A banned Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) leader at Rajshahi University, Asadullah Hil Galib, has issued a death threat to Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RUCSU) General Secretary Salahuddin Ammar through a Facebook post on Friday, December 12. The post, made from Galib’s verified account, also received public support from the university BCL president, Mostafizur Rahman Babu. In the post, Galib warned Ammar to increase his security and avoid traveling alone, implying potential harm if ignored. Babu commented under the post, praying that Ammar’s life be spared. When contacted, Ammar said he was aware of the post but not concerned, adding that such threats from political pages were frequent and did not intimidate him. He emphasized his commitment to continue his duties without fear. The incident has sparked renewed debate over campus safety and the influence of banned political groups in public universities, with calls for authorities to investigate and ensure student security.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep sorrow and concern over the deaths and injuries of Bangladeshi peacekeepers in a drone attack on a United Nations base in Abyei, Sudan. According to an official statement released on Saturday night, six Bangladeshi soldiers were killed and eight others injured when armed militants launched a sudden drone strike on the UN peacekeeping mission site. In his message, Yunus described the fallen peacekeepers as national heroes who sacrificed their lives while upholding global peace and stability. He extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. The Chief Adviser said the government has requested the UN to ensure the best possible medical care and support for the wounded personnel. Condemning the attack as a grave crime against international peace and humanity, Yunus urged the United Nations and the global community to strengthen security measures for peacekeepers. The government will continue close coordination with the UN to repatriate the bodies and ensure treatment for the injured.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, stated that his family is deeply concerned about his safety ahead of the upcoming national elections. In a Facebook post on Saturday, December 13, he revealed that his wife, children, and siblings have urged him to remain cautious, though he personally does not feel afraid. His remarks came days after a violent shooting incident that left political observers alarmed. In his post, Alam reflected on completing 16 months in his role and expressed solidarity with the youth who, he said, have taken leadership in shaping the country’s political direction. He criticized what he described as oppressive governance and praised the new generation’s determination to continue their mission for democratic reform. He also commemorated several young activists who lost their lives in recent months, portraying them as symbols of resilience. Alam concluded by expressing confidence in Bangladesh’s future, acknowledging potential domestic and foreign challenges but asserting that the nation’s youth remain fearless and committed to change.

Former BNP lawmaker and decorated freedom fighter Major (Retd.) Akhtaruzzaman has formally joined Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami after being expelled five times from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Once a two-time MP from Kishoreganj-2 and former district BNP president, Akhtaruzzaman announced his decision at Jamaat’s central office in Dhaka, calling the Islamist party 'patriotic' and accusing BNP of inconsistency and falsehoods about the Liberation War. He argued that BNP’s leadership, particularly Tarique Rahman, misrepresented Jamaat’s role in 1971, claiming that the war was fought against Pakistani forces, not Jamaat. Akhtaruzzaman criticized BNP’s shifting alliances and divisive politics, saying the party failed to unite opposition forces after August 5. He also alleged that both BNP and Jamaat have faced state repression under the Awami League government. His defection underscores growing rifts within Bangladesh’s opposition bloc and may complicate future coalition-building efforts ahead of national political realignments.

Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh has called for nationwide prayers for the recovery of Sharif Osman Hadi, an independent candidate from Dhaka-8 and convener of the Inquilab Mancha, who was critically injured in a shooting incident. The appeal was made through a statement issued by the group’s Amir Allama Muhibullah Babunagari and Secretary General Allama Sajedur Rahman on Saturday evening. In the statement, Hefazat leaders described Hadi as a patriotic and courageous voice of the new generation, alleging that he was targeted by what they termed as 'Awami fascist forces'. They urged citizens, mosques, and madrasas across the country to pray for his swift recovery and demanded the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of those responsible for the attack. The organization also accused ruling political elements of attempting to suppress dissent through violence and called on the interim government to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against political terrorism. Hefazat emphasized that ensuring law and order is crucial for holding a fair and peaceful national election.

