United News of Bangladesh

Newly-appointed Education Minister A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon has assured that question paper leaks and cheating will not return under his tenure. Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Education on Wednesday, the minister said, “During my previous tenure, effective steps were taken to stop cheating and question paper leaks. I firmly believe these issues will not resurface.” He outlined plans for comprehensive reforms aimed at modernizing the education system and bringing it up to global standards. “We will review curricula, emphasize digital literacy and English proficiency, and introduce subjects like nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and robotics to meet the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” he said. He added that the main challenge is ensuring employment after education, and the system will be designed with this goal in mind. Addressing students, Milon said, “We cannot move forward with a backdated education system. The world has become a global village, and our education must align with international standards. Meeting people’s expectations is our sole mission: Labour Minister We will work on transforming the system through digital platforms, technology-driven skills, and modern knowledge-based curricula.” On allegations of irregularities and corruption in the ministry, the minister said, “We will not hold past governments accountable for what they did. However, there was no corruption during the previous tenure, and there will be none this time either. Regarding complaints about MPO inclusion and institutional recognition, necessary inquiries will be conducted and updates will follow.” When asked about increasing salaries and benefits for private teachers, he said the government is aware of the matter and decisions will be announced in due course. Education State Minister Bobby Hajjaj was also present. State Minister Hajjaj said textbooks will be prepared following global standards observed by developed countries. “Particularly for history books, opinions from multiple historians will be considered to ensure alignment with global standards. The government’s focus is on doing things correctly in the future rather than dwelling on past mistakes,” he said. Secondary and Higher Education Secretary Rehana Parvin, Technical and Madrasa Education Secretary Muhammad Rafiqul Islam, directors general of various departments under the ministry, and officials from different levels of the Education Ministry were present at the conference.

The government on Wednesday appointed Abu Abdullah M Saleh (Saleh Shibly) as Press Secretary to the Prime Minister with the status of secretary on a contractual basis. In a separate order, Atikur Rahman Rumon was appointed Additional Press Secretary on a contractual basis. The Ministry of Public Administration issued separate notifications in this regard. Earlier, on January 3, Shibly was appointed Press Secretary to Tarique Rahman, Chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party, while Rumon has long been working as a member of the BNP Media Cell. Shibly has long handled key press and administrative responsibilities under Tarique Rahman and was made chief of a BNP press coordination team formed on November 1 last year. He began his journalism career as a campus reporter for the Daily Banglabazar while studying Public Administration at the  University of Dhaka, where he later completed his Master’s degree. Over the years, he worked in different branches of the media, including the news agency United News of Bangladesh (UNB), the Daily Manab Zamin, Radio Today and Channel i During the tenure of the four-party alliance government, he served as First Secretary (Press) at the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata. Several of his articles on women’s empowerment were published in Asian Bridge, a magazine of the Kitakyushu Forum on Asian Women. While abroad, he worked as Executive Editor of London-based Bengali-language television channel Channel S and earned a PhD focusing on media and public administration. He also served as a Non-Resident Fellow at the Sydney Policy and Analysis Centre. Shibly returned to Bangladesh on December 25 on the same flight as Tarique Rahman did from the United Kingdom. He is also the author of the book Tarique Rahmaner Nishiddha Bhashan (The Forbidden Speeches of Tarique Rahman).

