United News of Bangladesh

A delegation of the Commonwealth Observer Group paid a courtesy call on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday. The meeting was held at the state guest house Jamuna. The 23-member delegation was led by the chair of the Commonwealth Observer Group and former president of Ghana, H E Nana Akufo-Addo. Chief Coordinator on Sustainable Development Goals at the Chief Adviser’s Office Lamiya Morshed was present at the meeting. Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also attended.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will address the nation this (Tuesday) evening. He will address the nation at 7 pm marking  the national election and the referendum, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar will broadcast his speech.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said the inspiration of the Liberation War must be passed on from generation to generation so that the country’s younger population understands where Bangladesh came from and how its independence was achieved. “We are not permanent. But the inspiration of the Liberation War is essential for the new generation. They must know where this country came from and how the war was fought. The War of Independence must remain a source of inspiration for generations,” he said. The chief adviser made the remarks while holding a meeting with leaders of the National Freedom Fighters Council, Bangladesh Freedom Fighters Welfare Trust and Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad at the state guest house Jamuna in the evening. Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-e-Azam was present at the meeting. Prof Yunus said identifying genuine freedom fighters and detecting fake ones was a key priority immediately after the interim government assumed office. “The people of Bangladesh hold freedom fighters in the highest respect. In the past, many tried to exploit this respect for personal gain. We must ensure this never happens again,” he said. He noted that political interests had weakened the credibility of the freedom fighter institutions, turning them into tools rather than institutions. “Our effort was to restore them as proper institutions,” he added. Expressing gratitude for meeting the freedom fighters, the chief adviser said preserving history and introducing it to the younger generation is a sacred task. “Very soon, we will no longer be able to find new freedom fighters. But we must preserve their memories. We need to plan now so that the spirit of the Liberation War remains immortal in our nation,” he said. Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk E Azam said previous governments used the rhetoric of the Liberation War to create discrimination and deprived genuine freedom fighters. “Many freedom fighters were deeply hurt. Since assuming responsibility, we are trying collectively to clean up the sector and restore the lost dignity of freedom fighters,” he said. The freedom fighters thanked Prof Yunus for successfully leading the interim government, implementing reforms and arranging a referendum. They said if the July Charter is implemented, there will be no scope for fascism to return and the government will remain accountable to the people. They also said the July Charter would play a leading role in protecting Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty and taking the country forward. The freedom fighters noted that a defeat of the reforms in the referendum would be unfortunate for the country and said they would personally campaign for a ‘Yes’ vote.

Highlighting the significant demand for Bangladeshi workers abroad, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said all forms of fraud, related to skills training certificates, must be stopped to unlock the country’s untapped employment potential overseas. “All these frauds must be stopped. The reputation of the country’s workforce is being undermined due to fraud and forgery related to skills training certificates,” he said, stressing that if employers lose trust, all skill development initiatives would fail. The Chief Adviser made the remarks while presiding over a meeting of the Governing Body of the National Skills Development Authority (NSDA) at his office. Prof Yunus instructed the concerned authorities to take effective measures to prevent the forgery of skill development training certificates and the use of fake credentials in order to safeguard Bangladesh’s reputation in the international labour market. Stressing the importance of building the country’s brand image, he said, “Employers should say that workers who come from Bangladesh will definitely do well.” Established in 2018, this was the second meeting of the NSDA Governing Body. The first meeting was held in 2022. Prof Yunus said the NSDA has provided a strong framework for developing skilled human resources in line with the needs of both national and international labour markets. With the growing demand for Bangladeshi workers abroad, he added, the role of the authority will become even more important. Expressing optimism, the Chief Adviser said the NSDA’s initiative to introduce a unified standard certification system across all training institutions would play a crucial role in preventing such fraud. “Our young generation is highly creative and