United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh Bank (BB) has hiked the policy interest rate (repo rate) by 50 basis points to 9 percent as part of efforts to rein in inflation. On Sunday, the central bank took the decision to raise the policy rate at a meeting of the monetary policy committee. Over three months ago, the policy rate was last increased by 50 basis points to 8.5 percent on May 8. At that time the rate was hiked in line with the prescription of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as there was no sign of easing in inflation, which stayed over 9 percent since March last year. After the 12-month average inflation stood at 9.73 percent in FY2023-24, consumer prices were up by 11.66 percent in July, the highest in 14 years. As a result, people's purchasing capacity had worsened, said the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). The government targeted to keep inflation within 7.5 percent for the last fiscal year. And, this was the fifth year when inflation overshot the budgetary goal.

The power supply situation has been improving in the flood affected areas. Available statistics show that now operations of 14 power sub-stations under the Rural Electrification Board (REB) remained suspended on Sunday due to the flood, which was 17 on Saturday. It shows power supply resumed through 3 sub-stations on the day which were closed on the previous day. The number of 11 kV feeders which still remained closed on Sunday is 133. On the previous day, the number of closed 11 kV feeders was 160. The flood affected 11 Palli Bidyut Samity areas include Chandpur-1, Noakhali, Feni, Lakshmipur, Cumilla-2, Cumilla-4, Chattogram-2, Chattogram-3, Cox's Bazar, Moulvibazar, and Bhola. Earlier Brahmanbaria PBS was also affected by the flood. But the PBS is now out of flood, according to REB statistics. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) statistics show that only seven 11 kV feeders remained out of operation because of flood while 13 closed 11 kV feeders resumed power supply showing improvement in power supply in the flood affected areas. The areas which were impacted by flood under the BPDB include Cumilla, Chauddagram, Brahmanbaria, Chowmuhani and Feni. Electricity supply to 29,400 people was disrupted by flood, said the BPDB while REB said that power supply to 7,80,745 consumers was disrupted.

Interim government's  Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Sunday urged the country’s people to be patient and allow time for the mountain-like challenges to be overcome gradually, rather than insisting on immediate solutions.  “I would like to say, you have to be patient.  We must avoid forcing all demands to be met now, entering the institution and threatening individuals, pressing for accepting the case and tendency to punish arrested individuals in the court before their trial,” he said. In his televised address to the nation, Prof Yunus warned that unruly behavior could undermine the glory and potential of the people's revolution and hinder efforts to build a new Bangladesh. Stating that it has been only two weeks since the current government took office, the chief adviser sincerely thanked the people for their support during the initial phase of state reforms. “We understand that you have high expectations from us, and we are committed to fulfilling them. The long period of democratic deficit and 15 years of fascist rule that have left us with mountain-like challenges in nearly every sector. We are prepared to face these challenges.” Dr Yunus, the 2006 Nobel peace laureate, said it is difficult to overcome the current situation of the country overnight as his government is working to rebuild the country standing on a structure that is quite contrary to the public interest. “We want to build the country in such a way so that its people truly become the source of all power. We want it to be recognized as a humane and welfare-oriented nation on the global stage. We must succeed in state reforms to honor the sacrifices of the younger generation, students, and the people. There is no alternative to this,” he observed. The chief adviser said local government institutions will be empowered and decentralization of power will be ensured to strengthen democracy. Polls to be arranged after necessary reforms He said a free, fair, and participatory election will be arranged after completing necessary reforms in the administration, judiciary, Election Commission and electoral system, law and order, and information flow to bring the student-led mass upsurge to a successful conclusion. “This will initiate a new political arrangement focused on accountability and combating corruption, looting, and mass killing,” Dr Yunus said. Mentioning that the current government has taken a clear stance against corruption, he said all the advisors will present their asset details within the shortest possible time. “Gradually, this will become a regular and mandatory practice for all government officials.” To address corruption at the state level, the chief adviser said an ordinance must be promulgated for the appointment of an ombudsman as promised in Article 77 of the Constitution. He said a committee has already been formed to prepare a white paper on the corruption, money laundering, and anti-public interest agreements of the past 15 years. “I have been meeting with ambassadors from different countries and representatives of donor organizations…I am requesting their support for all forms of economic and other assistance needed for rebuilding the country following the student-led mass upsurge,” Dr Yunus said.  They have shown interest in this matter. We are working to draft and send our proposals to them promptly. I have also requested that they expedite the release of funds due to the urgent circumstances. I have conveyed that while the current situation is challenging, it presents a significant opportunity for the nation. I am seeking their cooperation to fully capitalize on this opportunity. This was his second speech to the nation since his appointment as chief adviser to the interim government on August 8.

