A final report submitted on January 4 by the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances revealed that enforced disappearances in Bangladesh during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure had reached alarming levels, affecting not only men but also women. The report documented at least 23 women as victims of enforced disappearance, allegedly at the hands of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and other law enforcement agencies. It stated that such acts were used not only to suppress political opposition but also to instill fear among women and reinforce social control.

The commission noted that the actual number of disappeared women was likely higher, as many families refrained from reporting cases due to fear, stigma, and social pressure. It described enforced disappearance as a systematic institutional tool, reportedly carried out with the knowledge and direction of senior political leadership. The report also traced changes in disappearance patterns over time, linking them to shifts in leadership and institutional practices.

The report concluded that enforced disappearances were not isolated incidents but part of a sustained state policy of repression that persisted for over a decade under political authorization.

U.S. President Donald Trump has invited Colombian President Gustavo Petro to the White House, just days after threatening possible military action against Colombia over alleged drug trafficking links. The invitation followed a tense period during which Trump warned Petro following a U.S. military operation in neighboring Venezuela that removed Nicolás Maduro from power. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump hinted at a similar intervention in Colombia but later softened his tone after a phone conversation with Petro.

Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that Petro had called to explain the drug situation and other disagreements between the two countries. He praised Petro’s approach and expressed eagerness to meet him soon in Washington. Earlier, Trump had imposed financial sanctions on Petro and his family without presenting evidence, prompting Petro to declare he was ready to take up arms if necessary.

Petro confirmed he would attend the White House meeting, though no date has been set. He also urged Trump to restore direct communication between their foreign ministries and presidential offices, noting the long-standing military and economic ties between Colombia and the United States.

With only 36 days remaining before Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election, the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus is intensifying preparations to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful vote. Intelligence and law enforcement reports warn that the banned Awami League and its affiliates may attempt to disrupt the election in several constituencies, particularly in seven high-risk districts: Gopalganj, Faridpur, Madaripur, Shariatpur, Gazipur, Narail, and Bagerhat. Authorities have identified 15 additional districts as vulnerable and are taking extra precautions.

The Home Ministry has announced that over 700,000 security personnel will be deployed nationwide from February 8 to 14, with special surveillance through CCTV at more than 2,500 high-risk polling centers. Restrictions on vehicle movement and firearm possession will be enforced during the election period. Political parties, including BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, have expressed differing views on government neutrality and election fairness, while BNP leaders pledged cooperation to maintain a peaceful environment.

Officials emphasized that social media rumors and internal party conflicts could threaten electoral stability, urging all political groups to act responsibly to preserve a credible and participatory election process.

Sylhet Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Md. Sarwar Alam has declared that no one can buy him even with ten thousand crore taka and vowed to resign if anyone can prove he accepted a bribe. He made the statement on Wednesday evening during a press briefing at the district administration auditorium.

Sarwar Alam rejected allegations of discrimination against NCP candidate Ehteshamul Haque in the Sylhet-1 constituency, clarifying that the candidate’s nomination was canceled according to legal provisions, not personal bias. He said all candidates are equal before the law and that he acts based on conscience and legal duty. The returning officer explained that dual citizens were given until 2 p.m. the day after scrutiny to submit citizenship renunciation documents. Two candidates submitted valid documents and were conditionally accepted, but Ehteshamul Haque failed to provide any.

Sarwar dismissed claims of financial dealings as baseless and urged against spreading fake news on social media that could mislead voters or harm the election process.

Newly elected Vice President of Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JAKSU), Md. Riazul Islam, has dedicated his victory to the martyrs of the July Revolution, including Osman Hadi and Bishwajit Das, as well as to all fellow student activists and the recently deceased former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He made the announcement during a press conference held late Wednesday night following the publication of the election results.

Riazul expressed gratitude to teachers, administrative staff, and law enforcement agencies for their roles in ensuring a fair and orderly election. He specifically praised the teachers for their tireless efforts in maintaining discipline and transparency throughout the process. He also thanked police, RAB, APBN, DGFI, NSI, BSSC, Rover Scouts, and Rangers for their cooperation.

Calling for unity on campus, Riazul emphasized maintaining strong relationships among teachers, students, and peers. He urged all student organizations and political groups to work together to uphold campus harmony and implement future initiatives under the slogan “Struggle and Possibility, Walking Together.”

Four journalists from the daily Amar Desh have been honored with the 'July Bravery' award in recognition of their courageous reporting during the July uprising. The award ceremony, held on Wednesday in Dhaka at the Institution of Diploma Engineers (IDEB) auditorium, also recognized around 1,200 individuals, including injured participants, families of martyrs, and journalists. The event coincided with the first anniversary of the Anti-Aggression Movement and the Felani Killing Day.

