United News of Bangladesh

Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Monday (December 08, 2025) said his party intends to form a national government if it comes to power, even if it secures 200 parliamentary seats independently, aiming to safeguard national interest and ensure political stability. He made the remarks while briefing reporters after paying a courtesy call on European Union Ambassador Michael Miller in Gulshan. Ambassadors and diplomats at the meeting also included Swedish Ambassador Nicholas Wicks; Norwegian Ambassador Hakon Arald Gulbrandsen; German Ambassador Dr Rüdiger Lotz; Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro; French Deputy Head of Mission Frédéric Inza; Dutch Deputy Head of Mission Thijs Woudstra; EU Deputy Head of Mission Baiba Zarina; and Sebastian Rieger Braun, First Secretary at the EU Delegation. Read more: 'No govt in 54 years has worked for people’s welfare': Jamaat's Mujibur Rahman During the meeting, EU representatives asked about issues including the Rohingya crisis, public security, the party’s election manifesto, and its 100-day plan after assuming office. In response, the Jamaat chief assured them that his party would work to build an ‘inclusive Bangladesh’, if elected. “We will not exclude any political party. A national government is essential for the next five years to restore the economy, ensure stability, establish the rule of law, and curb corruption,” he said. He also outlined two conditions for joining the national government: no member would be allowed to engage in or tolerate corruption, and equal justice must be ensured with no political interference in the judiciary. Read more: Now Jamaat replaces election candidate in Lalmonirhat-3 Speaking about holding the national election and referendum simultaneously, Shafiqur Rahman said voter awareness was still not adequate for two major ballots on the same day, warning that both processes could be hampered. He recommended keeping them separate. Responding to allegations of using religion in politics, he said religion is part of Jamaat’s ideology, not a tool. “We do not exploit religion. Those who suddenly appear with caps and prayer beads only during elections are the ones using religion,” he said. He reiterated that the upcoming parliamentary election scheduled for February must not be postponed. “We believe the election should be held on time, in February.” Read more: Jamaat leader Parwar pushes for referendum before national election The Jamaat chief also reaffirmed the party’s support for the proportional representation (PR) electoral system, saying it has been demanded in the interest of the people and that Jamaat would implement it, if elected.

European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller on Wednesday said they are working to ensure that the next Bangladesh Parliament will provide comprehensive democratic oversight and accountability in relation to the country’s finances. Speaking at a high-level event in Dhaka to highlight its support to Bangladesh on Public Financial Management (PFM), he reaffirmed the strength of the EU’s partnership with Bangladesh and its commitment to support reforms. The envoy stressed the EU’s role as a steadfast friend and reliable partner of Bangladesh, contributing to stronger institutions and inclusive development. "The European Union stands with Bangladesh at this pivotal moment. We support the delivery of an ambitious reform agenda," said Ambassador Miller. Already, he said, they are helping Bangladesh digitise tax policy management and returns, reinforcing the work of the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General as an independent authority – essential for structural reforms to stick in place. EU lists Bangladesh, 6 other countries as ‘safe’ to speed up migrant returns Speaking as the chief guest, Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed underlined the significance of continued reform and the value of the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and the European Union in driving change across key governance sectors. The event was attended by Md Nurul Islam, Comptroller and Auditor General of Bangladesh; Md Abdur Rahman Khan, Chairman of the National Board of Revenue; Dr Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder, Secretary of the Finance Division and Md Mizanur Rahman ndc, Secretary of the Bangladesh Parliament Secretariat. Representatives of the three institutions delivered presentations highlighting key achievements, lessons learnt, and plans to sustain reform efforts over the long term. The European Union hosted the high-level event in Dhaka to highlight its support to Bangladesh on Public Financial Management (PFM). The EU-funded programme is playing a key role in improving institutional governance and financial accountability in Bangladesh, said the EU Embassy in Dhaka. The EU is focusing its support on enhancing the performance of three crucial national institutions. Support to the National Board of Revenue has contributed to improving domestic revenue mobilisation. At the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General of Bangladesh, the programme has helped strengthen external audit functions. The Bangladesh Parliament Secretariat has received targeted assistance aimed at enabling more effective support to the Financial Oversight Committees of Parliament in scrutinising public expenditure. The three institutions are central to building stronger public financial management - ensuring that public funds are collected efficiently, audited independently and used transparently. EU underlines need for transparent investment environment