Six Bangladeshi soldiers serving as UN peacekeepers were killed and eight others injured when militants attacked a United Nations base in Abyei, Sudan, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday, December 13. The attack targeted a Bangladeshi contingent deployed under the UN peacekeeping mission in the volatile region. The Bangladesh Army confirmed the casualties through its verified Facebook page, noting that the situation in Abyei remains unstable and clashes with armed groups are ongoing. Authorities have launched emergency medical and evacuation operations for the wounded personnel. The ISPR added that further details will be shared once more information becomes available. The incident underscores the persistent security challenges faced by UN peacekeepers in conflict-prone areas like Sudan. Bangladesh, one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, has lost several soldiers in similar attacks over the years. The government is expected to review security measures for its deployed forces and coordinate with the UN for enhanced protection.

Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus hosted a reception for the 2025 Begum Rokeya Padak winners at the state guesthouse Jamuna on Saturday evening. The honorees—Rubhana Rakib, Nabila Idris, Kalpana Akter, and Rituporna Chakma—were recognized for their contributions to women’s empowerment, labor rights, human rights, and sports. During the event, the awardees expressed concern over the recent attack on political activist Osman Hadi, urging the government to take firm action and promote political unity ahead of national elections. Dr. Yunus condemned the attack as premeditated and assured that he was monitoring Hadi’s condition and maintaining contact with political parties. Labor rights activist Kalpana Akter thanked the interim government for reforming labor laws and ratifying international conventions, calling the steps historic. Dr. Yunus emphasized labor rights and workplace safety as top priorities. He also discussed institutional challenges with researcher Rubhana Rakib and praised footballer Rituporna Chakma and human rights advocate Nabila Idris for inspiring the nation. The event underscored the government’s focus on women’s empowerment and accountability, signaling continued engagement with civil society and reform initiatives.

Bangladesh’s interim government has announced the immediate launch of 'Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2' to maintain law and order and ensure a peaceful environment ahead of the national elections. The decision was revealed by Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury following a core committee meeting on law and order at the Secretariat on December 13. The adviser stated that the operation aims to suppress extremist and terrorist activities that could disrupt the electoral process. He also mentioned that candidates participating in the election may apply for firearm licenses, while those who had previously deposited licensed weapons with the government will have them returned. The first phase of the operation began on February 8 earlier this year to combat crime and improve public safety. In response to questions about the security of BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman upon his potential return to Bangladesh, the adviser assured that the government has taken comprehensive measures to guarantee his safety. The renewed operation signals the government’s intent to maintain strict control over security dynamics during the election period.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh has issued an urgent warning to citizens planning to travel abroad, cautioning them against fraudulent websites imitating the official MyGov platform. The ministry confirmed that cybercriminals are operating fake domains resembling government sites to issue counterfeit apostille certificates, undermining the credibility of legitimate digital authentication services. According to the ICT Division’s Aspire to Innovate (a2i) program, the MyGov platform (https://www.mygov.bd) has processed around 1.7 million applications in the past 11 months, significantly improving transparency and efficiency in document verification. However, authorities recently identified multiple fake domains, including apostillemygovbd.news and apostille-mygovbd.com, used for scams. Police have already shut down two such fraudulent sites following ministry directives. Officials warned that these scams could jeopardize the acceptance of Bangladeshi public documents abroad and disrupt lawful migration processes. Citizens are urged to use only the official MyGov website and avoid sharing personal data through suspicious links. Law enforcement efforts to identify and prosecute the fraudsters remain ongoing.

The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh has formally requested additional police escorts for the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), four election commissioners, and the senior secretary of the EC Secretariat. The request, sent on December 13 to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner, follows the announcement of the 13th National Parliamentary Election schedule on December 11. The EC cited the need for heightened security during the election period to ensure uninterrupted and safe execution of official duties. According to the letter, the CEC already receives a police escort, but an additional vehicle and security team have been sought for the election period. Similar arrangements have been requested for the commissioners and the EC secretary, covering their residences and offices in Dhaka. In separate communications, the EC instructed police commissioners in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Khulna to assign armed guards for regional and returning officers, and directed the Inspector General of Police to strengthen security at all election offices nationwide. The move reflects growing caution within the EC as the country enters a politically sensitive election phase, aiming to prevent disruptions or threats to election officials’ safety.

