The interim government of Bangladesh has declared former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia as a Very Very Important Person (VVIP). The announcement was made on Tuesday, November 2, through a press release from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing following a special meeting of the Advisory Council at the State Guest House Jamuna. The meeting, presided over by the Chief Adviser, included prayers for Khaleda Zia’s recovery and called upon the nation to pray for her health. The decision took into account her current medical condition, ensuring uninterrupted hospital treatment, and possible arrangements for advanced treatment abroad if necessary. It also emphasized her security, travel convenience, and high national stature. Relevant agencies have been instructed to implement the decision immediately, and her family and political party have been informed of the development.

The Bangladeshi government has postponed a high-level training workshop focused on maintaining law and order ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election. The event, titled “Coordinated Role in Maintaining Law and Order for Fair Elections,” was scheduled to take place on December 3 at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center in Dhaka. A notice issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, signed by Deputy Secretary Md. Shimul Akter, confirmed the cancellation. The workshop was expected to bring together top officials including divisional commissioners, police commissioners, DIGs, judges, district administrators, and election officers. Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed was to attend as chief guest, with Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul as special guest. The sudden postponement has raised uncertainty about coordination efforts for election-time law enforcement preparedness.

Bangladesh’s President has issued the 'Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Remedy Ordinance, 2025', introducing the death penalty and life imprisonment for those found guilty of enforced disappearances. The ordinance, gazetted by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division on December 1, establishes special tribunals at district and divisional levels to handle such cases. It classifies enforced disappearance as a non-bailable and non-compoundable offense. Government officials or law enforcement members who detain, abduct, or conceal a person’s whereabouts, resulting in deprivation of legal protection, will face severe penalties. If the victim dies or remains missing for over five years, the offender may face the death penalty or life imprisonment. The ordinance also prescribes punishment for destroying evidence or maintaining secret detention centers. Senior officers or commanders who order, permit, or fail to prevent such acts will be held equally accountable. Trials may proceed in absentia if the accused is a fugitive, and detainee information may be withheld temporarily for state security reasons.

Education Adviser Professor Dr. C.R. Abrar issued a stern warning to secondary school teachers who have suspended student examinations as part of their ongoing protests. In an interview with the national news agency BSS on December 1, he stated that such actions violate government service regulations and that those responsible will face disciplinary measures. Dr. Abrar criticized the teachers’ demand for promotion to the ninth grade, calling it unjustified since their employment terms placed them in the tenth grade. He emphasized that the ninth grade is reserved for BCS administration cadre officers and that any change would require inter-ministerial coordination. The adviser condemned the teachers for using students as leverage in their movement, labeling it unethical and harmful to students and parents. He reiterated the government’s firm stance that examinations must continue without interruption and instructed all teachers to resume exams immediately or face punishment under civil service rules.

BNP Standing Committee member Dr. A.Z.M. Zahid Hossain has urged the public not to believe rumors regarding the health condition of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, he stated that Khaleda Zia is receiving treatment as per the recommendations of her medical board and that any decision about taking her abroad for further treatment will depend solely on the board’s advice. Dr. Zahid confirmed that foreign specialists are also scheduled to examine her condition. He emphasized that all necessary preparations are in place, but no steps can be taken beyond the board’s guidance. He also acknowledged that the government is cooperating in her treatment and requested prayers from the people for her recovery, expressing hope that she will improve soon.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed deep gratitude to the people of Bangladesh and well-wishers worldwide for their prayers and support for party chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, who remains under treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Rahman described the collective support of the nation as the source of his family’s strength and inspiration. He acknowledged the concern shown by foreign leaders, diplomats, and friends, as well as the affection and prayers of Bangladeshi citizens. Khaleda Zia’s condition is reported to be stable but shows little improvement, according to doctors who continue to monitor her closely. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and other senior leaders visited the hospital late Monday night to discuss her latest condition with the medical team. Rahman called for unity, compassion, and solidarity during this difficult time.

A fact-checking investigation has uncovered more than 100 fake Facebook pages operating under the names of Barrister Zaima Rahman and Dr. Zubaida Rahman, daughter and wife of BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman. The discovery followed heightened online activity after former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s critical illness and hospitalization in Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital. Despite claims of authenticity, BNP’s senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi confirmed on June 5, 2025, that neither Zaima nor Zubaida Rahman has any official Facebook account. The fake pages, some with hundreds of thousands of followers, have been spreading political content and misinformation in favor of the BNP. Page transparency data shows all are managed from Bangladesh, while both women reside in London. Many users have mistakenly engaged with these pages, believing them to be genuine. BNP sources indicated that an official social media account for Zaima Rahman may be launched in the future.

