As Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliamentary Election approaches, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced its preliminary list of 236 candidates, sparking wide discussion for its emphasis on education and professional background. Among 223 candidates whose educational information was verified, 85% hold higher education degrees. The list includes a significant number of doctors, engineers, and foreign-educated individuals, with about 14% having studied abroad. At least two candidates are Ivy League alumni: former education minister and economist Dr. Osman Farruk, who earned a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Cornell University, and Barrister Muhammad Naushad Zamir, who completed an LLM at Harvard Law School after an MSc in Taxation from Oxford University. Around 40% of the nominees studied at the University of Dhaka or its affiliated colleges. The BNP’s selection strategy appears focused on showcasing candidates with strong academic and professional credentials, reflecting a shift toward technocratic and globally educated leadership within the party.

Bangladesh Television (BTV) will broadcast live the verdict of the International Crimes Tribunal-1 in the case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. The tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumdar with two other judges, set the verdict date earlier on November 13. The prosecution has sought the death penalty for Hasina and Kamal on five charges of crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the July–August 2024 mass uprising. Defense lawyers have pleaded for acquittal, claiming innocence. Abdullah Al-Mamun, who turned state witness, has also sought acquittal through his counsel. A total of 54 witnesses testified, including relatives of victims and prominent figures such as Nahid Islam and Dr Mahmudur Rahman. The case is among several being tried by two international tribunals investigating alleged atrocities during the 2024 uprising.

National Citizens Party (NCP) senior joint convener Samanta Sharmin has claimed that Bangladesh’s economy and governance have transformed into a 'mafia system' and 'gangster rule' over the past 53 years. Speaking at an event organized by the National Agriculturists Alliance of Bangladesh in Dhaka, she alleged that syndicates and monopolies dominate key sectors, creating an economic stalemate. Sharmin criticized the continued use of colonial-era laws, arguing that they were designed to suppress citizens and are incompatible with an independent nation. She accused past political parties of fostering dominance, extortion, and violence, which have harmed all sectors. Emphasizing a new political vision, she said the NCP aims to build a system where even qualified farmers can participate in lawmaking, promoting inclusive and democratic governance rooted in national values.

At least 120 people, mostly police officers, were injured during a Gen-Z organized protest in Mexico City against President Claudia Sheinbaum’s government. The demonstration, which began peacefully, turned violent after a group of participants clashed with police. The protest was reportedly organized through social media to denounce drug-related violence and Sheinbaum’s security policies. Authorities confirmed that around 100 police officers were injured, with 40 requiring hospital treatment, while 20 protesters were also hurt. Security chief Pablo Vázquez stated that 20 people were arrested for crimes including robbery and assault. The unrest comes as Sheinbaum, who took office in October 2024 with strong popularity ratings, faces growing criticism over her handling of security amid a series of high-profile murders. A journalist was also reportedly attacked during the clashes.

Suspended Awami League activists blocked the Dhaka-Barishal highway in Gopalpur area of Dasar upazila, Madaripur, early Sunday by placing tree trunks across several points. The protest was organized to press for the implementation of a shutdown program. Demonstrators also burned tires during the blockade, causing severe traffic congestion and suffering for passengers. Police and fire service personnel promptly began clearing the road and working to prevent further sabotage. According to local fire service officer Khokon Jamadar, efforts to remove the tree trunks from the highway started at dawn with police assistance and continued throughout the morning to restore normal traffic flow.

The Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) is continuing its series of dialogues with registered political parties ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. On Sunday, November 16, the EC met with 12 parties including Gano Forum, Islami Oikya Jote, and Bangladesh Supreme Party between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The discussions focused on ensuring a free, fair, and credible election process. On Monday, November 17, the EC will hold another round of talks with 12 additional parties, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party), and Bangladesh Muslim League. The dialogues are part of Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin’s initiative to engage all stakeholders in preparation for the polls. The EC has over 50 registered political parties and is inviting them in phases to share views and recommendations for improving electoral transparency and participation.

In Sylhet-4 constituency (Gowainghat–Companiganj–Jaintapur), two BNP leaders from the influential Chowdhury family staged separate demonstrations on Saturday, signaling an intensifying internal contest for party nomination ahead of the upcoming national election. Former Sylhet City mayor and BNP Chairperson’s adviser Ariful Haque Chowdhury held a meeting at the Gowainghat Upazila auditorium, pledging rapid development if elected. Later, he led a rally and conducted public outreach in nearby areas. Meanwhile, another faction of the local BNP organized a protest march in the evening, demanding that Abdul Hakim Chowdhury be nominated as a local candidate. Hakim argued that only a strong local contender could effectively challenge the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate, Zainal Abedin, who has been active in the area. Locals described the day’s events as a “counter show of strength,” reflecting growing tension and competition within the BNP camp in Sylhet-4.

At a discussion meeting in Jessore, Daily Amar Desh editor Dr. Mahmudur Rahman declared that no political party or individual would be able to come to or remain in power in Bangladesh by acting as an agent of India. Speaking as the chief discussant at an event organized by Prachyasangha Jessore, he emphasized that there would be no compromise on national sovereignty and urged citizens and political parties to unite against any form of Indian influence. Rahman criticized both the government and opposition parties for alleged election manipulation and called for a fair and credible election to restore democracy. He also highlighted the rise of the 'July Generation' as a new political force and stressed the importance of cultural struggle against what he termed 'Hindutva dominance.' Rahman asserted that victory in cultural resistance would lead to political success and claimed that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would not return to power if free elections were held.