The program was organized by the Anti-Aggression Movement with support from the JAM organization. Among the awardees, 102 journalists received the 'Bartabir' honor for their brave roles in July. The event was presided over by acting convener Md. Tarek Aziz, with former BNP joint secretary general Aslam Chowdhury as chief guest and JAM chairperson Mehrin Uzma as special guest. Leaders from various political and student organizations, as well as families of martyrs and injured individuals, also spoke at the event.

Speakers emphasized the need to uphold justice for those killed during the uprising and to strengthen the Anti-Aggression Movement across the country under the leadership of the July fighters.

The Shibir-backed panel secured victory in the top three positions—Vice President (VP), General Secretary (GS), and Assistant General Secretary (AGS)—in the Jagannath University Central Student Union (JAKSU) election. The results were announced by the election commission around 11:45 p.m. on Wednesday after counting votes from 38 centers. Shibir-supported candidate Riazul Islam won the VP post with 5,564 votes, defeating AKM Rakib of the Chhatra Dal-backed panel by 876 votes. Abdul Alim Arif and Masud Rana, also from the Shibir panel, won the GS and AGS posts respectively.

In other results, candidates from the Adommo Jobian Oikko Parishad won eight posts, including Liberation War and Democracy Secretary, Education and Research Secretary, and Health and Environment Secretary. The Chhatra Dal-backed Nirvik Jobian Oikko Parishad won three posts, while Shibir-supported candidates secured four of the seven executive member positions. Independent candidate Md. Zahid Hasan also won one executive seat.

The long-awaited election, held on Tuesday after several postponements, saw 66 percent voter turnout among 16,445 registered voters across 39 centers and 178 booths.

In the only female hall election of Jagannath University, the Adommo Jobian Oikko Parishad, backed by the female student organization, secured a sweeping victory by winning 10 out of 13 posts, including vice president (VP), general secretary (GS), and assistant general secretary (AGS). The results were officially announced around 1 a.m. on Wednesday, about 30 hours after voting concluded. Chief Election Commissioner Professor Dr. Mostafa Hasan declared the results.

According to the announced results, Jannatul Umme Tarin of Adommo Jobian Oikko Parishad was elected VP with 571 votes, defeating Farzana Rimi of the Oporajitar Ogragoti panel, who received 236 votes. Sumaiya Tabassum of the same panel won the GS post with 571 votes, while Redwana Khawla secured the AGS position with 545 votes. The Oporajitar Ogragoti panel, supported by the Chhatra Dal, won two posts, and one independent candidate, Mosha Khadija Khatun, was elected Health and Environment Secretary.

The election results highlight the dominance of Adommo Jobian Oikko Parishad in the Nawab Faizunnesa Chowdhurani Hall, the university’s only female dormitory.

The Shibir-backed panel secured victory in the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JAKSU) election, winning the vice president (VP), general secretary (GS), and assistant general secretary (AGS) positions. The results, announced by the election commission around 11:45 p.m. on Wednesday after counting votes from 38 centers, showed Shibir-supported VP candidate Riazul Islam defeating Chhatra Dal-backed candidate A.K.M. Rakib by 876 votes. Riazul received 5,564 votes, while Rakib obtained 4,688.

Following his victory, Riazul Islam, representing the Shibir-supported “Adommo Jobian Oikko” panel, expressed gratitude to all voters and respect for their decision. He described the university’s students as mature and intelligent, emphasizing that everyone voted according to their judgment. Riazul stated that he equally respects both supporters and non-supporters and refrained from labeling the result as a “landslide victory,” attributing success and defeat to divine will.

Riazul also called for post-election unity, saying he does not want divisions among students. He pledged to continue working collaboratively with members of other panels, as they did before the election.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Sharlene Botchwey has expressed deep sorrow and condolences over the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. In a condolence message sent to Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, Botchwey conveyed sympathy on behalf of the Commonwealth family. The message was released on Wednesday by the Bangladesh High Commission in London.

In her statement, Botchwey said she was deeply saddened by the news of Khaleda Zia’s passing and extended heartfelt condolences to her family and the people of Bangladesh during this period of national mourning. She described Zia as a powerful figure in Bangladesh’s political arena and the country’s first female prime minister, who opened a new chapter in political leadership. Botchwey noted that Zia’s leadership across three terms reflected her unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Bangladeshi people.

The message further stated that Khaleda Zia’s legacy extended beyond Bangladesh, serving as an inspiration for women leaders across South Asia and Commonwealth nations. Khaleda Zia passed away on December 30 at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment in Dhaka and was buried with state honors the following day.