full of potential. Our responsibility is to open doors of opportunity for them,” he said. Prof Yunus happy over polls preparations, says next ‘week very crucial’ Prof Yunus also emphasised the need for necessary initiatives and coordination to enable private entrepreneurs to operate in a more transparent and effective manner. The meeting reviewed the implementation progress of decisions taken at the previous Governing Body meeting and decided to establish an integrated skills ecosystem. Under this ecosystem, uniform curricula and standards will be ensured for training programmes conducted by different ministries. Once fully implemented, the system is expected to enhance the quality and credibility of certificates in the international market, reduce the wastage of public funds, and facilitate centralised and effective planning and implementation for assessing industrial labour demand and workforce development. The Governing Body approved the long-term goals of the NSDA to address global challenges following Bangladesh’s graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. Key components of these long-term plans include conducting skills gap analyses in emerging sectors, bringing all development projects under NSDA curricula and competency standards, aligning the Bangladesh National Qualifications Framework (BNQF) with international benchmarks, and bringing the large informal-sector workforce under national skills certification through recognition of prior learning. Among other issues, the meeting discussed the provision of Continuous Discharge Certificates (CDC) to students trained at the Institutes of Marine Technology (IMTs) under the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment. Dhaka, Beijing cooperation must continue with new govt: Prof Yunus Shipping and Labour and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hussain, Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Chief Adviser’s Principal Secretary M Siraz Uddin Miah, NSDA Executive Chairman Dr Nazneen Kawshar Chowdhury, secretaries of different ministries, and other senior officials attended the meeting.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Sunday said that no government can guarantee there will be no attempts at violence, particularly when influential actors are actively calling for disruption. "But the conditions today are not the same as before. Security forces are under close scrutiny, political parties and civil society are cooperating, and international observers are on the ground," he said in response to TIB's report on election related killings. Together, Alam said, these conditions give real reason to believe that this election can finally end the cycle of fear and violence that defined previous elections. Transparency International Bangladesh says that 15 political leaders and activists were killed in the 36 days following the announcement of the election schedule. "That number has quickly taken on a life of its own. But it deserves scrutiny, not blind repetition," Alam said. Police records show that only five killings during this period can be directly linked to political profile or activity, he said. One of them was the cold-blooded murder of Osman Hadi, shot dead by gunmen on a motorcycle, Alam said. "Every killing is condemnable. Osman Hadi’s murder was particularly brutal, aimed not only at silencing a young political leader but at provoking fear and instability at a sensitive political moment. That objective failed," the Press Secretary said. Prof Yunus happy over polls preparations, says next ‘week very crucial’ The country did not spiral into retaliatory violence, and the election process has not been derailed, he said. "What is missing from TIB’s presentation is context. Political violence around elections is not new in Bangladesh. In the sham elections of 2024, six people were killed," Alam said. He went on to say, "In the night-time elections of 2018, 22 people lost their lives. In the officially rigged 2014 polls, political violence claimed at least 115 lives." Measured against this history, the suggestion that the current pre-election period reflects an alarming breakdown in security is difficult to sustain, Alam said. He said the difference between TIB’s figures and the official data is not a cover-up. "It is a disagreement over how deaths are classified. TIB appears to count every killing of a person affiliated with a political party as election-related, regardless of whether there is evidence that the killing was politically motivated." Alam said the government, by contrast, counts only deaths with direct and provable links to electoral activity. "Treating these approaches as equivalent distorts public understanding and inflates perceptions of insecurity." "Let’s be clear: public security is not in perfect shape. Years of politicised policing and abuse under the Hasina government destroyed public trust, which is why people from all walks of life demanded an interim, non-partisan government," Alam said. Since taking office, he said, the interim government has removed or suspended officials credibly accused of abuses, reviewed the role of specialised units, initiated criminal proceedings in cases of enforced disappearance and torture, and issued clear rules governing the policing of assemblies and the electoral period.