National Citizen Party (NCP) member secretary Akhtar Hossain has stated that ensuring fair prices for agricultural products in Bangladesh is impossible without fundamental reforms in the state machinery. Speaking at an event organized by the National Agriculturists Alliance of Bangladesh in Dhaka, he criticized the existing one-party dominance and outdated administrative system, arguing that these prevent solutions to farmers’ and citizens’ problems. Hossain emphasized that agriculture is central to national survival and that policymakers often ignore agricultural experts, leaving farmers deprived of fair prices and entrepreneurs facing obstacles. He accused both major political parties of neglecting farmers’ real issues and said that despite claims of development, many farmers remain trapped in debt while a privileged few profit. He also expressed concern over recent political violence and called for a peaceful, self-reliant, and farmer-friendly Bangladesh. Hossain concluded that only a reformed state structure can guarantee justice and fair prices for farmers.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed gratitude to Australian parliamentarians for their stance in favor of democracy, human rights, and a fair electoral process in Bangladesh. In a Facebook post on Saturday night, Rahman commended the MPs for their principled and conscientious statements, describing them as a reflection of universal democratic values and solidarity with the Bangladeshi people. He noted that many citizens are anxious about political uncertainty, insecurity, and the lack of an environment for free expression ahead of the upcoming national election. Rahman also praised the Bangladeshi diaspora in Australia for responsibly raising these concerns internationally, strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. His remarks followed Australian MP Abigail Boyd’s motion in the New South Wales Parliament expressing serious concern about Bangladesh’s democratic backsliding, institutional weaknesses, and potential voter disenfranchisement among expatriates before the 2026 election.

BNP Standing Committee member Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain emphasized that there is no alternative to national unity to decisively resist autocracy in Bangladesh. Speaking as the chief guest at an emergency meeting in Dinajpur on Saturday, organized ahead of the 13th national election for the Dinajpur-3 constituency where BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is expected to contest, he criticized divisions within opposition ranks. Dr. Zahid expressed concern that some leaders are prioritizing personal agendas and authoritarian tendencies over public interest, suggesting possible involvement in domestic or foreign conspiracies. He noted that citizens are eager to vote and urged all political actors to respect the people’s mandate. Dr. Zahid also called on BNP activists to work unitedly to ensure Khaleda Zia’s victory in the upcoming election. The meeting was presided over by district BNP president Advocate Mofazzal Hossain Dulal and attended by several central and local leaders.

Bangladesh’s Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam announced that police officers with controversial backgrounds will not be assigned to election duties. Speaking at a press briefing at Khulna Metropolitan Police headquarters, he stated that although a formal list of such officers has not yet been prepared, district superintendents of police (SPs) and deputy inspectors general (DIGs) are in the process of identifying them. The IGP emphasized that both the public and the interim government are eager for a free, fair, and impartial national election. He acknowledged that past three national elections had faced criticism and controversy, and said the police are undergoing self-driven training to ensure professionalism and neutrality in the upcoming polls. The move aims to bolster public confidence in law enforcement’s role during the electoral process.

Advocate Dr. Helal Uddin, Jamaat-e-Islami’s Dhaka South Nayeb-e-Ameer and candidate for Dhaka-8 constituency, has called for a national referendum before holding the upcoming general election to make it meaningful. Speaking at a street rally organized by Shahjahanpur Thana Jamaat, he urged all pro-democracy and peace-loving political parties to unite against what he described as the Awami League-led coalition’s acts of violence and anarchy following the verdict in Sheikh Hasina’s war crimes case. Dr. Helal accused the ruling party of being an enemy of the nation and urged citizens to resist any attempt to destroy public or state property. He also appealed to the youth to join Jamaat’s movement to build a corruption-free, safe, and welfare-oriented Bangladesh. The event was chaired by Muhammad Shariful Islam, with other local Jamaat leaders addressing the gathering.

Former State Minister for Home Affairs and BNP National Executive Committee member Lutfozzaman Babar stated that he had been sentenced to death three times, claiming that no one else in Bangladesh had received so many death sentences. Speaking at several campaign rallies in Madan, Netrokona-4 constituency, after receiving the BNP nomination, Babar expressed gratitude to God, his party, and BNP leaders Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman for their support. He also thanked the people of his constituency for their prayers and support during his 17 years of imprisonment. Babar’s visit marked his first return to his home area since being nominated, where he met with local leaders, activists, and voters across multiple villages and marketplaces.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s central Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher stated that if his party comes to power, no one will face persecution, emphasizing equality among all citizens of Bangladesh. Speaking at an election rally in Gunabati High School field, Chauddagram, Comilla, he described the upcoming election as a contest against extortionists and corrupt politicians. Taher asserted that Jamaat does not believe in divisions between majority and minority communities. He also claimed that Jamaat has gained popularity over the BNP, citing student union elections as evidence. Highlighting his party’s record, Taher said no corruption allegations were proven against Jamaat ministers or MPs, and even his own arrest was later acknowledged by the Anti-Corruption Commission as a mistake. The event was attended by several local and national Jamaat leaders, as well as representatives from various communities, who expressed support for the party’s vision of a peaceful and corruption-free Bangladesh.