Category: Bangladesh

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is set to return home today from Evercare Hospital after a six-day stay. She was admitted on September 12 for urgent medical tests. Sayrul Kabir Khan, from her media wing, announced that she will leave the hospital between 5:30pm and 6:00pm. The former prime minister’s health condition and the results of her medical tests have not been disclosed in this update.READ FULL

The World Bank has pledged $3 billion to support Bangladesh’s reform agenda, including $2 billion in fresh loans and $1 billion repurposed from existing programs. The commitment was made during a meeting between a WB mission and Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser to the interim government. Yunus emphasized the need for reforms and recovery of siphoned funds. The WB agreed to provide technical support and assist with various reforms, including financial sector improvements and data transparency.READ FULL

Former Supreme Court judge AHM Shamsuddin Chowdhury Manik was granted bail in a case related to his attempted illegal entry into India. He was arrested by BGB on August 23 at the Dona border. Despite receiving bail in this case, the Sylhet court ordered him to remain in jail due to several other pending cases against him. The bail was granted by Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Anjan Kanti Das.READ FULL

US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma stressed the importance of supporting a democratic transition in Bangladesh. Speaking at the Hudson Institute, he said the timing of elections and interim government duration are for Bangladeshis to decide. Verma highlighted a recent US diplomatic visit to Bangladesh, during which USAID announced $202.15 million in assistance to support a peaceful democratic process.READ FULL

Alamgir Sheikh, a 34-year-old Bangladeshi tourist, was detained by Indian authorities and had his visa canceled due to anti-India posts on social media. Sheikh, from Lalmonirhat, made controversial statements during a live broadcast from the Taj Mahal, calling for the division of India and return of certain states to Bangladesh. He was identified and detained at the Changrabandha immigration checkpoint on Sunday. After interrogation, Indian officials canceled his visa and handed him over to Bangladeshi immigration police at Burimari land port.READ FULL

Bangladesh and India have agreed to resurvey and return about 200 acres of land to Bangladesh, which was lost due to erosion along the Padma River in Kushtia’s Daulatpur border. The decision was made during a meeting between Border Guard Bangladesh and India’s Border Security Force. The land dispute arose from river course changes and natural disasters affecting border pillars. Officials also discussed preventing border killings and drug trafficking. The resurvey and official boundary correction are expected in October.READ FULL

Four individuals, including prominent journalists Mozammel Babu and Shyamal Dutta, were detained while allegedly attempting to enter India illegally through the Dhobaura border in Mymensingh. Local residents captured the group, which also included Ekattor TV senior reporter Mahbubur Rahman and a driver, around 6:00 AM and alerted police. Babu is the managing director of Ekattor TV, while Dutta is the former general secretary of Jatiya Press Club. The detainees are currently in police custody.READ FULL

In an interview with The Daily Star, Bangladeshi-American political scientist Ali Riaz discusses the recent uprising in Bangladesh that toppled the Awami League regime. He calls it a mass uprising, not a revolution. Riaz advocates for rewriting the constitution to prevent autocracy and suggests three methods for this process. He also comments on the interim government’s challenges, the need for judicial reform, and tensions in India-Bangladesh relations. Riaz dismisses claims that Bangladesh is entering the US’s circle, emphasizing the importance of equitable foreign relations based on national interests.READ FULL

The commissioning of Bangladesh’s $12.65 billion Rooppur nuclear power plant faces further uncertainty due to delays in constructing the transmission line across the Padma and Jamuna rivers. The Indian contractor, Transrail Lighting, has left the site following recent political unrest, halting the $524 million project. Only 38% of the Padma crossing and less than 25% of the Jamuna crossing have been completed. Most of the 150 foreign workers have not returned, making it difficult to provide a timeline for completion. This delay affects the plant’s scheduled launch in December.READ FULL

USAID has agreed to provide a $202.25 million grant to Bangladesh for good governance, social, human and economic opportunity, and resilience. This is part of the 6th amendment to the Development Objective Grant Agreement (DOAG), signed in Dhaka. The total USAID commitment under the 2021-2026 DOAG is $954 million, with $425 million already provided. The USA, a long-standing development partner of Bangladesh since 1972, has contributed over $8 billion to various sectors including democracy, food security, health, education, and climate change.READ FULL

Malaysian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Haznah Md Hashim announced Malaysia’s support for Bangladesh’s bid to join ASEAN during a lecture at BIISS in Dhaka. She emphasized Malaysia’s friendship with Bangladesh and their willingness to back the proposal. While noting that all 10 ASEAN countries have equal status and must agree, Hashim expressed optimism about Bangladesh’s future inclusion in the regional bloc. She reassured Bangladesh of Malaysia’s open support and friendship since Bangladesh’s establishment.READ FULL

At least 27 fishermen from Hatia, Noakhali, remain missing after a trawler sank in the Bay of Bengal last Friday. Six trawlers haven’t returned, and 11 trawler sinking incidents have been reported. Nearly 100 fishermen have been rescued by other trawlers. The Upazila Fisheries Officer reported multiple trawler sinkings over two days, with most crew members either swimming ashore or being rescued. One fisherman from Nijhum Island and four from Amatli dock are still missing. The Coast Guard is working on rescue operations.READ FULL

