United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has instructed the chiefs of the three armed services to take all necessary measures to ensure flawless security ahead of the 13th National Parliament election, scheduled for the first half of February. He gave the directives during a meeting with Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman, Navy Chief Admiral Mohammad Nazmul Hasan, and Air Chief Marshal Hassan Mahmud Khan at the State Guest House Jamuna on Saturday evening. CA’s office asks officials to avoid foreign travels until election National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman was also present. During the meeting, Professor Yunus commended the armed forces for their contributions in maintaining national security and law and order over the past 15 months. He reiterated that the interim government is determined to hold the elections in February in a free, fair, impartial, peaceful and festive manner. Forces from inside-outside country may work to thwart election: Prof Yunus    The chiefs of the three services briefed the Chief Adviser on the military’s preparations for the elections. A total of 90,000 army personnel, 2,500 navy personnel, and a number of air force personnel will be deployed to maintain law and order. One company of soldiers will be stationed in each upazila. The military chiefs also invited the Chief Adviser to attend the Armed Forces Day celebrations on 21 November. Cooperatives can help build an equal and self-reliant Bangladesh: Prof Yunus  

Extending advance Durga Puja greetings, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday said no government has the right to deny citizens their fundamental constitutional rights. He said every citizen of the country is entitled to equal dignity and rights and no one should face discrimination on the basis of religion, ideology or economic status. “We - the entire nation is a broader family. Within a family, there may be differences of opinion but the family bond is an unbreakable entity…the government is committed to ensuring equal rights and dignity for all citizens,” the Chief Adviser said, emphasising the importance of unity to defeat evil forces. Prof Yunus visited Dhakeshwari National Temple to witness the preparations for the upcoming Durga Puja and exchanged greetings with members of the Hindu community. The Chief Adviser, who is scheduled to reach New York on September 22 to attend the UN General Assembly, said the visit gave him peace of mind before his departure from Dhaka as he will not be in Dhaka during the Puja celebration. "Now I can head towards UNGA with peace in mind. We are citizens of this country, and there will be no discrimination against anyone,” he said. Prof Yunus also urged all citizens to remain aware of their rights. “Keep reminding you that you are a citizen of this country, and you must be given the rights and dignity guaranteed by the Constitution.” He expressed optimism that Bangladesh would continue to march toward progress and prosperity through unity. Prof Yunus noted that he initially feared missing the joy of Durga Puja celebrations as he would be abroad during the festival. “I didn’t want to be deprived of this joy, so I came here today,” he said. On religious freedom, the Chief Adviser said they all want to freely practise their religious faith as citizens. “We must guarantee these rights." Prof Yunus urges vigilance against conspiracies over Durga Puja  

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will address the nation at 8:20 pm today (Tuesday) on the occasion of July Uprising Day. The speech will be broadcast simultaneously on Bangladesh Television, BTV News and Bangladesh Betar, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. July Declaration to be unveiled at Manik Mia Avenue today

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday said they are working to build a broad national consensus around a renewed political system—one that delivers ‘inclusive, participatory and credible’ elections. "The goal is clear: to establish a society where all Bangladeshis can live in peace, with pride, with freedom, and with dignity," he said while speaking at the 'commemoration and dialogue event’, marking the anniversary of the July 2024 events. Prof Yunus said their work is far from finished. "Alongside our reform agenda, we are pursuing legal accountability for those responsible for gross violations." But, Prof Yunus said, justice is not only about punishment. "Justice is also about ensuring that state power can never again be used to suppress, silence, or destroy its own people," he said. Political representatives, representatives of victims’ families, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman also spoke at the event. Prof Yunus said as they reflect on this past year, they remember those who gave their lives in pursuit of that vision. "Their sacrifices paved the way for a new chapter in our history. They have created a new Bangladesh, one that is rooted in hope, human rights and democratic renewal," he said. Saudi Arabia invites Prof Yunus to attend ‘Future Investment Initiative’ The United Nations Human Rights Mission in Dhaka organised the event that brought together senior political leaders, civil society members, youth representatives and international partners. At the request of the Chief Adviser, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) undertook an independent fact-finding mission into the events of July-August 2024. The report of the mission, released on February 12, 2025, presented comprehensive findings and outlined key recommendations aimed at ensuring non-repetition of similar incidents. "On behalf of the people of Bangladesh, I thank the United Nations for standing with us in our darkest hour, and I look forward to the continued partnership as we move forward," Prof Yunus said. All gathered at the event to mark the first anniversary of the July Uprising—a moment of profound significance in Bangladesh history.   "It was a moment when thousands of Bangladeshi men and women—most of them young—stood up against tyranny and reclaimed the dignity and future of our country. Their courage spoke not only for our people, but for humanity," Prof Yunus said. He recognised the steadfast support of the international community, particularly the United Nations, which has always stood beside Bangladesh—from the War of Independence in 1971, to the Rohingya crisis and again during the dark days of July and August last year. In the aftermath of the Second World War, the United Nations set out to define and defend the inalienable rights of all human beings—irrespective of race, religion, sex, or status. "The Universal Declaration of Human Rights emerged as a moral compass for our world, and its principles have long been embedded in our own constitution, Bangladesh’s Constitution," said Prof Yunus. Over the past 16 years, Prof Yunus said, these rights were repeatedly denied to the citizens. "Our institutions were captured. Freedoms were curtailed. Violence became the prime tool of governance. Last July, our society stood united in rejecting this reality," said the Chief Adviser, adding that the people of Bangladesh reclaimed their rights with clarity, resolve and immense bravery. Immediately after the establishment of the Interim Government in August last year, Prof Yunus formally requested the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to conduct an independent fact-finding mission to investigate allegations of human rights abuses between 1 July and 15 August. "We believed that an impartial and credible accounting of the truth was essential—not for justice alone, but also for healing," Prof Yunus said. The UN High Commissioner’s report, released in February 2025, revealed the staggering scale of the atrocities: an estimated 1,400 lives lost in just a few weeks. The report described the violence as systematic, directed and coordinated from the highest levels of the previous regime. "It raised urgent concerns about potential crimes against humanity," said Prof Yunus. These findings have been further corroborated by international investigative journalism, including reports by the BBC and Al Jazeera. "We are grateful to the office of the High Commissioner for not only documenting these abuses, but for offering a comprehensive set of recommendations to help ensure that such violations never, never happen again," said the Chief Adviser. He said they have taken these recommendations to heart—not out of obligation to others, but out of responsibility to ourselves. Since assuming office, our government has begun implementing wide-ranging reforms. CA Prof Yunus reviews law & order, election preparations "We have amended the Code of Criminal Procedure and acceded to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Earlier this month, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the OHCHR to establish a facilitating mission in Dhaka," he said. This Mission will provide technical support for reform initiatives, as well as capacity-building for government institutions, local authorities and civil society actors working to safeguard most precious thing, human rights. From the earliest days of the interim government, the United Nations has been a vital partner in our transition. "I thank Secretary-General António Guterres for his unwavering support and for his solidarity and his visit to Bangladesh in March of this year," Prof Yunus said. Prof Yunus urges KSA to set up production sector in Bangladesh He also extended his deep appreciation to High Commissioner Volker Türk, the members of the OHCHR Fact-Finding Team, Gwyn Lewis, the UN Resident Coordinator, and of course his friend Huma Khan, Senior Human Rights Adviser, for their extraordinary and historical contributions.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday reaffirmed his government's unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, declaring that Bangladesh will not allow any terrorist group to operate within its borders. “Combating terrorism is our top priority. We have zero tolerance for terrorism in Bangladesh. We will exert every effort to eliminate terrorists from our soil,” the Chief Adviser said. Prof Yunus made the remarks during a meeting with US Chargé d’ Affaires Tracey Ann Jacobson at the state guest house Jamuna in the afternoon. During the 40-minute meeting, they discussed matters of mutual interest, including the ongoing tariff negotiations between Bangladesh and the United States. Chargé d’Affaires Jacobson reiterated her government’s support for Bangladesh’s reform efforts and its democratic transition, which is expected to culminate in national elections early next year. The Chief Adviser also shared updates on the work of the National Consensus-Building Commission, which is striving to bring political parties together around key reforms. “I believe the commission is doing an excellent job. The members, led by Professor Ali Riaz, are working diligently,” he added.

