BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Sunday slammed the interim government for its failure to take adequate measures to reduce the prices of essential commodities and curb extortion. “It’s fact that the government is unable to lower the prices of daily necessities, particularly food items. People will be disappointed if they do not experience relief compared to previous periods,” he said while distributing warm clothes in Mohammadpur area of the capital. Timor-Leste President seeks to boost trade ties with Bangladesh The Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal’s Dhaka North City unit organised the programme in front of the Suchona Community Centre. Rizvi said their party has consistently urged the government to intervene in the market and take action against syndicates and middlemen manipulating prices to ease the burden on people. He alleged that the government has failed to stop the extortion of goods-carrying trucks by criminals and the members of law enforcement. “The government may have good intentions, but its initiatives and administrative efforts to reduce commodity prices and curb extortion are inadequate. Proper administrative measures could have stopped extortion on the roads,” the BNP leader said. Rizvi said the government must play a responsible role in combating extortion and ensuring law and order. Khaleda to join political event after 6 years “Political parties cannot stop extortion but can control their own party members, which is what the BNP is doing. But the government must take responsibility to put an end to extortion. It must ensure that every individual can move freely without fear and any threat,” he observed.  The BNP leader said as the interim government was formed through a revolution, it must fulfill the expectations of the people. “If these expectations are not fulfilled, political parties will raise the concerns of the public.” Rizvi said BNP leaders occasionally criticise the government for its shortcomings and failure to meet public expectations. “But that does not mean that we’re against them.”

Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said the government expects commitments of around $6 billion from development partners, including the World Bank and IMF, by next June. “Following our discussions with the development partners in Washington, we’re expecting around $6 billion from the development partners by next June,” he stated. Dr. Salehuddin made this comment after an IMF Mission, led by IMF Country Representative Jayendu De, met him at his office at the Bangladesh Secretariat. The third review mission of the IMF arrived in the capital today to assess progress in meeting the conditions for releasing the fourth tranche of the $4.7 billion loan agreement. In Washington, the Finance Adviser said discussions were held with the World Bank, IMF, the OPEC Fund, and the government expects some commitments by next June.  “We’re also expecting funding from ADB and OPEC Fund in the near future. The commitments will come, but the aid flow will not arrive all in one year,” he added. The Adviser noted that the IMF Mission is likely to return in March next year for further discussions on their next course of action. Regarding the ongoing $4.7 billion loan package, he said $1.11 billion is expected to be released this time. The IMF Mission’s visit will focus primarily on the revenue sector, fiscal deficit, growth, and inflation, according to Dr. Salehuddin.  “They will also evaluate the strategies we’ve undertaken so far and those planned for the coming days. The IMF Mission will hold discussions with the Bangladesh Bank on banking reforms, default loans, depositor stress, and other issues,” he said. Dr. Salehuddin emphasized that economic stability has improved, although not entirely.  “Now is the time to attract investments and encourage foreign donors to contribute,” he said. He noted that the foreign exchange rate is relatively stable. Although some banks required liquidity support, Islami Bank, the largest private sector bank, is recovering, and other banks are expected to gradually stabilize. Dr. Salehuddin pointed out that inward remittance and export growth remain strong, while imports are lower, particularly in capital machinery, due to restrictions. “We are considering possible actions to address this situation,” he added. The IMF Mission will stay in Bangladesh for several days, according to the Adviser.  “We assured them that all measures we take will benefit the country in the long term,” he said, adding that the government avoids taking decisions that could create challenges for future administrations. Bangladesh Bank to maintain database tracking ownership of bank shares  “All measures are thoroughly scrutinized and well-considered. The IMF Mission is also convinced,” he stated. Dr. Salehuddin, a former central bank governor, expressed optimism that the IMF would set realistic targets beneficial for the country’s economic development. When asked, he said additional funding would be considered after discussions on the current loan package.  “We are discussing the ongoing loan package now and will consider seeking extra funds later,” he said. The Adviser added that the government’s reform initiatives, such as banking and revenue sector reforms, require foreign funding, as well as measures to address the trade deficit and current account balance.  “We have already approached the World Bank in this regard,” he said. The IMF review mission will leave on December 17. Bangladesh has received three installments under the IMF loan agreement so far, with the fourth installment expected to be released in December. EU, Bangladesh discuss ILO Conventions, money recovery On June 24 this year, the IMF approved the release of $1.11 billion as the third tranche of Bangladesh’s $4.7 billion loan.

