The Election Commission (EC) has released a revised gazette correcting the results of the referendum held on February 12, 2026, regarding the implementation of the 'July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Order, 2025'. According to the new figures, the total number of votes cast has decreased by 1,073,616 compared to the earlier gazette published on February 13. The updated count shows 47,225,980 'yes' votes and 21,960,231 'no' votes, reducing both categories by nearly one million and over one hundred thousand respectively.

The EC stated that the revised data was issued under the authority of the commission, though no specific reason for the correction was provided. The updated gazette also indicates that invalid votes increased by 12,559, bringing the total number of valid votes down to 69,186,211. The referendum was held to confirm public approval for the July National Charter, which emerged from the 2024 student and public uprising.

The revised results are expected to finalize the constitutional legitimacy and public consent for the July National Charter once officially endorsed.

State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Chowdhury announced that online news portals and IPTV services in Bangladesh will be brought under a formal policy framework. He made the statement on Thursday, February 26, during a visit to the Nandail Press Club in Mymensingh. Chowdhury said that the ministry had been run with irregularities and corruption for the past 17 years, but now all activities would follow proper regulations. He added that discussions on the policy had been held with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

The state minister emphasized that individuals operating online portals using only mobile phones must comply with government policies. He stated that the government led by Tarique Rahman does not intend to restrict media freedom, as the prime minister believes that a free press is essential for democratic development.

Later, Chowdhury attended a meeting with government officials at the Nandail Upazila Executive Officer’s conference room, where he provided various directives and advice. He also visited the Nandail Upazila Health Complex to check on patient care services.

Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizens Party (NCP), warned that if reform processes do not proceed within the parliament, the movement will return to the streets. He made the remarks on Thursday at an event marking the founding anniversary of the National Student Power held at the Krishibid Institute in Dhaka. Nahid said preparations are underway for such a movement if parliamentary discussions remain blocked.

Reflecting on the NCP’s first year, Nahid acknowledged mistakes but emphasized that the party’s foundation lies in the July mass uprising. He alleged that although students played a leading role in that movement, political leaders are now reaping its benefits. He also claimed that, similar to the 1990 uprising, students have again been deceived in the 2024 movement, as leaders have avoided taking oaths for the reform council while citing referendums.

The event was attended by leaders and activists from various levels of the NCP and National Student Power, underscoring the party’s continued focus on student-led reform efforts.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has directed 30 major Hajj agencies to complete all visa processing for pilgrims by March 5. The instruction, issued on February 25, requires agencies to ensure that each pilgrim undergoes a medical check-up, obtains a fitness certificate, receives mandatory vaccinations, and completes group formation before visa submission. The ministry’s letter noted that 7,355 pilgrims under these agencies still need health examinations, including 1,306 from Bangladesh Overseas Services and 10 from Ehsan Air Travels.

According to the ministry, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has set March 20 as the final date for completing visa processing. However, the process can take five to ten days after health and administrative requirements are fulfilled, with possible delays due to technical issues. The ministry also warned that offices in both Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia might close around Eid-ul-Fitr, urging agencies to act promptly.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs expressed hope that all agencies would take necessary measures to complete the required procedures within the given timeframe.

Madaripur-2 Member of Parliament Zahandar Ali Mia has expressed optimism that ordinary citizens will receive their family cards before Eid. He made the comment on Thursday afternoon after a meeting with officials of Rajoir upazila in Madaripur, responding to questions from journalists.

The MP said the government had earlier announced the introduction of family, agriculture, and health cards before the election, as part of its 31-point state reform plan. In line with that initiative, family card distribution has already begun on a pilot basis in 14 upazilas across eight divisions, including one upazila in Rajbari district. He emphasized that the process would be transparent and accountable, conducted online through the Department of Social Services without political influence.

Zahandar Ali Mia added that the digital management system was introduced to overcome past criticisms of irregularities in allowance and aid programs. The meeting was chaired by Rajoir Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mahfuzul Haque, with local police and BNP leaders also in attendance.

A Chhatra League leader from Nalchity in Jhalakathi, Rakibul Islam Jomaddar, was temporarily released on parole to attend his father’s funeral on Thursday, February 26. The funeral of his father, Mosharraf Jomaddar, took place at the family graveyard in Kamdevpur village under Subidpur Union. Rakibul, who serves as the organizational secretary of the Subidpur Union Chhatra League, participated in the funeral under strict police supervision and was returned to prison after the ceremony.

According to family sources, Rakibul had been in jail in connection with a political case when his father passed away earlier that morning. Following a family request and administrative approval, he was granted short-term parole to attend the funeral. The event was marked by deep mourning across the area.

Nalchity Upazila Chhatra League president Anik Rahman Sardar expressed condolences to Rakibul and his family, while the local police confirmed that the parole and return were conducted according to official procedures.

Bangladesh’s Shipping Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam announced that no vessel will be allowed to carry excess passengers or increase fares during the upcoming Eid travel period. Speaking after a preparatory meeting at the Secretariat on Thursday, he said necessary measures are being taken to ensure safer and smoother river journeys this year. The minister also assured that there will be no traffic congestion from Zero Point to Sadarghat and that illegal parking will be strictly controlled.

He added that bulkhead vessel movement will remain suspended for five days before and after Eid to ease passenger travel. The minister clarified the distinction between voluntary contributions and extortion, stating that any forced collection of money will be treated as a criminal offense. He emphasized that the ministry will not tolerate extortion and that any illegal collection on routes will face strict action.

The minister reiterated that maintaining discipline in the transport sector and ensuring safe travel are key responsibilities of his ministry, with accountability efforts supported by the Home and Commerce ministries.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Abu Sadiq Kayem has alleged that a plan is underway to release ruling party leaders while imprisoning activists from the July movement. In a statement issued on Thursday, he claimed that senior Awami League figures, including Bodi and Ivy, were being granted bail and their offices reopened, while a blueprint was being drawn up to detain those involved in the July protests.

Kayem further stated that the government was ignoring the ‘Security Ordinance’ and using a so-called police murder investigation to erase the July movement. He warned that those rehabilitating what he described as fascist forces would eventually face consequences themselves. He also alleged that after a sudden change in the Bangladesh Bank governorship, institutions controlled by government-linked individuals began receiving undue advantages, signaling a return to partisan favoritism that disregards the mandate of reform-minded citizens.

He cautioned that if such trends continue, the nation would face subjugation and urged for wisdom to prevail before history holds everyone accountable.

BNP Chairperson’s adviser and Dhaka-2 MP Aman Ullah Aman stated that anyone engaging in extortion using the party’s name must be apprehended first and will not be forgiven or given any opportunity. He emphasized that both drug dealers and users should be brought to justice. Aman also urged local authorities to intervene in ensuring proper space allocation for housing construction, noting that unplanned development has created difficulties in transporting bodies in some areas.

He made these remarks on Thursday afternoon, February 26, 2026, while addressing a views-exchange meeting at the Savar Upazila auditorium as the chief guest. The event was organized by the Savar Upazila administration and presided over by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Saiful Islam. Officials from various departments, law enforcement representatives, teachers from three unions, and local political leaders attended the meeting.

Aman further reiterated his commitment to building a society free from extortion, terrorism, and drugs, and called for legal action against land grabbers regardless of their affiliations.

Newly appointed Chief of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Aminul Islam stated that no innocent person will face harassment under his authority, while no criminal will escape justice. He made the remarks on Thursday during a press briefing at the office of the Chief Prosecutor of the tribunal in response to questions from journalists.

Aminul Islam emphasized that internal disputes or counter-allegations among prosecutors will not affect the tribunal’s judicial process. He described himself as someone who does not compromise and assured that as long as he holds the position, he will maintain integrity in his duties. He reiterated that the tribunal will continue its work without interruption despite internal disagreements, comparing the institution to a family that resolves its issues internally.

The Chief’s comments come amid reports of mutual allegations among prosecutors, but he insisted that these matters will be handled internally and will not hinder the tribunal’s operations.