The Council of Advisers in its meeting on Thursday decided to extend full government support to the families of those lost their lives and for the treatment of those suffered injured in the recent jet crash at Uttara.  The meeting, chaired by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, also decided to confer state honour on two teachers of Milestone School and College who sacrificed their lives to save children. New Pay Commission formed for govt employees Regarding government support to the families of the victims, the Ministry of Education has been tasked with consulting Milestone School and College authorities to determine the appropriate steps moving forward. The meeting of the Council of Advisers was held at the Chief Adviser’s Office (CAO). Chief Adviser’s Press Wing shared the outcome of the meeting.  At the beginning of the meeting, the Council of Advisers adopted a condolence motion in memory of those who lost their lives in the crash.  A one-minute silence was observed, followed by prayers seeking eternal peace for the departed souls. The meeting decided that special prayers will be offered at all religious institutions across the country on Friday seeking forgiveness for the deceased and a speedy recovery for the injured.  The Ministry of Religious Affairs will coordinate the initiative.

As he sees the signs of various conspiracies, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday urged political parties to make their unity against fascism more visible and stronger in a bid to foil the conspiracies of the defeated forces. “Despite differences and competition, the unity of political parties against fascism needs to be made more visible. Otherwise, the fascist forces may see this as an opportunity,” he said. The Chief Adviser made the remarks during a meeting with 13 political parties at the state guest house Jamuna. He said the interim government made arrangements for bringing all political parties together to remember the past in one year of the July Uprising. “By doing so, the unity among us against fascism would have become more visible. But even before a full year has passed, signs of various conspiracies by the defeated forces have already begun appearing,” the Chief Adviser told the political leaders. All the political parties participating in the meeting expressed support for maintaining political and mass unity against fascism. They urged the Chief Adviser to be stricter and take a stronger stance in controlling law and order, extended full support for the reform process, the trial of fascists and the upcoming election process. CA Dr Yunus holding meeting with 13 political parties With the election in mind, they also requested the Chief Adviser to hold more all-party meetings regularly with political parties to stand against fascism. A day after meeting leaders of four major political parties, Chief Adviser Professor Yunus met leaders from 13 other political parties on Wednesday afternoon. Syed Hasibuddin Hossain from the Rashtra Sangskar Andolon, Zonayed Saki from Ganosamhati Andolon, Mujibur Rahman Manju from AB Party, Shahidullah Kaisar from Nagorik Oikya, Nurul Haque Nur from Gono Odhikar Parishad, Redwan Ahmed from LDP, Dr Ahmad Abdul Kader from Khelafat Majlis, Saiful Haque from the Biplobi Workers Party, Tania Rabb from JSD, Shahadat Hossain Selim from the 12-Party Alliance, Bazlur Rashid Firoz from Bangladesher Samajtantrik Dal (BASAD), Ruhin Hossain Prince from CPB and Dr Mizanur Rahman from Gono Forum attended the meeting. Earlier, on Tuesday night, the Chief Adviser had a meeting with BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Abdullah Mohammad Taher and Assistant Secretary General Hamidur Rahman Azad, National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam and Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, and Islami Andolan Bangladesh Presidium Member Prof Ashraf Ali Akon and Joint Secretary General Gazi Ataur Rahman. Prof Yunus designates a site in Uttara for aircraft crash victims' burial The leaders of the four parties urged the government to play a more proactive role in maintaining law and order, and stressed the need for ensuring a smooth path towards the upcoming national election, expected to be held in early 2026. During the meeting, the political leaders reaffirmed to remain united in their fight against fascism.