BNP senior leader Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan on Sunday thanked the interim government for forming a new Election Commission ((EC), describing it as a crucial step towards ensuring a credible election.  "We thank the interim government for taking a commendable initiative. They have established an Election Commission, which, I believe, is their most significant reform," he said. Speaking to reporters at the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, Dr Moyeen said reform is an ongoing process that never truly ends. "The reforms we are undertaking today will need to be modified tomorrow.” He said the student-led mass movement has granted this government the mandate to transform the state from a dictatorship i to a democratic one. "This is their primary responsibility and mandate. To fulfill this mandate, a fair election must be held, after carrying out the necessary reforms." Dr Moyeen, a member of the BNP Standing Committee, said their party is providing full support to the interim government and will continue to do so in the future. “We urge the government not to unnecessarily delay the holding of a credible election and to implement only the necessary reforms,” he said. The BNP leader said the people of the country would regain their voting and other rights in the upcoming national election. BNP’s Farroque warns against election delay amid rising chaos “The true representatives of people will be elected, and an elected parliament will be established. This will pave the way for the formation of a government that truly represents the people,” he observed. Earlier, Dr Moyeen, along with BNP Chairperson's adviser and former UK chapter BNP president Mahidur Rahman, paid tribute to Ziaur Rahman by laying a wreath at his grave.  They also offered fateha and a munajat for the salvation of Zia’s departed soul.    

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said that the tenure of the interim government will be less than four years, and their intention is to hold the election as quickly as possible. "I didn't say that I will be (in power) for four years. This is the maximum term. But that's not our intention. Our intention is to get it (hold polls) done as quickly as possible," he said while responding to a question during an interview with Qatar-based media Al Jazeera. Prof Yunus said the exact timeframe for the interim government's tenure has not been determined yet. He said the regular government is for five years and the new Constitution may say four years, probably. "It should be under four years, that's for sure. It may be less," Prof Yunus said. 27 envoys of European countries to meet Prof Yunus soon in Dhaka The chief adviser said it is all about what people and political parties want. "If political parties say forget about it (reform), give the election, we will do it," Prof Yunus said. Asked if he plans to stand for election, Yunus said, "I am not a politician. I enjoy my role and what I have been doing. In my last stage of my life, I am not going to change that." In the interview, Dr Yunus acknowledged the challenges ahead. “Bangladesh is deep in corruption because of the system that we had for the past 15 years – mismanagement, misgovernance, the destruction of our institutions,” he said, adding that rebuilding the system “point by point, sector by sector” will be a “big task”. Highlighting the important reforms before the next national elections, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Sunday pledged that they will hold the desired elections on completion of some necessary reforms. Reforms aimed at ensuring ‘free, fair’ elections: Dr Yunus tells UK Minister “I am not sure how much opportunity we will get to implement the reform proposals. But I am giving you a word, if you give us a scope, we will hold your desired elections after completing some necessary reforms. Till then, I request you to be patient,” he said in a televised address to the nation in the evening, marking the completion of 100 days of the interim government. The Election Commission will be formed in a few days, the chief adviser said, adding that all the responsibility of organising the elections will fall on the Election Commission once it is formed. Mentioning that the question of when the elections will be held is on everyone's mind, Prof Yunus said they want to create an electoral system that will be followed for ages in the country and it will help save the country from any political crisis. “For this, I am seeking the necessary time from you. Once the decision on electoral reforms is made, you will also get the election roadmap very soon,” said the Nobel Laureate who took oath as the chief adviser on August 8.