A political debate has intensified in Bangladesh after Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain stated that BNP’s acting chairman Tareque Rahman could be issued a travel pass within a day if he wishes to return home. The comment sparked speculation that Rahman currently lacks a valid Bangladeshi passport. The Election Commission confirmed that Rahman is not yet registered as a voter, though he could become one upon returning. BNP leaders, including Salahuddin Ahmed, downplayed the issue, saying there would be no obstacle regarding a passport or travel pass. Legal adviser Asif Nazrul also clarified that there are no legal restrictions preventing Rahman’s return. The discussion follows Rahman’s recent social media post suggesting that his decision to return is not entirely under his control. Rahman, who has lived in London since 2008 after being released from prison, was expected to return before the upcoming national elections but uncertainty now surrounds his plans.

Security has been strengthened at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia is receiving medical treatment. Police set up barricades at the hospital’s main gate early Monday night, restricting public access and allowing only authorized personnel to enter. Hospital authorities stated that the measures aim to ensure smooth movement for patients and their families, prevent crowding, and enhance the safety of Khaleda Zia. The government recently declared her a 'Very Important Person' (VIP), prompting additional security arrangements. The 80-year-old politician has been suffering from multiple health complications, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, and issues related to her kidneys, lungs, heart, and eyes. She was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23 after developing infections in her heart and lungs, and a team of local and foreign doctors continues to oversee her treatment.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to return to Bangladesh soon, according to the party’s Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed. Speaking to journalists after a committee meeting on Monday, Ahmed said the meeting discussed several issues including the health of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, current political developments, and preparations for upcoming elections. He added that Dr. AZM Zahid would brief the media about Khaleda Zia’s health condition. Earlier, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain stated that there are no legal obstacles preventing Tarique Rahman from returning to the country and that a travel pass could be issued within a day if necessary. Tarique Rahman, who has been living in exile in the United Kingdom for years, remains a central figure in BNP’s leadership and political strategy.

Pakistan is witnessing heightened tension following rumors about the death of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The government and Adiala Jail authorities have not provided any information on his whereabouts, and his family members reportedly have not been allowed to meet him for an extended period. In response, Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), called for protests in Rawalpindi demanding proof of his safety and whereabouts. To prevent demonstrations, the local administration has imposed Section 144, banning all public gatherings from December 1 to 3. Rawalpindi’s Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema stated that the decision was made to maintain public safety, peace, and stability amid growing unrest and speculation surrounding Khan’s condition.

US President Donald Trump has reportedly given Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro an ultimatum to resign immediately and leave the country, according to BBC and Miami Herald reports. The ultimatum was delivered during a phone call on November 21, confirmed by Trump but without revealing details. Trump allegedly offered Maduro and his family safe passage if he stepped down voluntarily. However, Maduro rejected the offer, demanding international legal protection for himself and his allies while reaffirming control over the military. The conversation was reportedly facilitated by Brazil, Qatar, and Turkey. Washington dismissed Maduro’s counterproposals, insisting he must relinquish power soon. Analysts remain uncertain whether Trump’s warning could lead to military action, though sources suggest Maduro’s camp views the threat as mere rhetoric. The diplomatic standoff underscores persistent US-Venezuela tensions and uncertainty over the future of Maduro’s regime.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to return to Bangladesh soon, according to the party’s Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed. Following a regular committee meeting on Monday, December 1, Salahuddin informed reporters that discussions covered various political issues, including preparations for upcoming elections and the health condition of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. He mentioned that Dr. AZM Zahid would brief the media regarding Khaleda Zia’s health. Earlier, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain stated that there are no legal obstacles preventing Tarique Rahman’s return and that a travel pass could be issued within a day if required. Tarique Rahman has been living abroad for several years, and his potential return is being closely watched amid Bangladesh’s evolving political landscape.

National Citizen Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam announced that his party will participate in Bangladesh’s upcoming 13th national parliamentary election as the 'guardian of reforms'. Speaking at a reception in Dhaka for 24 activists recently released from detention in the UAE, Nahid described the election as a turning point for the nation. He urged the government to ensure rehabilitation and employment for the freed expatriates, whom he called 'July warriors'. Nahid emphasized the importance of enabling postal voting for expatriates and accused some political forces of obstructing post-July reform efforts. He warned against campaigns opposing the 'July Charter' and criticized divisive politics based on liberation war and religion. Framing the election as a vote for state reconstruction, Nahid said the NCP would remain uncompromising on core political principles and committed to economic justice, youth employment, democracy, and inclusive governance. He concluded that the NCP is fully prepared to fulfill people's aspirations and ensure the victory of reform.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. In a post on social media platform X on Monday night, Modi conveyed his prayers and best wishes for her speedy recovery. He acknowledged Khaleda Zia’s long service to the people of Bangladesh and assured that India stands ready to extend any possible assistance for her treatment. Khaleda Zia, a former prime minister of Bangladesh, has been suffering from multiple health complications, including liver, kidney, and heart problems. She has been receiving treatment for the past four days in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) of Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Modi’s message comes amid growing concern in Bangladesh over her condition, drawing attention to the humanitarian aspect of bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries.