After initially walking out of the National Unity Commission meeting, BNP rejoined the session later. Commenting on this, Salahuddin Ahmed said, “We have agreed on the formation of an independent Election Commission. However, there is no need for differing opinions regarding appointments to constitutionally and legally governed positions, as this could weaken the executive branch.”

He emphasized that the executive branch is accountable not only to Parliament but also to the people. “If there is only responsibility and accountability without authority, it is insufficient for effective governance. To meet the expectations of the public, the executive branch must be strong, not weak.”

Regarding ongoing dialogues, Salahuddin added that their participation is driven by constructive goals. “However, where fundamental disagreements exist, refraining from participation or expressing dissent is also a part of democratic discourse.”

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has expressed deep anguish over reports of extortion by movement coordinators. “I am heartbroken by this news. Is this what we expected just one year after the mass uprising?” he said.

Fakhrul emphasized that the nation looks to its youth for leadership, but added with concern, “I can’t confidently say we’re rebuilding the country anew. Instead, conditions are being created that may once again open the door for fascists to take control.”

He also criticized the government's lack of progress on reforms and the absence of accountability for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina: “It’s been a year, and we’ve seen no sign of justice for Hasina’s actions.” Despite pressure tactics, Fakhrul asserted that the people of Bangladesh know how to fight.

He reminded everyone that 79 Jubo Dal and 142 Chhatra Dal members lost their lives during the movement, saying, “This uprising belongs to the people.”

After rejoining the National Consensus Commission discussions, BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed reaffirmed the party’s commitment to preventing any return to autocracy or fascism. He warned that weakening the executive could destabilize governance but welcomed the adoption of BNP's proposal to cap the prime minister’s tenure at 10 years. He also advocated for an independent search committee for the Election Commission, comprising representatives from the government, opposition, and judiciary. Professor Dr. Ali Riaz expressed optimism that the consensus process could be completed within three days.

Nahid Islam, convenor of the National Consensus Party (NCP), has stated that the proposed upper house of Parliament must be constituted based on vote proportions rather than seat allocations. During a meeting with families of those killed in the July uprising in Jamalpur, Nahid emphasized that this fundamental reform must be included in the upcoming July Charter. "We hope to finalize the Charter by August 5 through an all-party consensus," she added. Nahid also criticized the lack of neutrality in the administration and called for a level playing field before the next elections.

Syria is set to hold its first parliamentary elections under the new transitional government between September 15 and 20. According to Mohammad Taha Al-Ahmad, Chair of the country’s High Election Commission, one-third of the 210 parliamentary seats will be appointed directly by interim President Ahmed Al-Shara, with the remainder filled through direct elections. This comes amid continued unrest and instability across the war-torn nation, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) staged a walkout from a National Consensus Commission meeting discussing reforms in key institutions, including the Public Service Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Auditor General’s office, and the Ombudsman. Although BNP boycotted this segment, party representatives are expected to participate in later discussions regarding women’s representation in Parliament. Professor Ali Riaz, vice-chair of the commission, noted that a draft of the "July Charter" would be shared with political parties within the day, though key constitutional reforms remain unresolved.

Jonayed Saki, Chief Coordinator of the Ganosamhati Andolon, has accused the ruling Awami League of attempting to install a fascist regime in Bangladesh through the 15th constitutional amendment.

Speaking at a public event, Saki said, “If we truly want to honor the martyrs who gave their lives, we must build a new political, economic, and cultural framework that reflects the spirit of people’s uprisings.”

He criticized the current system, saying, “We cannot build a new political structure while maintaining an economy driven by corruption, plunder, and monopolization—and a culture of division.”

Saki emphasized the need for a political party that genuinely represents the masses and protects their interests. “The blood spilled in historic uprisings points the way to a new journey for a people’s Bangladesh,” he said, also criticizing the government for failing to take responsibility for the families of those killed or injured in protests.