Listing the key achievements of the interim government after completion of 100 days in power, Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said the government will hold consultations with the political parties on those reports to be submitted by the commissions. Ten reform commissions have been constituted and the most significant ones will submit their reports by December 31, he said. "Once a consensus is reached on the kind of the reforms the country needs, the interim government will announce the date for election," Alam said sharing his opinion on achievements made so far. Separately the ball for the election has been rolled out, he said, adding that a search committee is constituted to find the new and acceptable Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and election commissioners. Once the election commission is formed, it will start work for preparing voter list, Alam said. The Press Secretary shared the key achievements of Prof Muhammad Yunus-led interim government on his verified Facebook page. Interim government's legitimacy derives from mass uprising: Adviser Asif Mahmud The key achievements, according to his opinion, are smooth transition, accountability and justice for the July-August massacre, major economic recovery, reform roadmap, overwhelming global support, zero corruption, efficient and peaceful management of unrests, and crises, a new direction in foreign policy and a cultural reawakening. The Press Secretary said Prof Yunus has repeatedly made calls for the revival of Saarc. He also launched aggressive move for a membership in Asean. Prof Yunus said Bangladesh wants good relations with India, but it must be based on fairness and equity. Third country resettlement of the Rohingyas has been fast-tracked to ease burden on the camps. Prof Yunus has called a new UN-led conference on the Rohingya crisis for a new direction on the issue. The Press Secretary said the biggest challenge of the interim government was to manage expectations. "Scores of groups have hit the streets with demands and sudden burst of angers. The interim government has so far managed the protests with consultations," he said, adding that rarely any force was used to suppress the protests. Alam said garment sector has been hit by localised unrests. "A few pockets of troubles are still there. But they haven't impacted our export performances." The Press Secretary said the last 100 days saw unprecedented debates in society.    

With international support, Prof Muhammad Yunus-led interim government should look to score some "quick wins" to keep the public on side, said the International Crisis Group in its report released on Friday. Holding elections without reforms to put checks and balances on a future government could let another autocratic regime emerge, while a military takeover would be an even bigger setback, it said. An early election would likely bring the BNP to office with few restraints on its power; given its record, many suspect it would prove little better than the AL, the Crisis Group observed. If political and economic conditions were to deteriorate significantly, the army might intervene, beginning a period of military rule, the report claimed. "Quick wins" could include steps to address petty corruption in public services, improve electricity supply and reduce high prices. International actors should work with the interim government to support its ambitious goals and help move Bangladeshi politics into a new era, said the report titled "A New Era in Bangladesh? The First Hundred Days of Reform." Crisis Group's Senior Consultant on Myanmar and Bangladesh Thomas Kean said to maintain the widespread public support it enjoys, the interim government also needs to improve its handling of day-to-day governance. "If Yunus and his team falter, the country could revert back to having elected governments with few checks on power, or even enter a period of military rule," he said, commenting on the report. But if they can succeed in steering reforms, Bangladeshis could stand to benefit for decades to come, Kean said. He mentioned that one hundred days after Prof Yunus was sworn in to lead Bangladesh’s new interim government, the country stands at a crucial juncture. The interim government has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve governance and put checks in place that would prevent another autocratic regime from emerging, Kean said. "But the scale of the task is monumental," he said, adding that in particular, the interim government will need to maintain a degree of political consensus with key political players, including student leaders, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Islamist forces, the military, and civil society. The interim government has a strong public backing for reform and the support of key players, including student leaders and the army, the International Crisis Group observed. The interim government has identified its priorities, outlined a process and laid out an initial timeline. Read: Finance Adviser prioritises short-term reforms over long-term ones Sheikh Hasina’s flight from Bangladesh on 5 August has created a once-in-a generation opportunity for political renewal that can move the country beyond the bitter divisions and violence that has characterised much of the past five decades, according to the report. The interim government will need to build political consensus while maintaining economic stability and delivering steady results to ensure that the Bangladeshi public remains firmly behind it, said the Crisis Group. The alternatives would be unappealing for both Bangladesh and its partners, it observed. What’s new?  Three months after an uprising toppled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the reform agenda of Bangladesh’s interim government is becoming clearer – along with the pitfalls that lie in its path. Led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, the administration is expected to remain in office for another year and maybe longer. Why does it matter?  After fifteen years of Hasina’s rule, Bangladesh has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve governance and put checks in place that would stop another autocratic regime from emerging. "If the interim government falters, however, the country could revert to the status quo ante or even enter a period of military rule." What should be done?  The interim government should aim to produce quick results to maintain public support for more ambitious reforms. It should avoid staying in power too long and build consensus on new measures among political parties, said the report. External actors should offer aid; India should work to repair its image with the Bangladeshi people, it mentioned. Read more: Major reforms underway to improve train ticketing system, combat scalping: Adviser Fouzul   After fifteen years in office, Sheikh Hasina’s administration had grown "deeply unpopular." To hold on to power, the report said, her government "systematically undermined" the independence of Bangladesh’s institutions, particularly the police, judiciary and bureaucracy. Even if it is unclear how successful the Yunus team can be in reaching the goal, the alternatives look unappealing, said the report . Foreign governments and multilateral institutions should provide the interim government with technical and financial assistance, including on security, judicial, electoral and economic reform. Foreign governments should also help recover the proceeds of corruption and state-sanctioned theft that are sitting in banks and property markets outside Bangladesh. India, which "staunchly supported" Hasina throughout her rule, should take steps to repair the resulting damage to its image, said the report. Support at home and abroad will be crucial to ensure that Bangladesh does not lose this chance at the political and economic change that many of its people long for, said the report .