Interim government Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, said on Sunday that all necessary steps have been taken to restore normalcy in the flood-affected regions of Bangladesh. Speaking in a televised address, Prof Yunus emphasized the importance of both domestic and regional cooperation to tackle such crises in the future. “We are one family. We have one goal,” Prof Yunus declared. “We are committed to fulfilling the aspirations of our youth, and we are ready to take on this challenge.” He called on the nation to support these efforts wholeheartedly, stressing the need to focus on long-term solutions rather than seeking immediate fixes or resorting to vigilante justice. During his speech, the Nobel Peace Laureate also revealed plans to establish a ‘July Mass Killing Memorial Foundation’. This marked his second national address since assuming the role of Chief Adviser on August 8. Prof Yunus said after the fascist government left the country in the face of a popular movement, they want to build a country where the human rights of every citizen will be fully protected. “Our goal is one—a liberal, democratic, non-discriminatory, non-communal Bangladesh. We are one family. We have one goal. We are committed to not let any differences hinder our dreams,” he said. Prof Yunus said only two weeks have passed since the current government assumed responsibility. “Thank you very much for the support I am getting from you in the first stage of the work of reforming the state.” He said they understand that people’s expectations from the government are high and they are determined to fulfill this expectation. Fifteen years of fascist rule left a mountain of challenges in almost every area, Prof Yunus said. “But we are ready to accept this challenge. Today, I have come before you to seek your prayers and cooperation on behalf of the government. I will only say, you have to be patient,” he said. The interim government has already started various reforms, he said. "Political decisions will come from political discussions. If we do not get this direction, we cannot move forward firmly in discussions with donor organizations and international economic institutions,” he said. He said the advisers have taken this responsibility at the call of students during the country's crisis. “We will fulfill this responsibility with all our strength. Our advisory board is also motivated by this goal and everyone is working as a team.” He said, "When the election will be held is a completely political decision, not our decision. The countrymen have to decide when you want us to leave.” The students are their primary appointers and the vast public of the country has supported their appointment, said Prof Yunus. He said they will constantly remind everyone about this so that the question does not suddenly arise when they will leave. The Election Commission will also be reformed, said the head of the interim government. He said that the Election Commission aims to prepare for a model election at any time. According to the Disaster Management and Relief Ministry, the ongoing floods have stranded at least 10 lakh families across 73 upazilas in 11 districts as of Sunday afternoon. While no new fatalities were reported by 3 pm today, two individuals remain missing in Moulvibazar. The overall death toll stands at 18, with 52,09,798 people affected across Feni, Cumilla, Chattogram, Khagrachari, Noakhali, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Brahmanbaria, Sylhet, Laxmipur, and Cox’s Bazar. The ministry detailed that of the 18 deaths, four occurred in Cumilla, one in Feni, five in Chattogram, three in Noakhali, one each in Brahmanbaria and Laxmipur, and three in Cox’s Bazar. A total of 10,47,029 families have been impacted by the floods, which span 545 municipalities and unions. Amid the crisis, at least 4,15,273 people have sought refuge in 3,654 shelter centers, where 22,298 domestic animals are also being housed. The government has deployed 748 medical teams to provide essential healthcare services in the affected areas. In response to the disaster, the government has allocated Tk 3.52 crore to the 11 flood-hit districts, alongside 20,650 tonnes of rice, 15,000 packages of dry food, baby food, and fodder valued at Tk 35 lakh each. Private organizations, businesses, and the general public have also joined the relief efforts. Deputy commissioners in the flood-affected areas have been instructed to coordinate with various stakeholders, including the coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement, the army, navy, medical teams, and other volunteers.

