United News of Bangladesh

Urging the government to be tougher and active on maintaining law and order, BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Wednesday (12th November 2025) said no one can obstruct the upcoming election by indulging in violence. “There is no reason to believe that anyone will be able to disrupt the upcoming election through acts of violence or sabotage. The people of Bangladesh are very aware and alert. They are eagerly waiting for the election,” he said. Talking to reporters after European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller’s meeting with BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam at the party Chairperson’s Gulshan office, Khosru also said election activities are now in full swing across all 300 constituencies of the country with great enthusiasm and participation. “Almost all political parties are now active on the ground, taking part in election-related activities. Campaigns and preparations are progressing smoothly in every area,” he said. EU Ambassador meets Mirza Fakhrul, discusses polls Asked for his comment on recent incidents of political unrest and violence, Khosru, a BNP Standing Committee member, said such issues concern everyone. “Law and order is always a matter of concern. We also have our concerns.” He said they hope the government will ensure that its law enforcement agencies remain strong, vigilant, and effective in addressing any such incidents. Responding to questions about the Awami League’s alleged violent activities and lockdown programme, the BNP leader said, “The Awami League is neither in the race nor active in the country. Their leader is not even present. So, there is nothing to discuss.” He also said they believe anyone, not just the Awami League, can potentially carry out such violent acts. “It is the responsibility of the law enforcement agencies to perform their duties properly to protect the country from such activities.” Govt to be solely responsible if reforms imposed beyond consensus: Fakhrul Khosru said those who are not contesting in the election or are absent from the country, and whose activities have been suspended, may attempt violent acts, and other quarters could also be involved. “But it is the government’s responsibility to deal with them. They have intelligence agencies and law enforcement agencies, and we hope the government will be more active in handling these matters effectively. Through this, we will be able to move forward towards the election.” Speaking about BNP’s nomination list, Khosru said, “After announcing candidates for 237 seats, the list has been widely accepted. Reports from various quarters indicate that the nominations are well received.” Regarding Jamaat’s Amir’s comment that no election will be held next year without the legal recognition of the July Charter, he said, “We have already discussed and reached an agreement. The charter was signed. Beyond that, we are not aware of any remaining issues. After so many discussions and the signing of the charter, it is not clear what else could still be pending.” Read more: Tarique Rahman likely to return home by end of November: Salahuddin

European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller on Thursday said the clean energy transition is about people - their access to reliable power and their access to economic opportunities. "This campaign should make us think about how we can all work to build a sustainable future for individuals and communities in Bangladesh," he said. The European Union (EU) and renowned Bangladeshi hip-hop artist Critical Mahmood launched the "I’ve Got the Power" campaign. Giving voice to a clean energy future for Bangladesh. Critical Mahmood and the European Union collaborated on a new track “I’VE GOT THE POWER.” This campaign celebrates the strong partnership between Bangladesh and the EU for a greener, sustainable future - for all. The campaign focuses on the transformative impact of EU-supported initiatives in Bangladesh that provide renewable solutions for individuals and local communities. Critical Mahmood’s track, I’ve Got the Power, is the inspirational anthem of the campaign, highlighting the potential of clean energy to improve lives and encouraging them to adapt. Critical Mahmood said, “As an artist, it is my passion to support positive change with an impact on real people. Renewable energy is crucial for the future prosperity of Bangladesh and I’m proud to lend my voice to inspire change and contribute to a larger mission in collaboration with the European Union.” Italy, Albania, and the UAE sign clean energy deal The EU’s Global Gateway initiative underpins the campaign, and is exemplified by projects like the Bangladesh Renewable Energy Facility, which aims to install approximately 750 MW of renewable energy capacity, primarily through utility-scale solar photovoltaic and onshore wind projects, alongside battery storage systems, according to the EU Embassy Dhaka The EU-Bangladesh partnership empowers individuals like Selim, a Kaligonj-based e-rickshaw driver who relies on electricity to power the lithium battery for his vehicle. This enables him to navigate the city efficiently, providing a stable income for his family. Nusrat, a rising cricket star, is able to hone her cricket skills day and night, thanks to the renewable energy that illuminates her training facilities. Their stories illustrate how the Global Gateway initiative has a direct positive impact on individuals and small businesses. Critical Mahmood is a Bangladeshi hip-hop artist known for blending traditional Bengali sounds with modern hip-hop beats. Empowering Bangladesh with clean energy today means a brighter, sustainable future for generations to come: Peter Haas He is known for his socially conscious music lyrics and, most recently, for his involvement in the "I’ve Got the Power" campaign, reflecting his commitment to having a positive impact on society and the environment.