Former Public Administration Minister Farhad Hossain was arrested by Bangladesh’s Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in Dhaka on Saturday night. He faces charges in three cases: one for a shooting incident during anti-government protests, and two related to recent student movements. The arrest took place in the Eskaton area around 11pm following a tip-off. After his arrest, Farhad was handed over to the police for further legal proceedings.READ FULL

Tragedy struck in Bangladesh’s Noakhali district as ten fishing trawlers sank in the Meghna River due to severe weather. While 18 fishermen were rescued, eight remain missing along with five trawlers. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon and evening near Hatiya island. Local police reported that the trawlers encountered stormy conditions while returning from deep-sea fishing. One fisherman is hospitalized with serious injuries. The search continues for the missing, with fears the number could rise.READ FULL

The Bangladesh Embassy in Riyadh has launched e-passport services for Bangladeshi expatriates in Saudi Arabia. The inauguration ceremony, presided over by Charge d’Affaires SM Rakibullah, was attended by officials, expatriates, and media representatives. Major Sumiriar Sadeekin, Assistant Project Director, provided information on the application process. The technical team addressed questions from attendees. This new service is expected to streamline the passport issuance process and improve travel efficiency for Bangladeshi nationals in Saudi Arabia.READ FULL

Hindu community leaders in Chattogram, Bangladesh, rallied to demand a speedy trial tribunal for minority persecution cases and the establishment of a Minority Affairs Ministry. Their eight-point demands include compensation for victims, enactment of a Minority Protection Law, and reserved seats for minorities. They also called for upgrading religious welfare trusts to foundations, implementing the Vested Property Return Act, and allocating prayer spaces in educational institutions. The Paris-based JMBF expressed alarm over recent attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh.READ FULL

Japan has pledged $1 million in aid for flood-affected regions in Bangladesh, to be distributed through UNHCR and UNICEF. Japanese Ambassador Iwama Kiminori announced this on Facebook, expressing sympathy for flood victims. Previously, Japan provided $2 million through NGOs and local Japanese associations donated Tk200,000 to the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society. Kiminori reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh during natural disasters and its recovery, highlighting the strategic partnership between the two countries.READ FULL

Barapukuria Thermal Power Plant in Dinajpur has partially resumed operations after a three-day shutdown. Unit 1, with a 125 MW capacity, restarted on Thursday evening, supplying 60-65 MW to the national grid. Chief Engineer Abu Bakr Siddique expects Unit 3 to restart soon, pending parts from the Chinese contractor. Unit 2 remains non-functional. The resumption has reduced load shedding in northern districts, benefiting agriculture and industries. This coal-based plant, Bangladesh’s first, uses coal from the adjacent Barapukuria mine to generate electricity.READ FULL

Russian world traveler Iurii Artemovich Volkov shared his global adventures at an event organized by the Russian House in Dhaka. Volkov, a member of various Russian organizations, has participated in over 65 expeditions and three world tours, covering 145 countries. He discussed his “All the Elements” project, which involved displaying the Russian flag at iconic locations worldwide. Volkov also shared experiences from his travels and answered questions about Russia. The event was held in a warm, friendly atmosphere.READ FULL

A landslide at Ukhiya’s Hakimpur Camp-14 in Cox’s Bazar claimed the lives of three members of a Rohingya family early Friday morning. The victims were identified as Abdul Rahim, Abdul Hafiz, and Abdul Wahed from E-2 Block. Shamsud Doza Nayan from the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission Office confirmed the incident. Additional District Magistrate Ataul Gani Osmani reported that a total of six people, including three Bangladeshis and three Rohingyas, have died due to landslides in the district.READ FULL

The interim government of Bangladesh is working to resolve the power outage issue within the next two to three weeks, according to Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan. The matter was discussed in an advisory council meeting chaired by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus. Rizwana also mentioned that elections would be held after necessary reforms, with six commissions formed to reform key sectors expected to submit reports within three months. The government plans to seek political consensus through dialogue before proceeding with elections.READ FULL

DHAKA, Sept 12, 2024 (BSS) – Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus will exchange views with the businessmen this afternoon.The view-exchange meeting will begin at Hotel Intercontinental in the capital at 3 pm today, the chief adviser’s press wing said.READ FULL

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala praised Bangladesh for decentralizing supply chains through tech parks. She highlighted new opportunities for developing economies in global supply chain diversification, digitalization, and de-carbonization efforts. Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the importance of improving local conditions to attract FDI and maximize its benefits. She also confirmed that countries like Bangladesh and Nepal will continue to receive trade benefits for some time after graduating from LDC status in 2026, as agreed at the recent WTO Ministerial Conference.READ FULL

The Ministry of Environment has revised entry fees for the National Botanical Garden in Mirpur, Bangladesh. Adult entry fee is reduced from Tk 100 to Tk 30, while children’s fees are also restructured. Group rates for students and fees for foreign tourists have been set. An annual entry card for morning walkers is introduced at Tk 500. The changes, effective immediately, aim to improve public accessibility while covering operational costs. This revision follows public feedback on previous fee adjustments.READ FULL