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Impact Investment Exchange (IIX) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Wednesday at the UNDP Bangladesh office to promote gender-inclusive sustainable finance in Bangladesh. The partnership will help develop new types of bonds, called Orange Bonds that raise funds for women-led businesses and underserved communities. The aim is to attract more private investment while ensuring transparency, accountability, and clear development results. Govt signs two project documents with UNDP Under this collaboration, UNDP and IIX will carry out studies, support policy discussions, engage with key stakeholders, and provide technical support and training to potential bond issuers. They will also help strengthen monitoring and reporting systems so that investments deliver real and measurable impact. “Mobilizing capital for gender equality and climate resilience requires strong market infrastructure, informed policy dialogue, and trusted partnerships,” said Stefan Liller, Resident Representative at UNDP Bangladesh. “This collaboration with IIX allows us to combine UNDP’s policy expertise and country presence with global innovations in sustainable finance.” IIX, the creator of the Orange Bond Principles, brings experience in gender-focused investing, bond design, independent verification, and impact measurement. The Orange Bond Initiative, inspired by Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality, aims to direct investment toward projects that advance women’s empowerment and climate action, while building investor confidence through clear standards. "UNDP has been playing an instrumental role in shaping Bangladesh's impact and sustainable finance ecosystem,” said Prof Durreen Shahnaz, Founder and CEO of IIX. UNDP to support Bangladesh’s capital market with thematic bond development “Our partnership with UNDP reflects our shared commitment to engage with key public, private, civil society, and development sector stakeholders toward strengthening the impact investment and Orange capital markets in the country. The partnership will enable the institutional adoption of inclusive finance, creating pathways for meaningful and measurable change for women and underserved communities to help achieve the country's SDG agenda." As Bangladesh prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC), access to concessional finance and trade benefits is expected to decrease,” said UNDP. Strengthening capital markets and introducing innovative financial tools will be key to sustaining growth and ensuring development remains inclusive and resilient. The UNDP-IIX partnership reflects a shared commitment to building a transparent, inclusive, and forward-looking sustainable finance ecosystem that supports Bangladesh’s long-term development goals.

The BNP-led government began its first day with tributes to martyrs and senior ministers unveiling policy directives and pledges to ease life ahead of Ramadan while setting a roadmap for governance. Homage A day after taking oath following a sweeping victory in the 13th national election, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman began his first working day by paying tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War. Around 11am, he placed a wreath at the altar of the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, on the outskirts of Dhaka.  Flanked by the members of his new cabinet, Tarique Rahman laid another wreath and stood in solemn silence in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence. The Prime Minister later signed the visitors’ book and planted a ‘Parijat’ sapling on the memorial premises. Tribute to BNP Leaders Later, Tarique Rahman and his cabinet colleagues paid homage to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. The Prime Minister placed wreaths at their graves and offered Fateha and special prayers seeking eternal peace for the departed souls of his parents. First Cabinet Meeting In the afternoon, the Prime Minister chaired the first cabinet meeting of the new government at Secretariat. At the meeting, he ordered keeping essential commodity prices stable, maintain law and order, and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the holy month of Ramadan. PM orders steps to keep prices stable, ensure uninterrupted power supply during Ramadan Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan reporters after the meeting, saying the cabinet discussed possible urgent national issues. “In light of discussions, the Prime Minister advised all of us regarding the government’s immediate priorities.” He said the respective ministers would submit action plans to the Prime Minister within the next couple of days. “We have calculated that addressing the urgent problems to a respectable level would require at least 180 days. A draft plan has already been prepared, and the nation will soon be informed,” he said. On fulfilling political pledges, particularly media freedom, the Information Minister said ensuring the free flow of information and independence of the media is one of the government’s key commitments. Deadly Against Mob Culture Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Wednesday said that the ‘mob culture’ must come to an end in the country.  “The government is determined to completely eliminate ‘mob culture’ in Bangladesh. Mob culture is over. No one will be allowed to engage in mob activities in the name of realising demands.” “We want to build the ministry as a corruption-free institution,” he said, adding, “If anyone from any force is found involved in criminal activities, immediate investigation and action will be taken.” He also urged officials to perform their duties with transparency and accountability, warning that no illegal lobbying would be tolerated. PM Tarique Rahman to address nation at 9:45pm  Stressing the need to restore public trust in law enforcement, the Home Minister said police must become friends of the people. The image of the police that has been damaged must be rebuilt. Fear-Free Media The Information Minister also pledged to create a media environment free from fear and ensure protection for journalists. After visiting the Jatiya Press Club, he stressed that media development is impossible without addressing journalists’ problems and emphasised the importance of independent journalism. State Minister for Information Yeaser Khan Chowdhury was present during the visit. Law and Order, Mob Violence Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said efforts would be made to control mob violence and improve law and order. “We have passed through a storm, a revolution, a mass uprising. Not everything can be fixed immediately,” he said, adding that the cabinet would work to solve people’s problems and move the country forward under the Prime Minister’s leadership. Airport Services Reform State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat said the government plans to ensure that passengers, particularly overseas travellers, receive their luggage at the conveyor belt immediately after completing immigration procedures. He said the initiative is part of a broader plan to improve airport services. Austerity Signal from PM Prime Minister Tarique Rahman decided to use his personal vehicle instead of the government-provided one. According to BNP Media Cell member Atikur Rahman Rumon, the Prime Minister travelled to Savar, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar and the Secretariat in his own Toyota vehicle, using his personal driver and fuel, signalling a shift towards austerity in official protocol. Move to Defer LDC Graduation Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said the government would take necessary steps to defer Bangladesh’s graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status. “We will take all required measures to defer the LDC graduation. Work has already begun,” he told reporters at the Secretariat, adding that the Ministry of Commerce would coordinate with the Economic Relations Division to expedite necessary procedures.

Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury on Wednesday said the government must work in line with people’s expectations and emphasised team-based efforts to achieve success. “Our mission is one. People’s expectations are high, and we must work accordingly,” he said, adding that coordinated teamwork across the ministry would be essential. “If everyone in the ministry works together with sincerity, we will succeed.” The minister made the remarks while addressing an introductory meeting with officials and employees at the Ministry of Labour and Employment on his first working day after taking oath. Ariful Haque Chowdhury said the ministry would review activities of the past year to identify gaps and set clear targets for the next 100 days. “This country belongs to us. We need to prepare a roadmap for what we will deliver within the next 100 days,” he said. He urged officials to share their experience and guidance, assuring that all work would be carried out within the Rules of Business and existing regulations. “Wherever something is needed, please inform us clearly,” he added. Highlighting the upcoming month of Ramadan, the minister said advance measures must be taken to prevent labour unrest in labour-intensive industries and factories ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, particularly in the final days of Ramadan. Salahuddin sounds the death knell for mob culture Speaking at the meeting, State Minister Md Nurul Haque said a three-month work plan should be prepared so the ministry can clearly demonstrate achievements within that period. The state minister noted that labour movements often occur around Eid and stressed the need for early preparation to identify potential sectors and resolve issues in advance. Labour and Employment Secretary Sarwar Jahan Bhuiyan, along with senior officials from the ministry and its affiliated departments and agencies, were present at the meeting.

The Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has congratulated the newly formed government of Bangladesh following the swearing-in of the Cabinet, led by Honorable Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Chamber expressed optimism that the new leadership's vision for national progress will catalyze "timely and effective actions" to bolster economic growth and stabilize the country’s investment climate. Rupali Haque Chowdhury elected FICCI president for 2026-27 FICCI, the apex body for multinational companies in Bangladesh, emphasized the need for a transition toward more investor-friendly policies. The Chamber highlighted that sustainable development will require: FDI-Friendly Policies: Prioritizing foreign direct investment to drive innovation and competition. Regulatory Reforms: Implementing structural changes to increase transparency and bolster investor confidence. Enhanced Ease of Doing Business: Reducing the cost of operations and clarifying policy frameworks for international businesses. A "Defining Moment" for the Nation FICCI President Rupali Haque Chowdhury described the current political transition as a "defining moment" in Bangladesh's history. FICCI, Competition Commission discuss Competition Act to foster fair market "We wish the government every success in steering the country forward," she said, stressing that restoring confidence is vital for driving global competitiveness and job creation.

