar. In a move to ensure wider dissemination, private television channels and radio stations have been requested to relay the speech simultaneously by taking the feed from BTV. While the nation struggles with persistent inflation and mounting pressure on household incomes, insiders suggest that the upcoming budget will offer little in the way of sweeping reforms. Core tax policies are expected to remain largely intact, signalling a cautious approach by the caretaker administration. Live presentation of budget for FY26 advanced by an hour to 3pm: Finance Ministry Despite mounting calls from economists and businesses alike for bold interventions to curb inflation and stimulate growth, sources close to the budget process indicate that the interim government will favour continuity over change. The focus, it seems, will be on maintaining macroeconomic stability rather than introducing ambitious fiscal measures. This marks the first national budget to be placed under Professor Yunus' stewardship, and expectations are high, especially given his global reputation as a pioneer in poverty alleviation and social business. Yet, with limited political mandate and time, the government is expected to prioritise administrative efficiency over structural reform. The tax-free income threshold for individual taxpayers is likely to remain at Tk 350,000 per year. There will be no increase in this limit, despite calls from economists and policy experts who argue that rising inflation necessitates a higher threshold to relieve financial pressure on low- and middle-income earners. Business taxes are likely to see upward adjustments. Non-listed companies in the stock market may face a 2.5% increase in the corporate tax rate, taking it to 27.5%. Companies with an annual turnover above Tk 30 million currently pay a minimum tax of 0.6% of total sales, regardless of profit or loss. This rate may be raised to 1%, as per the sources confirmed. Merchant banks might benefit from a reduced corporate tax rate—down from 37.5% to 27.5%. For listed companies, the existing 20% tax rate will remain unchanged. Some targeted tax concessions may be introduced. These include: Minimum tax relief: To encourage new taxpayers, the minimum tax—currently between Tk 3,000 and Tk 5,000 depending on location—may be reduced to as low as Tk 1,000. Land transactions: Taxes on land purchases may be lowered, with rates potentially reduced to 6%, 4%, and 3%, down from 8%, 6%, and 4% respectively based on location. Income tax return requirements: The number of services requiring proof of return submission may be reduced from 45, with some sectors like savings certificates no longer requiring returns, though credit card applications will still need them. Family donations: Tax exemptions for monetary gifts may now extend to include siblings, along with spouses, parents, and children. Private sector employees may receive higher tax-exempt allowances. Currently, up to Tk 450,000 can be exempted due to various benefits; this may be increased to Tk 500,000. Employers might be allowed to declare up to Tk 20 lakh in perks and financial benefits (perquisites) to employees without facing additional compliance burdens, doubling the current ceiling of Tk 10 lakh. Incomes from the National Pension Authority and its universal pension schemes are expected to be tax-exempt. The government may maintain the current policy allowing black money to be legalized through real estate investments, albeit at higher tax rates based on location. Buyers could be required to declare the source of funds. There may also be an announcement regarding taxing and penalizing laundered money and assets, particularly those involving individuals who renounced their Bangladeshi citizenship but continue to earn income from the country. Excise duty thresholds are expected to be revised. The current exemption for bank accounts holding less than Tk 100,000 may be increased to Tk 300,000. New layers for duty imposition are under consideration. Bangladesh to unveil Tk 790,000cr national budget on June 2 amid economic challenges Consumers may see higher prices on items like refrigerators, air conditioners, and mobile phones due to increases in VAT. Conversely, prices may drop for buses, microbuses, sugar, imported butter, soft drinks, specialty paper, and cricket bats due to adjustments in import duties. However, products such as steel rods, face washes, lipsticks, and chocolates may become more expensive as a result of duty hikes.

Uruguay's Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin on Saturday called on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and highlighted the importance of expanding trade and investment ties between Uruguay and Bangladesh. He called for stronger economic collaboration, particularly between Dhaka and Mercosur member countries, to enhance mutual prosperity. The meeting was held at a hotel in Rome, shortly after attending the funeral mass of Pope Francis. During their meeting, both leaders engaged in discussions on issues of mutual interest, focusing on the current global trade situation and the need to bridge cooperation between Latin America and Asia. Professor Yunus and Minister Lubetkin also explored strategies to invest in youth and promote social business enterprises, Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. Bangladesh, Uruguay eye cooperation in unexplored areas They reaffirmed their shared vision of achieving a "Three Zero" world — zero unemployment, zero wealth concentration, and zero net carbon emissions. Chief Adviser Prof Yunus emphasised the importance of maintaining regular high-level dialogues and extended an invitation to Foreign Minister Lubetkin to visit Bangladesh at an early opportunity. The meeting was also attended by Lamiya Morshed, SDG Coordinator of the Bangladesh government; Tareq Ariful Islam, Bangladesh Ambassador to the Vatican; and Rokebul Haque, Bangladesh Ambassador to Italy.