The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) has held a public hearing on a proposal to nearly double gas prices for fertilizer factories—from Tk 16 to Tk 40 per unit. Petrobangla and six gas distribution companies argued that the price hike would reduce financial losses and help sustain gas supply, while a BERC technical committee suggested Tk 30 as a more balanced rate. Critics at the hearing warned that higher gas costs would raise fertilizer production expenses, potentially driving up prices for farmers and consumers. The Agriculture Ministry stated that the government currently subsidizes Tk 13,000 per ton of fertilizer and intends to maintain stable prices for farmers. However, the Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) criticized previous unfulfilled promises of uninterrupted gas supply, noting a drop of 300,000 tons in annual fertilizer production. Stakeholders urged caution, emphasizing that gas supply must be ensured before any price increase.

Mass protests led mainly by Madagascar’s Gen Z youth have continued for a third straight week, demanding the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina. What began as demonstrations over chronic shortages of water and electricity has evolved into a broader movement against corruption, inequality, and government failure. Police in the capital Antananarivo used tear gas to disperse protesters, with clashes also reported in the cities of Toliara and Diego Suarez. According to the United Nations, at least 22 people have been killed and over a hundred injured, though the government disputes these figures. President Rajoelina, who dissolved his cabinet last week, has refused to resign, saying he is open to dialogue but will not step down. Civil society groups have urged authorities to ensure the safety of demonstrators and release detained activists as public anger grows across the country.

Former Bangladesh cricket team captain Aminul Islam Bulbul has been elected unopposed as the President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The election took place on Monday (October 6) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at a five-star hotel in Dhaka. Bulbul, who earlier won as a director from the district and divisional category, became president without any rival candidate. A total of 23 directors were elected from three categories — district and divisional representatives, Dhaka club representatives, and former cricketers or institutional nominees. Additionally, the National Sports Council nominated two directors: M. Isfak Ahsan and Yasir Mohammad Faisal Ashiq. Among the notable winners were Khaled Masud Pilot from the ex-cricketers’ category and several prominent cricket figures from different divisions. Bulbul’s unopposed victory marks a new chapter for the BCB under the leadership of a former national captain.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has emphasized that real and lasting peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without the creation of an independent Palestinian state. Speaking amid Egypt’s ongoing mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas, Sisi said that a Gaza ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, humanitarian relief, reconstruction, and the launch of a credible political process are essential steps toward long-term stability. Egypt has been hosting negotiations involving international mediators seeking to end the conflict. However, despite diplomatic efforts, Israeli attacks on Gaza continue, killing at least seven more Palestinians early Monday, including some who were collecting aid. Since the war began, Israeli strikes have killed more than 67,000 Palestinians and injured over 169,000 others, with many still feared trapped under the rubble. Observers say Egypt’s strong statement underscores growing regional frustration over the prolonged violence and lack of progress toward a two-state solution.

India is set to purchase five additional S-400 surface-to-air missile systems from Russia, aiming to strengthen its air defense network and enhance national security. Senior Indian defense officials are scheduled to meet Russian counterparts this week to finalize whether the missiles will be jointly produced or directly purchased. Officials anticipate signing the deal during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit in early December. India also plans to involve the private sector to develop local maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities for the S-400 systems. The country has already received three systems under a $5.43 billion contract, with two more expected in 2026. The S-400s played a critical role during the May border conflict with Pakistan. Additionally, India intends to procure 200 km range R-27BV missiles to strengthen its Su-30MKI fighter fleet, while gradually boosting domestic defense manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative.

Liakat Ali, General Secretary of Jhilongja Union BNP in Cox’s Bazar Sadar, was critically injured after a violent attack at his home late Sunday night, October 5. Four youths on two motorcycles entered his house in the Link Road BSCIC industrial area, fired multiple shots, and attacked him with sharp weapons before fleeing. Locals rescued Liakat Ali and admitted him to Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital, later transferring him to Chittagong Medical College due to his worsening condition. Police are investigating, but no arrests have been made so far. BNP leaders allege the attack was orchestrated by local criminal Abdul Khalek in retaliation for Liakat Ali’s vocal opposition to extortion in the area. A security guard was also injured when attackers severed his leg tendon. Local BNP members staged road blockades and protests, demanding immediate arrest of the perpetrators within 24 hours.

On the eve of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) elections, outgoing president Aminul Islam addressed the media, emphasizing that whether the election is ideal or not will ultimately be decided by the Election Commission. Aminul, who assumed the presidency unexpectedly four months ago, highlighted the board’s visible progress during his short tenure. He denied any undue influence despite allegations that sports advisor Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiya intervened in his favor. The election process has been marked by controversy, government scrutiny, candidate withdrawals—including Tamim Iqbal—and accusations of early voting, leaving little sense of real competition. Aminul maintained that his decision to run again is motivated solely by his commitment to Bangladesh cricket and stated that he respects the constitution and Election Commission rules, leaving non-participation or boycotts as a personal choice for others.

The Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Chhatra Dal has announced a one-day program on October 7 to mark the 6th martyrdom anniversary of Abrar Fahad, a talented and patriotic student of BUET’s Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department who was brutally killed by the ruling party’s student wing, Chhatra League. The announcement was made on October 5 by Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib and General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir. As part of the program, a discussion session titled “From Expression to Death: The Spread and Resistance of Fascism in Educational Institutions” will be held at the TSC Auditorium of Dhaka University at 2:00 PM. On the same day, Milad and prayer gatherings will be organized across educational institutions nationwide, seeking forgiveness for Abrar Fahad’s soul. Top leaders have instructed all university and college branches to actively participate and ensure proper observance of the program.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in Malaysia for a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in trade, investment, education, tourism, and defense. He was received at Kuala Lumpur International Airport by Malaysia’s Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil with a formal guard of honor. On Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will host an official welcome and hold talks at the Perdana Complex in Putrajaya. Both leaders are expected to witness the signing of five MoUs and one training-related Exchange of Note covering tourism, higher education, halal certification, anti-corruption, and SME development. Shehbaz will also present an Urdu translation of Anwar’s book “Script: For a Better Malaysia.” The visit will conclude with a business and investment conference expected to expand trade opportunities and deepen Malaysia–Pakistan strategic cooperation amid evolving regional and global challenges.

In an exclusive interview with BBC Bangla after almost twenty years, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman revealed his intention to return to the country soon and actively participate in the upcoming national elections. Speaking to BBC Bangla Editor Mir Sabbir and Senior Journalist Kadir Kallol, Rahman discussed BNP’s electoral strategy, his views on the ruling Awami League, and the state of democracy in Bangladesh. He stated that despite living abroad for 17 years, his “mind and spirit have always remained in Bangladesh.” Rahman claimed that previous governments had legally restricted his right to speak to the media, which limited his public communication. However, he asserted that he continued to engage with citizens through alternative means, including social media. Expressing optimism, he said the “time has come” for his return, affirming his commitment to stand with the people during the anticipated election.

U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Hamas and Israel to take swift action as both parties hold emergency peace talks in Egypt to end the Gaza conflict. In a Truth Social post on Sunday, Trump said discussions with Hamas had been “positive” and involved several Arab and Muslim nations working toward a ceasefire and the release of hostages. He noted that strategic teams would reconvene Monday to finalize terms, hoping to conclude the first phase this week. Speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump hinted that hostages could soon be freed, describing his plan as a “great deal” for Israel, the Arab world, and global peace. Meanwhile, Israel continued airstrikes in Gaza, including on Al-Mawasi, killing at least 24 people, despite Trump’s proposed peace roadmap.

For the first time in twenty years, Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman has given an interview to a media outlet. BBC Bangla announced on Sunday, October 5, that it would air the exclusive two-part interview on October 6 and 7 at 9 a.m. on its website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel. In the interview, Tarique discussed national politics, elections, and various current affairs. Exiled in London for nearly seventeen years, he has been leading BNP virtually but had never before spoken directly to the press. His first public media appearance has generated significant curiosity among BNP supporters and the general public. The interview follows the lifting of a High Court ban imposed during the previous Awami League government, which had restricted media broadcasts of Tarique Rahman’s statements until August 5, 2024.

Bangladesh Khelafat Andolan and the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) held a political discussion in Dhaka’s Kamrangirchar on Saturday evening, addressing the legal foundation of the July Charter, proportional representation in the upper house, and accountability for the July and Shapla killings. The meeting was led by NCP’s senior joint convener Ariful Islam Adib and Khelafat Andolan’s Amir Maulana Habibullah Miaji, joined by top leaders from both parties. Both groups expressed consensus on suspending the activities of the ruling alliance and seeking justice for political violence. They also emphasized working together against foreign or domestic hegemony to safeguard Bangladesh’s sovereignty, human rights, and independence. The dialogue marked a step toward building broader political understanding among parties sharing anti-imperialist values and aspirations for democratic reform.

BNP Vice Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu has said that anyone obstructing the establishment of a democratically elected government in Bangladesh is an enemy of the country’s democracy, independence, and sovereignty. Speaking at a citizens’ rally organized by the “Desh Bachao Manush Bachao Andolon” on October 5 in front of the National Press Club, Dudu criticized the previous 15-year rule under Sheikh Hasina, calling it a “fascist and anti-people regime.” He alleged that Sheikh Hasina is currently in exile in India, which he described as an unfriendly nation sheltering a “genocidal ruler.” Dudu emphasized that true democracy can only be achieved through people’s votes and warned that any attempt to block an elected government would endanger the nation. He urged unity under the leadership of Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman to restore full democracy and protect Bangladesh’s independence.

Former adviser and National Citizens Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam has alleged that several members of the current interim government’s advisory council have secretly aligned themselves with various political parties. In an interview with a private television channel, he said many advisers are now thinking about their own “safe exit” instead of serving the public interest. Nahid Islam criticized his past trust in civil society and political leaders, calling it a mistake, and argued that student leadership should have been strengthened instead. He accused some advisers of betraying the people’s movement and acting for personal benefit. According to him, certain advisers believe their power depends on political party support and fear they cannot sustain the government without it. He also mentioned that conspiracies to overthrow the interim government still exist. Nahid insisted that the presence of student leaders within the government prevented it from collapsing in its early months.