Interim government advisor Mahfuz Alam stated that discussions with political parties and organizations would begin next week to draft the July Uprising Declaration based on consensus. The government will not draft the declaration but support the process. The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and National Citizen Committee have demanded its release by January 15, though Alam indicated additional time might be required to ensure agreement among all stakeholders.

Adviser Mahfuz Alam stated that issuing a declaration by January 15 is not feasible but assured minimal delay. Discussions with political and mass uprising groups will finalize the declaration within a week based on consensus. He emphasized unity for constitutional reforms and stated that reforms would begin after receiving commission reports. Local elections, he noted, could improve citizen services, while the national election date would be decided after completing election-related reforms in consultation with political parties.

The trial for the BDR rebellion case begins today at the Alia Madrasa grounds in Dhaka. A temporary court was previously set up at the Government Alia Madrasa and in front of Dhaka Central Jail, but student protests in July-August caused damage to the court building and obstructed proceedings. Due to security and transportation issues, the accused are now held at Keraniganj Central Jail, where a temporary court will be established to ensure smooth trial operations.

French President Emmanuel Macron has accused Elon Musk of interfering in European elections by supporting reactionary movements. Speaking to ambassadors, Macron criticized Musk's influence, especially in Germany's elections, where Musk has endorsed far-right parties. This adds to the tension between European leaders and Musk, who uses his platform, X, to push political views, raising concerns over the impact of tech moguls on democracy and the ethical use of social media in political contexts.

BGB has regained control of a 4.8 km stretch of the Kodla River at Matila, Jhenaidah, previously under BSF. After discussions, BGB now allows local activities like fishing. This was announced in a press conference on January 6 by 58-BGB's Lieutenant Colonel Azizus Shaheed. Locals are enthusiastic, now able to freely use the river for daily tasks, previously barred by BSF restrictions.

Today, the Supreme Court's Appellate Division dismissed the state's appeal against a High Court judgment that nullified four extortion cases against BNP's Tarique Rahman. The ruling was issued by a bench led by Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam. Additional Attorney General Barrister Aneek Rushd Haque presented the state's case, with Mohammad Abdul Jabber Bhuiyan and Deputy Attorney General Md Jahirul Islam Sumon in attendance. Rahman's defense included senior lawyers like Zainul Abedin. He filed appeals in 2007 and 2008 to quash these cases, which the High Court declared illegal on October 23, 2024. His team was satisfied, labeling the cases as politically motivated.

A message on the digital signboard of Lohagora Ideal Government College in Narail read, "Chatroleague will return in a terrifying form," alongside political slogans. This led to protests by Chhatra Dal members. Discussions and criticism have ensued, with calls for swift investigation and action. The signboard's connection was cut, operators summoned, and the police are investigating. The acting principal did not comment, and there's significant local agitation over the incident.

Amidst controversy, the Satkhira district committee of the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement faces upheaval as eight members resign, challenging the recently announced lineup. They allege the exclusion of key movement leaders and demand a fairer committee formation. This discord follows just days after the committee's official declaration, highlighting internal divisions and calls for restructuring to reflect true leadership and dedication within the movement.

The state has appealed against the High Court's decision to dismiss four extortion cases against BNP's Acting Chairman Tareq Rahman. The cases, filed in 2007 at Gulshan, Kafrul, Shahbagh, and Dhanmondi, were nullified by Justices Asaduzzaman and Hossain on October 23. The state argues the dismissal was incorrect. A hearing for this 'Leave to Appeal' is scheduled for January 5 before a bench led by Senior Judge Ashfaqul Islam.

Dilip Ghosh, former BJP president and MP, has called for a boycott of Bangladeshi products. On Tuesday, this call was made through a post on his official Facebook page, where he stated that the money from selling these products in India supports anti-India activities. He included images of these goods in the post. Previously, there have been calls in Bangladesh to boycott Indian products. After Ghosh's post, many left comments, with one suggesting immediate protests against anyone selling these items.

Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman visited BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia at her Gulshan residence, Firoza, on Thursday night. The visit, which lasted about 40 minutes, included the General's wife. He checked on Khaleda's health, wishing her a quick recovery. The meeting was confirmed by BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan, who noted the visit was primarily to inquire about her well-being.

In Lalmonirhat's Patgram border at Dahagram, the BGB intervened when the BSF began constructing a barbed wire fence on December 31st, extending 60 yards into Indian territory near pillar 8/51-S. On January 1st, after BGB's strong objections, the BSF ceased construction and retreated 150 yards back into India. The BGB, led by Lieutenant Colonel Md. Selim Al-Din, confirmed the halt and increased local patrols. Jamil Ahmed, BGB Company Commander, noted they've lodged an immediate verbal protest, and a flag meeting has been scheduled to discuss the matter further, ensuring no further construction occurs.

The Washington Post reported on an alleged conspiracy by India's RAW to remove Maldives' President Mohamed Muizzu due to his pro-China stance. After his election, Muizzu aimed to distance Maldives from India, setting deadlines for Indian troop withdrawal and seeking military ties with China. The plot involved bribing opposition lawmakers and funding officials and criminal networks, but ultimately failed as India withdrew support. This incident underscores the strategic rivalry between India and China in Asia.

Environmental Adviser Syeda Rizwaana Hasan stated that issuing the declaration for the July uprising within 14 days is not impossible. She emphasized that such declarations are common after an uprising, and the government had wanted it issued through them. Discussions on reforms are ongoing, with the BNP calling for reforms and providing written opinions. The scope of reforms is debated, with some prioritizing fundamental reforms and others elections. The government considers both issues important. The “July Revolution Declaration” was set to be released on December 31.

Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain stated that relations with Delhi will remain normal even if Sheikh Hasina is not returned, highlighting ongoing mutual interests between Bangladesh and India. He emphasized that improving relations with the U.S., China, and India will be a priority in the new year, with a visit to China planned. Hossain also discussed the changing situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine state and the challenge of resolving the Rohingya crisis, stressing the need to ensure their rights and security upon return. He mentioned that discussions on renewing the Ganga water-sharing agreement with India have begun.