International journalists have expressed strong optimism about the upcoming parliamentary elections in Bangladesh, expected to take place in the second week of February 2026 under the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus. Renowned for his commitment to social change and integrity, Professor Yunus is expected to oversee a voting process that prioritises fairness and transparency. As reporters from various countries highlight the significance of this election, many believe that Yunus’ leadership could restore faith in the democratic process, marking a crucial  moment not only for Bangladesh but also for observers around the world. In recent discussions, journalists noted that the involvement of Professor Yunus could usher in much-needed reforms in the electoral system.  Foreign journalists laud Prof Yunus for leading Bangladesh interim govt successfully His global reputation as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and pioneer of economic and social development has earned admiration both at home and abroad. His past efforts to promote social responsibility and democracy lend further credibility to hopes that the elections will be conducted in a free and credible manner. Kisho Kumari, a journalist from Malaysia, said, “If Yunus leads the process, I believe the election will be fair and transparent. His reputation for honesty gives confidence to many observers.” Kenyan journalist Brian Ngugi remarked that Bangladesh has an opportunity to hold a credible election that reflects the will of its people. “Yunus’ leadership can make a big difference,” Brian added. Nik Mohammad Nikmal, Editor-in-Chief of The Kabul Times Daily, said he closely observes and sincerely admires the courage and democratic resolve of the people of Bangladesh as they prepare for free, fair, and transparent elections under the leadership of Prof Yunus. “This election stands as a historic opportunity for the citizens of Bangladesh to raise their voices and decide the future of their nation,” he added. “I believe this process will serve as a remarkable example of democracy, transparency, and unity, offering the people of Bangladesh a chance to express their will and shape their destiny. It will demonstrate that courageous nations can come together, embrace change, and take control of their future through peaceful and fair means.” He also extended heartfelt wishes for peace, success, and a brighter future to the people of Bangladesh. Bangladesh Election Commission seeks to regain authority to cancel entire constituency polls International media outlets have been closely following developments in Bangladesh and have reported growing support for Professor Yunus. Comments from journalists point to the high level of public anticipation for an election that truly reflects the people’s will.  They emphasise the importance of ensuring that all citizens can participate freely, without fear or intimidation. Shahrokh Saei, a journalist from Iran, said, as Bangladesh prepares for its national elections next year, the nation stands at a pivotal moment in its democratic journey.  The interim government, led by the esteemed Nobel laureate and economist Prof Muhammad Yunus, has instilled a renewed sense of hope among the people.  With his unwavering commitment to democratic principles, Prof Yunus has assured the nation that the upcoming polls will be free, fair, and transparent, a testament to Bangladesh’s growing political maturity, he added. Saei noted that Prof Yunus, a globally revered figure, has long been recognised for his visionary leadership and dedication to social justice. His recent role as Chief Adviser of the caretaker government has further solidified his reputation as a unifying force capable of steering Bangladesh through this critical transition. Ensure financial security, protection of journalists to achieve media freedom: Speakers His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, coupled with his strong international credibility, makes him uniquely qualified to oversee an election that meets the highest democratic standards. Under his stewardship, Bangladesh is not only poised to conduct a credible election but also to strengthen its institutions and reinforce public trust in governance, Saei said. Rajaram Gautam, a Nepalese journalist, said that Bangladesh is currently in a political transition under interim leader Muhammad Yunus, following protests against Sheikh Hasina in July 2024. “The main challenge is to restore stability and hold free, fair and transparent elections as soon as possible. Despite government commitments and mounting pressure to schedule elections, ensuring a credible electoral process amid ongoing political uncertainty remains difficult,” he said. “Yunus, a respected international figure without a political background, faces a crucial test to lead Bangladesh through this transition and establish a legitimate government through democratic elections. And I hope Yunus will be able to conduct elections that are free, fair, and transparent to legitimise the country's democratic process,” Gautam added. The international community has already expressed confidence in Professor Yunus’ leadership, recognising his integrity and impartiality. As Bangladesh moves towards this historic election, there is a palpable optimism that Professor Yunus’s interim government will set a new benchmark for electoral integrity in the country. In a world where democratic processes are often marred by controversy, Bangladesh has a golden opportunity to showcase its commitment to democracy under Professor Yunus’ guidance. His leadership promises not only a smooth electoral process but also a brighter, more inclusive future for the nation.   The people of Bangladesh, along with the global community, eagerly await an election that reflects their aspirations—one conducted with transparency, fairness, and the spirit of progress that Professor Yunus embodies. Bangladesh Election: EC forms five committees to accelerate preparations   As the country gears up for this crucial event, the eyes of the world will be on Bangladesh. Journalists are keen to witness how Professor Muhammad Yunus can influence positive change in the political landscape, creating a benchmark for future elections in the region. Regardless of the outcomes, this election is seen as a critical step forward for democracy in Bangladesh and may serve as a model for other nations facing similar challenges.