The Bangladesh Labour Party has expressed deep concern over recent remarks by President Shahabuddin Chuppu, describing them as inconsistent with his constitutional oath. In a statement issued Thursday, party chairman Dr. Mostafizur Rahman Iran said the President’s comments appeared to contradict the constitutional principles of neutrality, confidentiality, and impartial conduct expected from the head of state.

Dr. Iran emphasized that the presidential oath is not a mere formality but a moral and constitutional foundation for governance. He argued that the President’s recent statements contained political undertones favoring one side while showing bias against another, which he said amounted to a breach of oath. The Labour Party further noted that any disclosure of sensitive state matters or political positions from the presidency would also contradict the oath.

Citing Article 48 of the Constitution, Dr. Iran said the President symbolizes national unity and continuity, and his words should inspire trust across all political lines. The party urged the President to uphold the spirit of his oath and maintain balance, responsibility, and neutrality in future statements.

Bangladesh Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced that 10,000 new police constables will be recruited soon. He made the statement on Thursday, February 26, 2026, while speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Dhaka. The minister said the recruitment process would begin after receiving clearance from the Ministry of Finance.

Ahmed added that additional recruitment for Sub-Inspectors (SIs) and Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) through the Public Service Commission will be announced later. He also stated that instructions have been issued to reorganize law and order committees at district and upazila levels to maintain stability and ensure effective implementation of security plans.

The minister further mentioned that directives have been given to fill 180 vacant police sergeant positions quickly through proper examinations. These measures are part of broader efforts to strengthen the police force and maintain law and order nationwide.

Sarjis Alam, chief organizer of the National Citizen Party (NCP) for the northern region, expressed disappointment over an incident where the president of the student organization Chhatra Dal was seen running behind the Prime Minister’s car. He made the remarks on Thursday afternoon at the Krishibid Institution auditorium during the first founding anniversary of Jatiya Chhatra Shakti. According to him, the student leader, who represents millions of students, should not have behaved in such a manner.

Sarjis said the Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, attended the inauguration of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair, where the incident occurred. He described the scene as painful and urged Chhatra Dal to establish a new standard in student politics that could shape the future of Bangladesh’s student leadership. He also noted that a new phase of political competition has begun in the country, with the ruling party trying to surpass previous governments while political activities are being replaced by performance-based rivalries.

The event also included references to NCP’s upcoming ten-day program and broader calls for renewed political engagement across the country.

Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani announced that strict action will be taken against government officials and employees who fail to attend office at the scheduled time. He made the statement on Thursday after a cabinet meeting, emphasizing that disciplinary measures will follow existing laws and regulations. Relevant authorities have already been informed of the directive.

Gani highlighted Prime Minister Tareq Rahman’s punctuality as an example, noting that the Prime Minister often arrives at the Secretariat before 9 a.m., sometimes without protocol, to avoid traffic and reduce public inconvenience. This practice, he said, has created a sense of time awareness and positive pressure among officials. He added that the Prime Minister has his own office at the Secretariat and may work there any day at his discretion.

Responding to questions about administrative reshuffles, the Cabinet Secretary said such changes occur naturally based on time and necessity. He also confirmed that cabinet meetings will be held every Thursday.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has announced a ten-day program to mark its first founding anniversary. The announcement was made on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in Dhaka by the party’s senior joint convener Ariful Islam Adib during an anniversary event. Adib stated that the eleven-party alliance remains positive about raising a proposal for the president’s impeachment in the first parliamentary session. He also unveiled the detailed schedule of the anniversary activities.

Under the slogan “The country will move on a new path, fascism will not return,” the program includes an iftar gathering on February 28 at Abahani Club Field in Dhanmondi, featuring families of July martyrs, anti-fascist political leaders, media workers, activists, and district committee representatives. The event will also feature a documentary and art exhibition reviewing the past year’s activities. Additional divisional iftar gatherings will be held across major cities from March 2 to March 14.

The NCP’s anniversary events aim to highlight the party’s ideals of revolution, alternative politics, and reconstruction while engaging supporters nationwide through religious and cultural observances.