BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury stated that preparations are underway for the national parliamentary elections scheduled in February. “Everyone is eagerly awaiting the elections. Through this process, democracy will be reinstated in the country,” he said during the inauguration of the Small and Cottage Industry Fair in Barishal district.

He emphasized that voters will elect their representatives and government, hold them accountable, and voice fundamental concerns directly. Khasru added, “Previously, the economy was concentrated in the hands of a few. We must expand economic opportunities for ordinary citizens and create global markets for small and cottage industries, ensuring economic growth for Bangladesh.”

A U.S.-made F-16 fighter jet crashed during a military exercise in western Poland on August 28, killing the pilot. Footage shows the aircraft suddenly descending from the sky before hitting the ground and catching fire. No bystanders were harmed, and the cause of the crash remains unknown. Poland, a key NATO ally, has been operating F-16s purchased from the United States since 2003. The incident marks another fatal accident involving this aircraft model.

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has removed Prime Minister Pettongtan Shinawatra from office following the leak of a phone call with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. In the recording, Pettongtan criticized her own military and assured Hun Sen of her support, sparking public outrage and nationalist backlash. She had assumed office in August 2024 as Thailand’s youngest prime minister. Lawmakers may now form a new government or call fresh elections if consensus is not reached.

Under the Digital Connectivity (EDC) project, broadband internet has still not reached 85% of government and private institutions in Pirojpur and Jhalokathi. Dhaka-based contractor Access Telecom has been accused of embezzling millions while delivering only a few routers. In the 19 institutions that received connections, the lines frequently go offline. Even after extending the project deadline to September 30, 2025, questions remain about the pace and quality of work. Local ISPs have provided no assistance, and Tanzila Islam, Project Director (Joint Secretary) of the EDC project, said she cannot comment on whether irregularities or corruption occurred without reviewing the files.

Kabul has summoned the Pakistani ambassador after alleged attacks by Pakistani forces in Nangarhar and Khost provinces. The Taliban government reported at least three civilian deaths and seven injuries. Afghan authorities accused Pakistan of violating airspace and carrying out provocative bombings near the Durand Line. While Pakistan has yet to officially respond, tensions persist over cross-border terrorism, trade restrictions, and stalled diplomatic talks. Recent drone strikes in Shinwar district highlight fragile bilateral relations and regional instability.

Kader Siddiqui stated that the 2024 public movement is approaching the ideals of independence, but the population is increasingly frustrated with the behavior of the movement’s leaders.

During a press conference, he protested the arrests of several individuals, including Latif Siddiqui, by DRU authorities and demanded their release. He remarked, “I believed their victory would last a thousand years, but in just one year, it is on the verge of being destroyed—a situation we did not anticipate. The ruling powers are preventing people from speaking freely and expressing opinions. We demand a fair electoral environment and stronger security measures in Bangladesh.”

Pakistan’s Punjab province is experiencing its most severe flooding in nearly 40 years due to heavy seasonal rains and water releases from Indian rivers. Rivers including the Ravi and Chenab have reached dangerously high flows, prompting evacuations in Lahore, Multan, Jhang, and Sargodha. Embankments are being breached to protect cities, while thousands of residents have been relocated to relief camps. Authorities warn of further flooding, crop losses, and possible casualties in low-lying areas, with continuous monitoring and emergency response ongoing.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has resigned from four National Assembly standing committees, including Law and Justice, Human Rights, IT, and House Business Advisory, following founder Imran Khan’s directive. So far, at least 18 PTI lawmakers have quit committees, part of the party’s broader political strategy amid disqualifications linked to the May 9 riots. PTI will boycott upcoming by-elections, while the ruling PML-N and PPP plan to contest jointly nationwide, intensifying Pakistan’s shifting political landscape.

In Chandrakona Union, Sherpur, a reception and general meeting were held to welcome 24 BNP leaders and supporters who joined Jamaat as associate members.

At the event, Foijur Rahman Firoz, the Jamaat-nominated chairman candidate for the union, congratulated the new members, stating, “By joining Jamaat, you have become part of an ideologically driven Islamic party. However, mere membership is not enough. You must follow Islamic principles in all aspects of life to earn Allah’s satisfaction and attain success in the hereafter, building yourselves as devoted and principled individuals.”

The newcomers expressed their belief that Jamaat is a principled, justice-based Islamic party, adding that the country’s current situation and Jamaat’s patriotic activities inspired them to join voluntarily.

However, BNP leader Khorshedur Rahman from Nakla upazila downplayed the impact, saying, “Those who joined are not established leaders. We have never seen them at BNP events, and the party will not suffer any loss from their departure.”

Algerian Ambassador Amar Benyama was moved to tears at the UN after reading a farewell letter from Palestinian journalist Mariam Abu Dakkar, killed in an Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital. Addressed to her 13-year-old son, the letter urged prayer instead of tears and leaving a legacy through her name. Benyama condemned Israel for targeting journalists, called Gaza a “living hell,” and urged the UN to enforce an immediate ceasefire, provide humanitarian aid, and prevent further genocide.

BNP leader Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain has expressed hope that the Election Commission will announce the schedule for the 13th National Parliamentary Elections on time in February.

Paying respects at the grave of party founder Ziaur Rahman, Zahid said the roadmap announced by the EC reflects the people’s demand for timely polls.

He stressed that elections remain the key means for citizens to shape the future of Bangladesh, entrusting their chosen representatives with nation-building responsibilities.

The Ministry of Primary and Mass Education has abolished the special quota for women in government primary school teacher recruitment, replacing it with a new 7 percent quota. Under the 2025 regulations, 93 percent of positions will be merit-based, while 7 percent are reserved for children of freedom fighters, small ethnic groups, and physically disabled or third-gender candidates. Separate positions have also been created for music and physical education. Recruitment will occur at the upazila level and through promotions, marking the 2019 regulations null and void.

AB Party leader Asaduzzaman Fuad has demanded that the upcoming national election be held under the July Charter, saying his party would not object even if polling is delayed.

Speaking to reporters, Fuad accused the Election Commission of preparing for a “half-hearted election.” He questioned whether the commission was capable of conducting a credible poll given its lack of proven experience.

Fuad warned that without fixing these issues, the upcoming election could become “the fairest but also the most one-sided in history.”

He also criticized the EC for ignoring key reforms, such as lowering the voting age to 17 for those who would reach that age on election day. Additionally, he urged cost-saving measures like standardized posters instead of expensive campaign materials.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned that Tehran will respond appropriately to the United Kingdom, France, and Germany after they initiated the UN “snapback” mechanism. The E3 informed the UN Security Council that sanctions could be reinstated if relief on Iran is not extended within 30 days. Tehran calls the move illegal and says it may impact cooperation with the IAEA. Araghchi emphasized that Iran will protect its national rights and interests against what it considers an unjust European decision.

The United States has expressed readiness to engage in direct dialogue with Iran to achieve a peaceful and sustainable solution to its nuclear program. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that diplomatic efforts complement, rather than conflict with, the snapback sanctions process initiated by France, Germany, and the UK. Rubio urged Iranian leaders to take immediate steps to prevent nuclear weapons development and ensure peace and prosperity for the Iranian people. The three European nations have formally informed the UN Security Council about the snapback mechanism.