The Hindu community in Bangladesh is set to celebrate Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, on Monday with due religious fervor. According to Hindu religion, Lord Vishnu incarnated in the universe as Lord Krishna in the prison of Raja Kangsa on this day, the eighth of “Shukla Pakkha” (bright fortnight) in the month of Bengali calendar Bhadra in Dwapara Yuga in order to protect “Dharma” from the hands of evils. Sri Krishna was born to Devaki and her husband Vasudeva in Mathura. The day is a public holiday in Bangladesh. Besides, national dailies published special articles while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television and other private TV channels and radio stations aired special programmes highlighting different aspects of the eventful life of Lord Krishna.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Sunday handed over a cheque of USD 20,000 to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus for the Flood Relief Fund of the Chief Adviser from the embassy. During a courtesy meeting at state guesthouse Jamuna, the Ambassador said the Chinese Red Cross would also donate USD 100,000 as humanitarian aid to Bangladesh's flood affected people. He said Bangladesh was at the crossroads but "the people of Bangladesh will overcome the challenges." Bangladesh has experienced its worst flooding in years, and the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh deeply empathized with the situation. Chinese diplomats to deliver aid to flood-affected Feni and support Bangladesh Red Crescent Upon learning of the extensive damage and urgent needs in the affected areas, the Chinese Embassy immediately began preparing to provide necessary relief supplies. In the face of the significant challenges posed by the flooding in Bangladesh, the Chinese Embassy has demonstrated the deep friendship between the peoples of China and Bangladesh through concrete actions, said the Embassy. Minister Counselor and Deputy Chief of Mission Liu Yuyin, on behalf of the Embassy, donated ready-to-eat meals (Khichuri), drinking water, and essential living supplies to the hardest-hit area of Feni. This initial batch of relief supplies will benefit 2,000 people. In the coming week, the relief donations will continue, providing food and supplies to a total of 6,000 people. To convey warmth to the disaster victims, the Chinese Embassy specially prepared the food according to local dietary habits and distributed it while still hot, aiming to provide comfort and support to those in need. Floods woes intensify in Cumilla: Relief efforts hampered by lack of boats As the floodwaters recede and displaced residents gradually return to their homes, the Embassy plans to distribute food packages and other supplies to 1,300 households (approximately 5,200 people) to help them rebuild their homes.

A case has been filed against 50 people including film actor Zayed Khan, Saju Khadem and Shahriar Nazim Joy, for carrying out an attack on the motorcade of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia during electioneering nine years ago. Singer Asif Imam filed the case with Dhaka Metropolitan Court on Sunday. Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Zaki-Al-Farabi asked the Motijheel Police Station to record the case as ‘ezhar’. Awami League leaders--Sheikh Selim, Sheikh Helal, Col Faruk Khan, Fazle Noor Taposh, Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Maya, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, Mujibur Rahman Chowdhury, alias Nixon Chowdhury, Sayeed Khokon, BFF President Kazi Salahuddin, journalist Shaban Mahmood, Workers Party president Rashed Khan Menon, Jasad president Hasanul Haque Inu, ex-addtional deputy commissioner Mehedi Hasan were among the accused. Murder case filed against 28 people inc Maizbhandari, SP, OC in Ctg According to the case statement, the attackers equipped with arms attacked BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s motorcade during electioneering in front of the BNP’s Nayapaltan Central office on April 20, 2015. During the attack, 12-14 vehicles were vandalised, four motorbikes were torched and a number of leaders and activists were physically assaulted. They also hurled brick chips targeting Khaleda Zia. Leaders and activists of Awami League-led 14-party alliance and its associated bodies exploded bombs during the attack.  