The Shibir-backed panel won the vice president (VP), general secretary (GS), and assistant general secretary (AGS) posts in the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JAKSU) election. The results were announced by the election commission around 11:45 p.m. on Wednesday after counting votes from 38 centers. Shibir-backed VP candidate Riazul Islam defeated BNP’s student wing (Chhatra Dal)-backed candidate A.K.M. Rakib by 876 votes, securing 5,564 votes against Rakib’s 4,688.

Following his defeat, Rakib posted a message on his Facebook account expressing gratitude to his supporters and campaigners. He thanked senior and junior students who worked tirelessly for his campaign and acknowledged the trust placed in him by voters. Rakib apologized for not achieving the expected result despite his best efforts.

The outcome marks a complete loss for the Chhatra Dal-backed panel in the top three positions of the JAKSU election, consolidating Shibir’s dominance in the university’s student leadership.

Ariful Islam Adib, senior joint convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), warned that the people of Bangladesh would give a strong response if any foreign country, including India, the United States, China, or Russia, attempted to interfere in the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. He made the remarks on Wednesday afternoon while addressing a rally that began in Shahjadpur, Badda, and moved toward the Indian High Commission in Baridhara, Dhaka.

The rally was organized by the NCP’s Dhaka North unit as part of an “Anti-Hegemony March” marking 15 years since the killing of Felani Khatun at the border. Police stopped the procession before it reached the High Commission, prompting participants to deliver speeches and slogans on the Kuril-bound road. Adib called for the day to be declared “Felani Day” nationally and pledged that NCP members would defend Bangladesh’s sovereignty at any cost.

Speakers at the event accused India of interfering in Bangladesh’s politics and economy and demanded justice for border killings and other alleged crimes. They also called for international action against India for what they described as blatant interference in Bangladesh’s internal affairs.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s district leader Maulana Billal Hossain Miyaji has announced that his party will ensure justice for past violence against journalists if it comes to power. Speaking at a meeting with journalists at the Faridganj Press Club auditorium on Wednesday, January 7, he said the party would investigate the killing of journalists Sagar and Runi, the attack on editor Mahmudur Rahman, and other incidents of repression during what he described as a fascist government’s rule.

Miyaji, who is also a member of parliament for Chandpur-4 (Faridganj) and a candidate of the 12-party alliance, emphasized the importance of journalists as the mirror of the nation. He urged them to uphold truth and courage in their reporting, to expose irregularities and corruption, and to distinguish clearly between right and wrong.

The meeting was attended by local Jamaat leaders, including Yunus Helal and Advocate Shakhawat Hossain Patwari, as well as members of the Faridganj Press Club, with its president Mamunur Rashid Pathan presiding.

On Tuesday, January 7, Bangladesh Labour Party Chairman Dr. Mostafizur Rahman Iran issued a statement marking Felani Murder Day, condemning the continued killing of Bangladeshi citizens along the border. He described the recurrence of such incidents as deeply concerning and a violation of Bangladesh’s sovereignty and human rights. The party called for an immediate end to border killings, exemplary punishment for the perpetrators, and effective diplomatic measures to protect national dignity.

Dr. Iran stated that the killing of unarmed Bangladeshi civilians at the border constitutes a direct breach of international law and human rights conventions. He criticized what he termed the silence and submissive stance of the Hasina government, alleging that such behavior indirectly encourages these incidents. He further noted that the incomplete justice for Felani’s murder has fostered a culture of impunity among those responsible for border killings.

The Labour Party’s statement emphasized the need for urgent diplomatic initiatives to stop the killings and uphold Bangladesh’s sovereignty and human rights obligations.

NCP convener Nahid Islam has alleged that deliberate misinformation is being spread about his declared income and assets in his election affidavit. In a verified Facebook post on Wednesday, he said the campaign aims to cast doubt on a transparent politician rather than uncover the truth. He clarified that the reported annual income of 1.6 million taka represents his total earnings for the 2024–2025 fiscal year, including seven months of state-paid service as an interim government adviser and subsequent consultancy work at a private firm.

Nahid stated that his total assets amount to 3.2 million taka, accumulated over 27 years from savings, gifts, and legitimate income sources. He denied owning any land, flat, or car and said his two bank accounts are fully declared. He also rejected claims about his profession, explaining that his current role as a consultant at a tech firm is lawful and transparent. All income and asset details, he added, are verifiable through tax returns and legal declarations.

He argued that the misinformation campaign reflects discomfort with his limited wealth and transparent record, contrasting it with the lack of accountability faced by wealthier politicians.