BNP leader Salauddin Ahmed, speaking after an all-party meeting chaired by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, questioned the need for the July Declaration five months after the People’s Uprising. He emphasized determining its political, historical, and legal significance to avoid national division. While respecting the declaration as a potential political or historical document, he stressed the importance of inclusivity, urging that all relevant parties be consulted to ensure unity and broad acceptance in its formulation.

Abu Hanif, the general secretary of Awami League’s Ward 4 in Majidpur Union, Titas Upazila, has been elected president of Jamaat-e-Islami for the same ward. Hanif revealed that he had long-standing ties with Jamaat before becoming a member. He joined the Awami League to facilitate development work in his area but has now taken on the Jamaat leadership role. Although he currently holds positions in both parties, Hanif stated he has not resigned from the Awami League yet but plans to do so. Jamaat’s local leadership acknowledged the situation, emphasizing the need for detailed discussion to explain it fully.

Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of the interim government, emphasized the importance of unity in issuing the July declaration to inspire courage and demonstrate collective strength. Speaking at an all-party meeting, he stated that a divided approach would undermine its purpose. He encouraged recreating the spirit of August 5 for a unified declaration, which would benefit the country and hold international significance. Dr. Yunus highlighted that unity is the nation’s strength and essential for impactful outcomes.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed will attend an all-party meeting today at the Foreign Service Academy to finalize the July uprising proclamation. While there was initial uncertainty about BNP’s participation, media cell member Shairul Kabir Khan confirmed their involvement. The meeting, convened by interim government leader Professor Muhammad Yunus, is scheduled from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. However, several political parties claimed they were not formally informed about the meeting as of last night.

A commission led by Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar has recommended banning those convicted in crimes against humanity tribunals from participating in politics. The proposals also include reforms such as maintaining a party membership list, introducing rotating women’s representation in local governments, and implementing a “no” vote provision. Other suggestions include limiting the term of the Prime Minister, revising MPs’ benefits, and establishing an upper house for the election commission’s proposals. The commission also advocates for postal and online voting for expatriates.

Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Mohammad Sanaullah announced that the Election Commission (EC) is preparing for parliamentary elections targeting December this year. Efforts include updating the voter list and verifying it through house-to-house visits starting January 20. The EC aims to complete this process by June, addressing issues like deceased voters, non-citizens, and dual IDs. The final voter list will be published on March 2. The timeline may adjust based on political consensus and evolving circumstances.

The National Citizens’ Committee and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement announced the “March for Felani” in Kurigram to protest BSF border killings and demand justice for Felani. Led by Sarjis Alam, the movement begins on January 16 with street meetings and aims to escalate nationally. Leaders criticized the government’s failure to address border atrocities and plan to raise the issue internationally. They called for public support to pressure India into stopping such killings and ensuring justice for victims.

An all-party meeting will be held at the Chief Advisor’s residence to finalize the July Uprising Declaration. Political parties, professionals, and advisors, including Dr. Muhammad Yunus, are expected to attend. The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and National Civic Committee demand the inclusion of seven key points, including justice for martyrs, recognition of student leadership, and a new democratic constitution. While most parties agree on the draft, some clauses remain contentious, requiring further discussion for consensus.

A threatening message, “Coordinator, prepare for death. Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu,” was found on the wall of activist Fardin Rahman’s house in Charghat, Rajshahi. Fardin, a key organizer of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, filed a police complaint. His family, already shaken by his previous arrest during a 2023 protest, is now living in fear. Police are investigating the incident, with Fardin expressing concerns for his parents’ safety, who often stay home alone.

BNP leader Lutfuzzaman Babar has been acquitted of a life sentence in the 10-truck arms smuggling case, with no obstacles remaining for his release on January 16. The High Court also acquitted four others and reduced sentences for five, including ULFA commander Paresh Barua. In total, five defendants were sentenced, five acquitted, and four were exonerated due to death. The case, involving former high-ranking officials, revolved around arms smuggling and illegal arms possession.

The Appellate Division acquitted BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, and all other accused in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case. The court overturned previous High Court and lower court verdicts, stating the trial stemmed from political vengeance. Khaleda had been sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2018, serving over two years. The Anti-Corruption Commission found no evidence of corruption. Defense lawyers hailed the verdict, calling the earlier trial a mockery of justice.

Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, stated that young people will oppose anyone supporting fascism, including media outlets. Speaking at Narayanganj Shaheed Minar, he emphasized youth inclusion in all agendas and demanded legal action against Awami League leaders. Abdullah criticized the party’s politics of criminalization and vengeance, blaming them for disillusioning the youth. Alongside Samantha Sharmin, he led public campaigns and rallies in Narayanganj, advocating the July Revolution manifesto and urging accountability for past injustices.

UK Economic Secretary Tulip Siddiq has resigned following allegations of financial misconduct, including receiving gifts from individuals linked to former Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina. Despite an independent ethics review clearing her of rule violations, Siddiq stepped down citing the controversy’s impact on government focus. Reports link her to Bangladesh’s embezzlement cases and earlier controversies. Opposition demands and media scrutiny added pressure. Siddiq’s resignation paves the way for Emma Reynolds to succeed her as Pensions Minister.

Jahangirnagar University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Kamrul Ahsan met Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus to discuss plans for the long-awaited JAKSU election. The roadmap has been unveiled, with the schedule set to be announced on February 1. The Chief Advisor encouraged holding the election, inactive since 1992, under university leadership. Dr. Ahsan highlighted recent progress at the university and provided updates on the July uprising case, including the allocation of 3.7 million BDT for treatment of the injured.

Former Indian diplomat and Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar suggested that ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should be allowed to stay in India indefinitely, even for life, recognizing her contributions to India. Speaking at a literary festival in Kolkata, Aiyar praised recent diplomatic discussions between India and Bangladesh and emphasized continued dialogue. Amid political turmoil and protests, 77-year-old Hasina left Bangladesh for India in August and has since remained there. Aiyar also addressed Bangladesh’s extradition demands.