Doctors and staff at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital went on strike after relatives of a deceased patient allegedly assaulted a doctor, claiming wrong treatment. The patient, Aziz, died after receiving a painkiller injection. Hospital services were halted, with staff demanding the arrest of the attackers within 24 hours. CCTV footage identified two attackers. The hospital superintendent stated that despite the patient’s critical condition and lack of attendants, doctors provided their best care. The strike continues, potentially affecting patient care.READ FULL

Rajshahi Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (RWASA) is implementing a project to provide drinkable water to Rajshahi city and nearby areas by 2027. The project aims to supply 20 crore liters of purified water daily. RWASA Managing Director Zakir Hossain emphasized integrity management and good governance in water supply. The treatment plant, located near the Padma River, will include extensive pipeline construction and water treatment facilities. READ FULL

Labor unrest in Bangladesh’s garment industry has led to the closure of 114 factories in Ashulia and Gazipur industrial areas, according to the BGMEA. Workers are demanding overdue wages, increased benefits, and equal employment opportunities. At least 54 factories were closed on a “no work, no pay” basis. The situation remains tense, with heavy police and army presence in some areas. Factory owners decided to shut down operations after incidents of vandalism. The closures could further fuel workers’ frustration as they won’t be paid during this period.READ FULL

Starting October 1, the use of polythene and polypropylene shopping bags will be banned in all superstores across Bangladesh. Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan announced the ban, which aims to promote eco-friendly alternatives like jute and cloth bags. The government will launch a nationwide media campaign on September 15 to raise public awareness, and the Ministry of Textiles and Jute will meet with superstore operators to ensure a steady supply of alternative bags. A fair showcasing sustainable bags will also be organized by September 30.READ FULL

For the first time, a shipment of 231,000 chicken eggs was imported from India through the Benapole land port in Bangladesh. The import aims to address the rising prices of eggs in the domestic market. The consignment, valued at $11,272, was imported by a Dhaka-based company at a price of $0.56 per dozen eggs. Customs authorities have confirmed the eggs are fit for consumption and are working to expedite the release of the shipment after collecting the government revenue.READ FULL

Speakers at a webinar organized by Oxfam highlighted the urgent need for a unified approach to address the severe flooding crisis in Bangladesh. The UK’s Bangladeshi diaspora was urged to contribute financially and share skills and resources to support relief efforts. With over 2 million diaspora members globally, their collective action can have a significant impact in supporting affected communities. Oxfam has been delivering aid, but the scale of recovery required is immense, underscoring the vital role the diaspora can play.READ FULL

One more dengue death was reported in Bangladesh in the last 24 hours, taking the total fatalities to 97 this year. 615 more patients were hospitalized with dengue-like symptoms. 175 patients were admitted in Dhaka North and 137 in Dhaka South. Currently, 1,642 dengue patients are under treatment nationwide. Bangladesh has recorded 16,285 dengue cases since January 1, 2024. Last year saw a record 1,705 dengue deaths and over 321,000 cases.READ FULL

Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman met with President Mohammed Shahabuddin at Bangabhaban. The Army Chief briefed the President on the army’s activities, including maintaining law and order nationwide. President Shahabuddin, as supreme commander of the armed forces, praised the army’s role in ensuring public security and providing relief during recent floods in the country’s north and south-eastern regions. Bangabhaban secretaries were present at the meeting. READ FULL

The Bangladesh government has appointed new deputy commissioners (DCs) to 25 districts. The Ministry of Public Administration issued a gazette notification for these appointments. The new DCs, all from the BCS (admin) cadre, will serve as both Deputy Commissioners and District Magistrates. The appointees come from various government departments and ministries, including the Cabinet Division, Economic Relations Division, and several other ministries and agencies. READ FULL

Nearly 30 garment factories in Ashulia, Bangladesh, were forced to close due to worker protests. Despite most factories reopening following a BGMEA decision, workers at these 30 facilities walked out, citing unresolved demands. The Jirabo-Bishmail road was briefly blocked by protesters. Six people were detained for questioning on suspicion of instigating unrest. Army, police, and BGB personnel were deployed to maintain order. Workers’ demands include improved working conditions, balanced gender recruitment, and increased maternity leave.READ FULL

Former Bangladesh Army Chief General Moeen U Ahmed has shared his account of the 2009 BDR mutiny in a YouTube video. He describes the events of February 25-26, including his communications with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and BDR chief Maj Gen Shakil Ahmed. Moeen claims he ordered troops to prepare for an operation without waiting for instructions. He also mentions the government’s negotiations with mutineers and the army’s role in ending the 33-hour siege, which resulted in 57 army officers’ deaths.READ FULL

Bangladesh’s new International Crimes Tribunal Chief Prosecutor, Md Tajul Islam, announced plans to seek Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India. He aims to try the former prime minister for alleged mass killings during student protests in July and August. The prosecutor intends to file for arrest warrants against Hasina and other accused once the tribunal resumes. The government may consider amending the ICT Act for new cases. The tribunal and investigation team will be reconstituted following the interim government’s formation.READ FULL