BNP leader Nasir Uddin Ahmed Asim has criticized proposals for Proportional Representation (PR)-based elections, calling the idea absurd and dangerous for democracy. “Under PR, you could vote in Sandwip, but your MP would come from the Maldives—such thinking is absurd and unfit for Bangladesh’s political culture,” he remarked. He argued that while reforms are necessary, many changes require constitutional amendments that must go through Parliament. Asim accused the ruling Awami League of ignoring the constitution while trying to restore authoritarian rule. He further alleged that all major infrastructure progress took place under Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia, while the current government has only plundered national wealth and repressed citizens over the past 15 years.

Bangladesh continues to face significant barriers to foreign investment despite efforts to improve electricity reliability. A U.S. State Department report highlights unfair taxes on foreign firms, corruption, red tape, and weak infrastructure as key challenges. The interim government has taken early steps but lacks effective action on labor rights and intellectual property enforcement. Foreign reserves dropped from USD 48 billion in 2021 to under USD 20 billion in 2024, worsened by banking scandals and loan defaults. Reforms are underway to stabilize the sector.

BNP Organizing Secretary Shama Obaid has declared that extortionists and those engaged in unethical practices have no place in the party. Speaking during a constituency visit in Saltha, she said, “If anyone in BNP, even from my own team, is involved in wrongdoing, hand them over to the police. We will not protect them.” She emphasized the need to root out corruption, extortion, and political exploitation to ensure genuine development. During visits to 20 Durga Puja mandaps, Shama stressed BNP’s commitment to equal treatment of all religious communities. She warned that fascist elements might try to disrupt the festivities but assured that BNP activists would guard temples around the clock to maintain peace.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has alleged that both local and international conspiracies are actively working against the Zia family and nationalist forces in Bangladesh. Speaking at a party event, Rizvi warned that efforts are underway to destabilize communal harmony and create unrest across the country. He urged all pro-democracy parties and citizens to remain vigilant. Criticizing the ruling establishment, he claimed that authorities are deliberately delaying elections and attempting to derail democracy. Rizvi further warned that Bangladesh’s youth, long deprived of their voting rights, would not forgive any attempt to manipulate elections. He also called on BUET students and intellectuals to contribute their knowledge and ideas to BNP’s vision for national reconstruction.

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is set to begin trial operations this December, confirmed Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed. He noted that Bangladesh had earlier requested Russia to launch the project in November, but Moscow indicated a December start. The plant has already received its fuel, and a team from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has provided recommendations, which are currently being implemented. Final approval from the IAEA is pending. Electricity pricing per unit has not yet been finalized. Once operational, the two Russian-built VVER-1200 reactors will add 2,400 MW of power to Bangladesh’s national grid, marking a milestone in the country’s energy sector.

Three new Hajj packages under private management for the upcoming year have been announced, with notable price hikes across all categories. According to Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) Secretary General Farid Ahmed Mazumder, the Special Hajj Package has been raised by Tk 51,000 to Tk 7.5 lakh. The General Package now costs Tk 5.5 lakh, an increase of Tk 27,000, while the Economy Package stands at Tk 5.1 lakh. Unlike government-managed Hajj programs where meal expenses remain separate, all private packages include costs for food and Qurbani, promising improved services for pilgrims.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed former U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict. In a statement, Modi said Trump’s proposal offers a “viable path toward long-term peace, security, and development” for both Israelis and Palestinians, as well as the broader West Asian region. He expressed hope that all stakeholders would unite behind Trump’s initiative to end the conflict and ensure lasting peace.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has demanded the imprisonment of former U.S. President Donald Trump for directly supporting what he termed the ongoing “genocide” in Gaza. “Trump deserves jail if he continues backing this genocide,” Petro declared, citing the Rome Statute, which allows for the arrest of war criminals anywhere in the world. He suggested even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could be arrested from the U.S. under international law and questioned why Washington had not acted. Petro also announced Colombia’s decision to cancel its free trade agreement with Israel, while criticizing the U.S. for disregarding international law. Earlier, he rejected the U.S. decision to revoke his visa over his criticism of Israeli actions.

Economic Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed announced that part of Bangladesh’s smuggled funds could be repatriated by February, with the next elected government expected to continue the process. He acknowledged that money laundering cases require international cooperation and time, as launderers are often highly skilled in evasion. Progress has been made, with several assets already seized and details of overseas accounts and passports obtained. Discussions are ongoing with legal firms abroad, and a clearer picture of recoverable amounts will emerge soon. Ahmed also confirmed government approval for importing rice from Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam amid concerns over potential supply disruptions, even though domestic reserves are adequate. Fertilizer prices have dropped slightly, while rice prices have recently declined. However, he admitted that overall market management has not been entirely successful.

The Taliban government in Afghanistan announced a nationwide internet shutdown aimed at stopping what it called “immoral activities.” By Monday night, several networks had gone offline, affecting telephone services and creating a complete internet blackout. At least eight flights were canceled at Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport, while banking and business operations are expected to be severely disrupted. Afghans abroad are unable to contact their families, while local media outlets report major disruptions to their operations. International news agencies AP and AFP also said they were unable to reach their Kabul bureaus.

BNP leader Koyser Kamal accused Jamaat-e-Islami of attempting to sabotage upcoming elections under the pretext of demanding proportional representation (PR). “Thousands have sacrificed their lives for democracy, not PR. Those demanding PR don’t even fully understand it,” Kamal said. He argued that citizens, deprived of voting rights for the past 17 years, are now eager to cast ballots. He urged Jamaat to present an electoral manifesto if they truly believe in democracy, instead of misleading the public with religious rhetoric. Kamal alleged Jamaat’s PR demand is part of a new conspiracy to prevent the establishment of a democratic environment.

NTMC Director General Major General Abdul Qayum Molla said the volume of rumors surrounding Durga Puja celebrations is significantly lower this year compared to last. He said attempts—both domestic and foreign—are being made to destabilize the country, but fact-checking mechanisms are actively countering misinformation. All Puja venues have been brought under security, while efforts are underway to curb rumor-spreading on Facebook and YouTube. Molla confirmed that social media activity is being closely monitored ahead of the national elections. “This year, rumor campaigns around Durga Puja have failed to gain traction. Everyone knows who wants to destabilize the country,” he said.

Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury accused “fascist elements” of attempting to create unrest in Khagrachhari to disrupt the Hindu community’s Durga Puja celebrations. He warned of strict action against the perpetrators but said the situation is currently under control. Section 144 remains in effect for the third consecutive day, with checkpoints in place at entry and exit points of the district. While a student blockade has been relaxed, long-distance and local transport services remain suspended.

NCP leader Sarjis Alam asserted that the party has legally secured its right to the lotus election symbol. “If needed, NCP will go to the streets or the courts to claim its rightful symbol,” he declared. Alam emphasized the party’s demand for visible justice and reforms based on the July Charter. He also accused Indian media of spreading propaganda to destabilize Bangladesh, claiming attempts were made to grab temple lands through forged documents in the past, often exploiting minority communities.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus clarified that the Awami League has not been banned, nor has its registration been suspended—only its political activities have been halted temporarily. “Awami League remains a valid party. Their activities could be reinstated at any time,” Yunus said. However, he stressed that the suspension prevents them from engaging in political activities for now. On whether the party could contest elections, Yunus said the Election Commission must provide clarification, as it is responsible for conducting polls. He further stated that while Awami League has supporters, their claim of having “millions” is exaggerated. Supporters would still be able to vote, but without the party symbol. He accused Awami League of violence and impunity, alleging the party has consistently shifted blame for its actions onto others.