Emphasising inclusive healthcare, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Friday said they are prioritising digital healthcare so that people in Bangladesh's remote areas can consult doctors online.  Their medical histories will be stored digitally, making future consultations easier, the Chief Adviser said when Vice President of SpaceX Lauren Dreyer met him at the State Guest House Jamuna. "This is particularly important during pregnancy, a time when women often need male assistance to visit a doctor. With digital services, they can consult doctors from home,” he said. Richard Griffiths, Global Engagement Consultant of SpaceX; National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman; Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant for the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb; and Executive Chairman of BIDA and BEZA, Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, were also present at the meeting, according to the Chief Adviser's press wing. She commended the coordinated efforts of government officials in Bangladesh for supporting the effective launching of Starlink in the country. “We operate in 150 countries and territories. We have never seen such efficiency and decisiveness. On behalf of all my colleagues at SpaceX, I extend our appreciation to you. We look forward to working closely with your team,” she said. The Chief Adviser thanked the Vice President for visiting Bangladesh. “It’s a lovely time of year here, the monsoon season. Greenery and water everywhere. Prof Yunus sending mangoes to South Asian leaders as gesture of goodwill At the same time, we face challenges of flooding and waterlogging, which highlight the need for dependable technology to maintain connectivity.”  “There is also a pressing need for improved connectivity in the remote areas of our hill tracts. These regions lack proper schools, teachers, and doctors. We have set a target to introduce online education in 100 schools, which will benefit students in isolated areas,” he said.    

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday called upon Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus to take steps to ensure the best possible treatment for legendary Lalon singer Farida Parveen as her health condition has deteriorated. "Farida Parveen is a unique figure in Lalon music and one of the most beloved singers in Bangladesh. She has had a strong influence in the music world for many years and has maintained her position with dignity,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while talking to reporters after visiting the ailing singer at Universal Medical College and Hospital (Ayesha Memorial Hospital) in Mohakhali area.  The noted 70-year-old singer has been receiving treatment in the ICU of the hospital since July 5. Fakhrul said the singer is now in critical condition, mainly due to kidney problems and other complications. Hasina can’t escape justice for ‘reign of terror’: Fakhrul “The hospital authorities and doctors are taking good care of her, but her condition remains critical. I appeal to the government to form a special board for the treatment of such a talented and respected singer, who is admired worldwide,” he said. The BNP leader also urged the government to make all necessary arrangements so that she can receive the best possible treatment, even if that means sending her abroad. “This is what the nation wants… I appeal to the Chief Adviser to personally take the initiative to ensure she gets the highest possible treatment,” he said. Farida Parveen has long been suffering from diabetes and various other health issues, along with kidney problems. During his visit, the BNP Secretary General spoke to the doctors and enquired about her treatment. He also talked to a member of the singer’s family and handed over financial support on behalf of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia and Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. BNP Media Cell member Shayrul Kabir Khan said Fakhrul spoke by phone with two government advisers—Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and Legal Adviser Asif Nazrul—urging them to take steps for Farida Parveen’s treatment. BNP’s Cultural Affairs Secretary Ashraf Uddin Uzzal, Assistant Cultural Secretary Saeed Sohrab, and Jasas President Helal Khan and General Secretary Zakir Hossain Rokon were also present.