The interim government on Thursday said that law enforcement agencies did not fire any shots during the protest march organised by Inqilab Moncho near the state guest house Jamuna, demanding justice for the killing of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi. In a statement issued by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing, the government said that despite a ban on all forms of protests, rallies and gatherings in and around Jamuna and adjacent areas, law enforcers initially did not use any force against the protesters who began their march on Friday afternoon. The statement said the situation escalated when protesters broke through police barricades and attempted to advance towards Jamuna. At one stage, some protesters climbed onto a water cannon, prompting law enforcement agencies to intervene to bring the situation under control. To disperse the crowd, sound grenades and water cannons were used. The government firmly stated that no bullets were fired at any point during the incident. It said that the restrictions around Jamuna have been imposed to maintain public order and ensure the security of the Chief Adviser. In this context, police acted in a lawful and procedural manner to disperse the protesters. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police also confirmed that no lethal weapons were used during the operation. Nearly 40 injured as security forces crackdown on Inqilab Moncho march towards Jamuna According to information received from doctors on duty at the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, a total of 23 people, including Inqilab Moncho Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber, received medical treatment following the incident. However, doctors confirmed that none of the injured had sustained gunshot wounds. The government reiterated its firm commitment to ensuring justice for the killing of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi. It said the legal aspects of conducting an investigation under the United Nations are being reviewed thoroughly and an official letter will be sent to the relevant UN body on Sunday, February 8, 2026. Rejecting allegations of excessive use of force against protesters, the government urged all concerned to exercise patience, restraint and responsibility during this sensitive political period ahead of the upcoming election. It also called upon citizens to cooperate in ensuring a peaceful, fair, inclusive and credible election, describing the forthcoming polls as a historic milestone in the country’s democratic journey.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday said Bangladesh must use technology ethically to avoid misuse and succeed in a fast-changing digital world. “This country can never be a land of fraud. We want to hold our heads high through our own qualities. We have that capability,” he said, pointing finger at the challenges Bangladesh faces on the global stage due to the widespread use of fake documents. Citing an example of an individual who used all forged certificates to enter a foreign country as a doctor, Prof Yunus said the nation must move away from such practices to fully benefit from advanced technology. “Let us make up our minds that we will come out of fraud, take steps to ensure realistic policies, and build a pro-people system of governance,” the Chief Adviser said, expressing displeasure over the misuse of technology in producing fake documents. Prof Yunus inaugurates country’s largest Digital Device and Innovation Expo Prof Yunus pointed out that Bangladeshis are highly talented and creative, stressing that this talent and creativity must not be used for harmful or unethical purposes. He was speaking at the Inaugural session of the Digital Device and Innovation Expo 2026, the country’s largest technology showcase, at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC), stressing that tomorrow's world will be truly a different world. "It is absolutely a very important event. There is no doubt. This is a key sector," he said, seeking much importance that is required for this sector. The expo features innovation, digital devices, mobile technology, e-sports and B2B zones, alongside product discounts and special offers. The ICT Division, the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority (BHTPA) and the Bangladesh Computer Samity (BCS) are jointly hosting the country’s largest technology exhibition, which will continue until January 31. The inaugural session began with the playing of the national anthem, followed by a theme song of the expo. An audio-visual presentation was also screened. Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division Secretary Shish Haider Chowdhury and BCS President Mohammad Zahirul Islam and BHTPA Managing Director Md Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan also spoke at the opening session. Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb shared Bangladesh's ambitious target to increase its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) exports from approximately $1 billion to $5 billion by 2030. He assured the investors of protecting their investments.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday inaugurated the Digital Device and Innovation Expo 2026, the country’s largest technology showcase, at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC), stressing that the tomorrow's world will be truly a different world. "It is absolutely a very important event. There is no doubt. This is a key sector," he said, seeking much importance that is required for this sector. The expo features innovation, digital devices, mobile technology, e-sports and B2B zones, alongside product discounts and special offers. The ICT Division, the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority (BHTPA) and the Bangladesh Computer Samity (BCS) are jointly hosting the country’s largest technology exhibition, which will continue until January 31. The inaugural session began with the playing of the national anthem, followed by a theme song of the expo. An audio-visual presentation was also screened. Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division Secretary Shish Haider Chowdhury and BCS President Mohammad Zahirul Islam and BHTPA Managing Director Md Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan also spoke at the opening session. Prof Yunus calls on armed forces to uphold public trust in elections Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb shared Bangladesh's ambitious target to increase its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) exports from approximately $1 billion to $5 billion by 2030. He assured the investors of protecting their investments. Speakers at the opening ceremony highlighted the importance of building a digitally skilled nation through proper investment in developing human resources. They also discussed Bangladesh’s growing potential in exporting digital services. They expressed optimism that the country would soon be able to present new technologies to the world, rather than relying solely on technologies developed elsewhere. Bangladesh has set an ambitious target to increase its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) exports from approximately $1 billion–$1.4 billion currently to $5 billion by 2030. While previous targets The expo aims to attract technological innovation, showcase capabilities and successes, and encourage investment in the technology sector. Five seminars and four panel discussions are scheduled, focusing on digital transformation, global investment, the startup ecosystem, the national equipment identity register, financing and digital devices for students to build an intelligent society, bridging gaps in the innovation ecosystem, the deep-tech value chain, manufacturing and export vision, and inclusive digital transformation. Prof Yunus says fair polls possible, calls for readiness for all scenarios Entry to the expo is open to all through online or on-site registration. The venue will be fully Wi-Fi enabled using satellite internet technology. The expo serves as a major platform for showcasing state-of-the-art technologies and innovative ideas from various industries and universities.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Sunday urged all concerned to unite and work for the success of the upcoming election and the country, irrespective of victory or defeat in the election, scheduled for February 12. “We must hold a fair election under any circumstances. Please inform us of any urgent information, complaint or opinion related to the election. We will immediately bring it to the attention of the Election Commission. If the government needs to take any action, we will do so,” he said. Prof Yunus made the remarks when a four-member delegation of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami met him in the evening. Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman led the delegation at the meeting held at the State Guest House Jamuna. Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, Mia Golam Parwar and Rafiqul Islam Khan were present. Advisers Dr Wahid Uddin Mahmud, Adilur Rahman Khan and Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan attended the meeting. Chinese envoy meets Jamaat Ameer “This election and the referendum must be held successfully. No matter what anyone says, the election will be held on February 12. This will not be a random election. It is the collective responsibility of the government, the Election Commission and political parties to ensure a fair and festive electoral atmosphere. We seek the cooperation of all political parties in this regard,” the Chief Adviser said. Various election-related issues were discussed during the meeting. The Jamaat leaders said their election campaign would begin in full swing from January 22 and that the party had already started campaigning for a 'Yes' vote in the referendum. They said two campaigns would run simultaneously from that date. The Jamaat leaders also drew the Chief Adviser’s attention to several election-related concerns, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing. Regarding election security, Prof Yunus said polling centres would soon be brought under CCTV surveillance, with most centres to be covered. The installations are expected to be completed by late January. He said officials at sensitive centres would be equipped with body cameras, and all activities would be monitored from a central control room. The footage would be recorded to allow immediate action in case of any untoward incident.  

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is set to meet Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Thursday evening. A BNP Standing Committee member and a source at the Chief Adviser’s Office said that the meeting will be held in the evening at the Chief Adviser’s official residence Jamuna. They said Tarique will be accompanied by several BNP Standing Committee members and they are expected to discuss issues relating to the election atmosphere. This will be the second formal meeting between the Chief Adviser and the BNP Chairman. Tarique and Prof Yunus previously held their first one-to-one meeting in London on 13 June last year, when Tarique was serving as the party’s acting chairman. Following that meeting at the Dorchester Hotel, both sides issued a joint statement. After spending 17 years in exile in the United Kingdom, Tarique returned home on December 25. Upon landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, he spoke to Prof Yunus over the phone from the VIP lounge and thanked him for the interim government’s initiatives to ensure the security of him and his family members. The two briefly met again on December 31 during the namaz-e-janaza of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia on the Parliament premises. But Thursday’s meeting will mark their first formal talks since Tarique’s return. Indian envoy meets Tarique Rahman BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia passed away on December 30. As per the schedule announced by the Election Commission, the 13th National Parliamentary Election will be held on February 12.  A referendum on reforms and implementation of the July National Charter will also be held the same day.