The National Imams and Khatibs Association of Bangladesh has submitted a 10-point demand to the government, calling for improved financial, social, and legal support for religious leaders. The demands were announced on Saturday, December 13, during a national seminar at the National Press Club in Dhaka, led by the association’s president, Mufti Abu Taher Al Madani. Key proposals include a unified national pay scale for imams, khatibs, and muezzins, interest-free housing loans, reduced utility bills for mosques, and free healthcare cards for religious leaders and their families. The association also urged the creation of a national imam database, a law to protect imams’ dignity and safety, and the establishment of a central Shura Board for Islamic research and social mediation. The group further called for free Hajj opportunities for poor and elderly imams and legal safeguards against false cases or harassment. Religious and social observers noted that these demands highlight long-standing concerns over the welfare and recognition of mosque leaders in Bangladesh’s community structure.

Fahim Al Trust has announced its willingness to take full responsibility for the medical treatment of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inqilab Mancha. Trust Chairman Fahim Al Chowdhury stated that under the direct guidance of BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman, preparations are being made to ensure Hadi’s advanced treatment, including the option of transferring him abroad via air ambulance if necessary. Chowdhury added that the Trust has already attempted to contact Hadi’s family and is in discussions with the relevant medical board to obtain their opinions and necessary approvals. The family reportedly said they would consider the air transfer if Hadi’s condition required it. He further emphasized that once all permissions and consents are secured, Fahim Al Trust will bear all financial responsibilities for Hadi’s treatment on humanitarian grounds. The Trust also requested prayers for Hadi’s swift recovery and for guidance in making the right decisions.

Bangladesh’s Attorney General Mohammad Asaduzzaman has condemned the recent attack on Sharif Osman Hadi, an independent candidate for Dhaka-8 and convener of the Inquilab Mancha. Speaking to reporters in Jhenaidah’s Shailkupa upazila on Saturday, he described the incident as isolated and assured that those responsible would be brought to justice regardless of their influence or power. Asaduzzaman emphasized that such sporadic incidents should not be interpreted as signs of government failure. He reiterated that both the government and the Election Commission are determined to ensure a peaceful and credible national election. The Attorney General added that the rule of law will prevail and legal processes will proceed independently against the perpetrators. The remarks come amid heightened political tensions and sporadic violence ahead of the upcoming national polls, with authorities pledging to maintain order and public confidence in the electoral process.

India has granted citizenship to 36 Bangladeshi nationals under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), marking one of the largest such approvals since the law’s implementation in March 2024. According to officials, 35 individuals in Odisha and one in Assam received citizenship certificates during a state-organized ceremony. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi described the CAA as a symbol of protection and refuge for persecuted minorities. The Hindu reported that the newly naturalized citizens are all Hindus who migrated from Bangladesh before December 31, 2014. With this, the total number of CAA beneficiaries in Odisha has risen to 51, while around 1,100 applications remain under review. In Assam, a 40-year-old Bangladeshi woman became the first to gain citizenship under the Act after marrying an Indian citizen and residing in India for over seven years. The move underscores India’s gradual rollout of the CAA amid ongoing political debate and regional sensitivities, particularly in border states. Authorities expect further approvals as pending applications are processed in the coming months.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has issued an apology for comments he made during a meeting in Dhaka’s Naya Paltan area. In a statement released to the media on Saturday night, Rizvi acknowledged that his earlier remarks were based on misinformation circulating on social media. He clarified that two viral posts — one showing a fabricated news clip with the RTV logo and another depicting a Dhaka University student leader having tea with a suspect in an attack — were both AI-generated and baseless. Rizvi admitted that he had not fact-checked the content before referencing it in his speech earlier in the day. The incident highlights growing concerns about AI-generated misinformation influencing political discourse in Bangladesh. Analysts note that this case underscores the urgent need for political figures and the public to verify digital content before sharing or commenting on it.