BNP leader Aminul Haque has warned against extortion being carried out under the BNP name, allegedly by groups formerly affiliated with the Awami League. Speaking to business owners, he urged them not to pay any extortion money and promised strict action against imposters. Haque blamed the government's mismanagement and corruption for the country’s economic collapse. “If we come to power, reviving the economy will be a top priority,” he said. He also promised permanent marketplaces for small businesses if BNP is elected, and reiterated the party's commitment to building a humane and inclusive Bangladesh.

BNP leader Major (Retd.) Hafizuddin Ahmed has dismissed the Nationalist Citizen Party (NCP) as too young to comment on BNP's senior leadership. “They are the age of our sons and grandsons,” he said, adding that BNP holds no grudge against any political group. “We have fought for democracy, a cause for which Shaheed Abu Sayeed sacrificed his life.” Hafiz criticized smaller parties for delivering "big speeches" without real public support and accused some of quickly succumbing to corruption. He emphasized that Chief Advisor is in favor of holding elections, though some advisors are allegedly misleading him. Urging party unity, Hafiz affirmed, “A united BNP will form the next government.”

Nahid Islam, convener of the Nationalist Citizen Party (NCP), has sharply criticized the Awami League and addressed a stern warning to India. Speaking in Sherpur, he stated, “If you push anyone into Bangladesh, make it Sheikh Hasina and the Awami terrorists.” He further added that government officials who support the Awami League and give shelter to political violence must also face justice.
At the event, Sarjis Alam said, “We will no longer tolerate anyone unconditionally in Bangladesh. If someone does 95 things right and 5 wrong, we will still hold them accountable.”
Samantha Sharmin demanded transparency about the Milestone incident, questioning the involvement of corporate entities or private forces.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for strong political will to implement the Padma Barrage and the proposed Second Padma Bridge, projects vital for the livelihood of nearly 80 million people.

Despite seven feasibility studies, no final decision has been made yet, which Fakhrul called "deeply unfortunate." He stressed that the Farakka Barrage is not a localized issue but one affecting the entire southern region. Fakhrul reiterated that any future government must prioritize these projects.

He also affirmed the BNP’s commitment to building the Second Padma Bridge and said, “The people of this country want real progress and a true democratic system.”

BNP leader Amir Khasru stated that individuals or groups afraid of elections have no place in politics and should instead operate as pressure groups or NGOs.

"You can’t be in politics, avoid elections, and simultaneously obstruct democratic processes," he said. Khasru warned that countries delaying elections often experience civil unrest and division, while those returning to democracy through timely elections prosper socially and economically.

He emphasized the need for tolerance and mutual respect in politics and predicted that those ignoring the psychological shift among the people after the fall of the authoritarian regime led by Sheikh Hasina have no future in politics.

The Scottish National Party (SNP) plans to introduce a "Palestine Recognition Bill" in the UK Parliament after the summer recess, pressuring Prime Minister Keir Starmer to formally recognize Palestine. SNP leader Stephen Flynn warned that if Starmer doesn’t shift his stance, they will push the bill to a vote. The move comes amid rising calls from over 220 MPs, including many from Labour, following France’s recent commitment to recognize Palestine. The SNP holds only nine seats but aims to spark significant political debate.

Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Towhid Hossain has departed for the United States to attend a high-level UN conference in New York on July 28–29, focused on the peaceful resolution of the Palestine crisis and advancing the two-state solution. Co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, the summit follows a UN resolution adopted in December 2024. Global foreign ministers and UN officials will join the event. Bangladesh, a long-time supporter of Palestine, was among the first to recognize its independence in 1988.

Industry Advisor Adilur Rahman has called for urgent reforms in Bangladesh's judicial and bureaucratic systems, emphasizing the importance of youth participation. Speaking at a conference on the July Revolution at Dhaka University, he criticized remnants of the former Awami League regime for ongoing instability. He asserted that justice for the martyrs of the July Movement is inevitable and condemned past incidents of enforced disappearances, mass arrests, and killings. Rahman urged young people to remain vocal and active in ensuring justice and institutional accountability.