Newly appointed Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Wednesday said that the ‘mob culture’ must come to an end in the country. “The government is determined to completely eliminate ‘mob culture’ in Bangladesh. Mob culture is over. No one will be allowed to engage in mob activities in the name of realising demands,” he said. The Home Minister came up with the remarks while talking to reporters at an introductory meeting with officials on his first working day at the Secretariat on Wednesday. However, rallies and gatherings can be held and memorandums can be submitted to make legitimate claims as the democratic process will continue, he said. He also urged for maintaining transparency and accountability in the Home Ministry’s operations. “We want to build the ministry as a corruption-free institution,” he said, adding “If anyone from any force is found involved in criminal activities, immediate investigation and action will be taken.” He also urged officials to perform their duties with transparency and accountability, warning that no illegal lobbying would be tolerated. Stressing the need to restore public trust in law enforcement, the Home Minister said police must become friends of the people. The image of the police that has been damaged must be rebuilt.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will address the nation at 9:45 pm instead of 7 pm on Wednesday, a day after he was sworn in following a massive election victory. “The Prime Minister will address the nation at 9:45 pm tonight,” said BNP Media Cell member Atikur Rahman Rumon. Bangladesh Television will broadcast the address live, he added. Earlier, Information Minister Zahiruddin Swapan had said the Prime Minister would address the nation at 7 pm. Tarique took oath as the 11th Prime Minister of the country on Tuesday as his party secured a landslide victory in the 13th parliamentary election held on February 12, winning 209 parliamentary seats out of 297. President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath of office and secrecy to the Prime Minister and his new ministers at the South Plaza of Parliament on Tuesday. Apart from Tarique, the new government includes 25 ministers and 24 state ministers, with a strong presence of new faces.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has moved to file a major corruption and money laundering case against senior executives of Bashundhara Group and present and former directors and officials of National Bank over the alleged embezzlement of Tk 1,325 crore in bank loans. Director General of ACC Akhtar Hossen briefed reporters in this regard at the head office of the Commission on Wednesday. According to the case summary, the accused include Ahmed Akbar Sobhan, Chairman of Bashundhara Group; Safiat Sobhan, Managing Director of Bashundhara Multi Food Products Ltd; Moynal Hossain Chowdhury, director of the same company; and two authorised signatories of the company’s current account—Major General( retired) Mohammad Mahbub Haider Khan and Captain( retired) Mohammad Ruhul Amin. Several senior National Bank officials and board members have also been named. They include former branch manager and branch credit committee chairman Md Ekramul Haque, former and serving senior vice presidents, vice presidents and credit committee members of the bank’s Dilkusha branch, as well as former managing director Chowdhury Mostak Ahmed (C M Ahmed) and multiple current and former directors of the bank. Among them is AKM Enamul Haque Shamim, director of National Bank PLC. The ACC alleged that the accused, acting in collusion and with dishonest intent, the National Bank officials abused their authority and violated the bank’s Policy and Procedural Guidelines on Credit Risk Management to approve and disburse massive loans in the name of Bashundhara Multi Food Products Ltd. Investigators say loans were approved without adequate supporting collateral, relying instead on fixed and floating securities, and without mandatory Fortnightly Stock Reports. The borrower’s repayment capacity was allegedly not assessed before sanctioning the large loans. Factory or business inspection reports and stock reports were also missing, while blank charge documents without dates or stamps were accepted despite personal guarantees being in place. The bank allegedly failed to properly review the borrower’s liabilities with other banks and financial institutions, even though Bashundhara Multi Food Products Ltd already had loans elsewhere. Under these circumstances, the accused allegedly approved Tk 575 crore in funded loans and Tk 750 crore in non-funded facilities, amounting to Tk 1,325 crore. Of the funded loans, Tk 575 crore was disbursed, but the amount was not repaid, the summary said. Diversion of funds  Of the disbursed money, Tk 503.125 crore was allegedly diverted outside the approved purposes. The ACC claims the funds were transferred through online clearing into accounts of various Bashundhara Group concerns, used to settle internal bills, adjust CC (hypothecation) and OD loans, withdrawn in cash, and even used to pay salaries and allowances of employees of East West Property Development (Pvt) Ltd for June 2018. Although the loans were sanctioned for expenses such as customs, port and transport charges, C&F charges, office and warehouse costs, marketing, sales, advertising, administrative and general expenses, and LC-related costs, the money was allegedly used for purposes outside those conditions. The alleged acts constitute offences punishable under Sections 420, 409 and 109 of the Penal Code, Section 5(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947, and Sections 4(2) and 4(3) of the Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2012, according to the ACC. The case is being lodged by  Mahmudul Hasan Bhuiyan, Assistant Director of the Anti-Corruption Commission headquarters and a member of a joint inquiry and investigation team. The joint team is led by ACC Deputy Director Jahangir Alam and includes officials from the ACC, the Criminal Investigation Department of the Bangladesh Police , Customs, Excise and VAT Commissionerate (Dhaka South), and the National Board of Revenue. ACC officials said the case filing process is currently underway.  

The holy month of Ramadan will start on Thursday as the crescent moon was sighted in the sky over Bangladesh on Wednesday. The National Moon Sighting Committee took the decision at a meeting held at Islamic Foundation’s Baitul Mukarram office in Dhaka. Muslims are meant to fast from dawn to dusk during the month, a time of restraint and austerity. An overview of Ramadan and how Muslims observe the sacred month