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday urged the interim government to take effective steps to meet the expectations of people in order to foil any plots by evil forces.                          “I want to warn the freedom-loving people of one thing, and I myself also want to remain alert that the conspiracy of the anti-democratic evil forces has not stopped yet against the interim government, he said virtually from London to a mammoth gathering at Nayapaltan. The BNP leader said the associates of the deposed Awami League regime are still active in the country’s administration, in different positions, as well as abroad, to undermine the Dr Muhammad Yunus-led government. He renewed his party’s support for the interim government, saying this administration can never be allowed to fail. “But, if the interim government wants to keep itself alert, it must take effective steps to fulfil the expectations of people. It is now the demand of people,” Tarique said. He congratulated the people of the country and the students for ending fascism through a successful popular uprising. "The 7th November, 1975 was the day to distinguish between friends and foes of Bangladesh, while 5th August 2024 was the day to identify the enemies of Bangladesh," Tarique said. He also said as long as the pro-Bangladesh forces remain united, no one will be able to undermine the country's independence. The BNP leader said their rally is not aimed at raising a storm of protests against anyone, but rather a procession to safeguard the country’s interests and the voting and other rights of people. “This procession of millions on the streets is a march of resolve to build a just, democratic and humane Bangladesh as envisioned by countless students, citizens, and martyrs as well as those who were injured in the anti-fascist movement,” he observed. Tarique emphasised that it is crucial for every citizen to elect their representatives through their votes to ensure that fascism never returns to Bangladesh.  “As long as those aspiring to become representatives, from local governments to the central government, won’t remain dependent on the people’s vote, the people will not be able to fully enjoy the benefits of democracy,” he said. Even in an environment free from autocracy or fascism, Tarique said it will be impossible to free low-income people from the curse of market syndicates unless their right to elect their representatives through direct voting is guaranteed. “Let us ensure that this massive procession does not go in vain. With this expectation, I declare the auspicious inauguration of this rally,” the BNP leader said. Addressing the programme, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Alamgir said that although Sheikh Hasina fled the country during the uprising, her cohorts are still lurking everywhere, ready to harm Bangladesh in various ways. He said the nefarious efforts to destroy Bangladesh must be resisted by strengthening national unity. “No dictator will be allowed to strip the people of their rights again. Let us unite and ensure that only democracy will prevail in Bangladesh,” he declared. Later, the party brought out a massive colourful rally in the capital around 3:32pm, marking ‘National Revolution and Solidarity Day’. It proceeded towards Manik Mia Avenue, passing through Kakrail intersection, Kakrail Mosque, Matsya Bhaban, the Engineering Institute, Shahbagh, Hotel Intercontinental, Bangla Motor, Karwan Bazar, and Farmgate. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir concluded the rally with a brief address at Manik Mia Avenue at around 6:30pm. Earlier, tens of thousands of leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies, many of them wearing colourful caps, assembled at Nayapaltan since noon, prepared to participate in a large-scale showdown. Streets and alleys from Kakrail Mosque to Fakirerpool and adjoining areas were packed with BNP supporters, causing traffic disruption in the area. Carrying banners, festoons, placards, and portraits of the party’s top leaders, BNP activists chanted slogans demanding elections and the withdrawal of cases against senior party leaders, including Tarique Rahman. BNP observed ‘National Revolution and Solidarity Day’ on Thursday, commemorating the ‘civil-military uprising’ of 7 November 1975. On November 7, 1975, amid political unrest, soldiers and civilians jointly freed then Chief of Army Staff Ziaur Rahman from confinement in Dhaka Cantonment, paving the way for his ascent to power.