The possibility of seeking additional support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) may be on the agenda when Finance and Commerce Adviser Dr. Saleh Uddin Ahmed, along with key officials, attends the annual meetings of the IMF and World Bank Group in October. Dr. Saleh Uddin said this on Sunday following a view-exchange meeting with UN representatives at his office in the Economic Relations Division in Dhaka’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. He stressed that the government would prioritize its needs before taking on any loans, cautioning against extending short-term projects unnecessarily, which could increase the debt burden. “We’re seeking support not to waste or misuse it,” he emphasized, underscoring the government’s commitment to responsible financial management. Finance Adviser Dr. Saleh Uddin asserts firm stance on black money, says govt will recover funds siphoned abroad Addressing the ongoing protests against various forms of discrimination, the Adviser acknowledged the legitimacy of these concerns. “We can’t ignore such discrimination. These issues have been suppressed for so long, and their woes have not been addressed. No one paid heed to them before, which is why we haven’t deterred the protests,” he remarked. He also noted that he had to use the metro rail to reach the meeting due to the protests surrounding the Secretariat. Dr. Saleh Uddin explained that while the government is committed to addressing these issues, not all problems can be resolved immediately due to the complexities involved. When asked about the outcomes of the meeting with UN representatives, he highlighted the government’s commitment to equality-based development, with a focus on growth in women’s rights, gender equality, health, and education. “Our priorities are aligned with their programs. We want the UN agencies to support us in our priority areas. It’s not about accepting support for all projects they suggest,” he clarified. The Adviser emphasized that the government aims for sustainable, equality-based development for the general population, with targeted support from UN agencies. He also noted that the government had requested special focus from the UN, particularly from UNHCR, on the situation of forcibly displaced Rohingyas. Dr. Saleh Uddin mentioned that the UN agencies shared ideas related to various ministries and divisions, which will be communicated to the relevant departments in due course. The meeting also covered discussions on post-flood rehabilitation operations. ERD Secretary Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky and ILO Country Director and Ad Interim UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Tuomo Poutiainen were among the speakers at the meeting.  

Ansar members have agreed to suspend their ongoing protest and return to work following discussions with Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam on Sunday. The announcement came after a delegation of Ansar personnel, led by Nasir Miah, Coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Ansar Members, met with the Adviser at the Secretariat to voice their grievances. A preliminary decision was made during the meeting to revoke the six-month rest rule currently imposed on Ansar personnel, a key demand of the protesters. Protesting Ansar personnel block Secretariat entrances Regarding the demand for the nationalization of their jobs, the Home Adviser assured the delegation that the matter would be “considered based on the report of the recommendation committee.” Earlier in the day, Ansar personnel had blockaded all five gates of the Secretariat, demanding the nationalization of their positions. The protesters claimed they have been subjected to prolonged discrimination and expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises to address their concerns.

The government is taking a firm stand against the generation of black money, Finance and Commerce Adviser Dr. Saleh Uddin Ahmed said on Sunday. “Our intention is clear—there will be no scope to generate black money anymore,” Dr. Saleh Uddin said emphatically during a press briefing following a view-exchange meeting with UN representatives at his office in the Economic Relations Division, in Dhaka’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. Dr. Saleh Uddin, a former governor of Bangladesh Bank, stressed that any loopholes allowing the creation of black money would be closed. If there is any scope, then black money will be generated, he warned, underlining the need for strict monitoring and regulatory measures. Addressing concerns about money siphoned abroad, the Adviser confirmed that the government is actively working to stop this practice and to recover the illicit funds. “We are taking moves to bring back the siphoned money,” he assured, adding that Bangladesh Bank is already engaged in this effort. Dr. Saleh Uddin also noted that the government is prepared to provide any necessary legal assistance to facilitate the recovery of funds and to ensure that those responsible for financial crimes are held accountable. “If there is any need for legal assistance, the government is there to provide it,” he stated. When asked about the possibility of revising the budgetary provisions related to this issue, he responded that it is not yet the appropriate time to discuss such matters, but assured that budgetary considerations would be reviewed at a later stage.