Agriculture Adviser Lt Gen Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (Retd) has said that the government is actively working to restore the former glory of jute. He made these remarks during a press briefing after a discussion with researchers and scientists at the Bangladesh Jute Research Institute in Dhaka on Monday. The event was also attended by Dr. Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian, Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, and Dr. Nargis Akhtar, Director General of the Bangladesh Jute Research Institute. Chowdhury highlighted the environmental benefits of jute products, noting that jute has significant potential for broader applications, including its use in vegetables and tea. He pointed out that the country once earned substantial foreign exchange from jute exports, a practice that has diminished as farmers have shifted to more profitable crops. He emphasized the need to explore ways to boost jute production in collaboration with scientists, who have identified 56 varieties of jute so far.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday said the interim government should operate within the constitutional framework avoiding any imprudent steps. “The only way to overcome every crisis is to hold a credible national election after completing all the necessary reforms related to the electoral process,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking to reporters after placing a wreath at the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, accompanied by leaders and members of Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, marking its 46th founding anniversary. Asked about BNP’s position on the removal of President Mohammed Shahabuddin following the meeting with students, he said, “We can’t provide BNP's position like this... we have a party forum, and we will clarify our stance after discussing it at that forum meeting.” Fakhrul emphasised that what is essential is a national unity to consolidate the revolution in Bangladesh and harvest its results. “We believe that all actions should be conducted within a constitutional framework without resorting to any arbitrary measures.” He said their party has consistently urged the government to arrange an impartial election swiftly by implementing necessary electoral reforms. Sought comments if BNP believes the crisis will worsen if the election is delayed, he responded that the government must take immediate steps to organise the national election to address the crisis. “A constitutional political force should take charge of the country and govern through a neutral election. This alone can resolve all crises.” Fakhrul appreciated the role of Jubo Dal in the student-led mass uprising aimed at overthrowing the fascist regime of Sheikh Hasina. By placing a wreath at Zia’s grave, he said they pledged that they would protect at any cost Bangladesh’s independence. “BNP and its associate bodies never compromised on the question of Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty, and they won’t do it in the future,” Fakhrul said. He said the nation was liberated for the second time by ousting the fascist Awami League on August 5 after a long struggle and Jubo Dal played a significant role there. Fakhrul said Jubo Dal has now become much stronger under the leadership of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. “Jubo Dal will surely play an active role in consolidating the country’s independence and sovereignty, making the student-led mass uprising meaningful.” He urged the Jubo Dal to remain alert to resist and defeat the enemies of Bangladesh. Jubo Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna and General Secretary Nurul Islam Nayon, along with BNP senior leaders, went to Zia’s grave at 11:30am and paid homage to Zia. They also offered fateha there and prayed for the eternal peace of the soul of Ziaur Rahman. BNP Standing Committee member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Vice Chairman Barkat Ullah Bulu, Chairperson’s advisory council member Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal, BNP publicity secretary Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, and former Jubo Dal President Saiful Alam Nirab were, among others, present. Later in the afternoon, BNP Standing Committee member Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain inaugurated a day-long medical camp and voluntary blood donation programme at the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, marking the Jubo Dal’s founding anniversary.  

The interim government has affirmed that there has been no decision yet regarding the President’s matter, saying that the media will be informed in due time if any decision is taken. "Political parties are our stakeholders. This (today's meeting with BNP) is part of an ongoing dialogue with political parties. You will know in due course of time if there is any decision," said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam to reporters outside the State guesthouse Jamuna on Wednesday afternoon. Security tightened around Bangabhaban amid growing tensions Alam made the remarks in response to repeated questions from reporters over the possibility of resignation or removal of the President. Regarding concerns over the Chief Adviser’s health, the Press Secretary assured that the Chief Adviser is in good health and continues to hold meetings as usual. On Tuesday evening, Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir said that the government supports the Law Adviser’s stance regarding President Mohammed Shahabuddin. “The government agrees with what Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul said earlier regarding the President… there has been no decision as of now regarding the removal of the President,” Jahangir told reporters at the Foreign Service Academy in response to a query. Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul had on Monday accused President Mohammed Shahabuddin of lying about not receiving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation letter, suggesting that the President’s statement violated his oath of office. "The President’s claim that he did not receive Sheikh Hasina’s resignation letter is a lie and a violation of his oath," Dr Asif stated.