Germany is set to hold new elections after the collapse of the coalition government, marking a pivotal moment in its political landscape. The world is closely watching the 21st German parliamentary elections, hoping for an end to the prolonged political instability and economic challenges. However, there are growing concerns about the rise of the far-right AfD (Alternative for Germany) party. With projections suggesting the party could garner around 20% of the vote, the AfD may secure up to 150 seats in the 630-member parliament. Their support from the United States may further bolster their influence, potentially altering German policies. Sunday’s elections show a low probability of a single-party majority, and coalitions with the AfD have been ruled out. This could lead to a prolonged government formation process. The entire European Union and the ongoing Ukraine war are watching these elections closely, anticipating potential shifts in political dynamics.

President Trump alleged that $29 million from USAID, intended to bolster Bangladesh’s political landscape, was given to an obscure entity with just two staff members. Speaking at a governors’ event on February 21, 2025, he criticized the lack of transparency. The program has been canceled under the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk. Trump also mentioned a $21 million India project, sparking controversy. Both initiatives are among 17 aid programs axed to cut U.S. federal spending.

The interim government aims to announce the “July Charter” based on political consensus regarding reforms. To achieve this, the National Consensus Commission will hold separate discussions with political parties in early March. A written reform report has already been sent to all parties for review. Political leaders have stated they will participate in discussions after their internal evaluations. Commission Vice President Ali Riaz expressed hope that consensus could be reached before the set deadline. However, differences remain—Jamaat-e-Islami favors elections only after full reforms, while BNP demands an expedited election with minimal reforms.

Saiful Haque, General Secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party of Bangladesh, stated that the people of Bangladesh have been waiting for 16 years to cast their votes in a national election. He warned that if the interim government prioritizes local elections over national elections, it will further destabilize the country. Calling this a reckless decision, he urged the government to first bring market prices under control. “People will not accept you if you fail to control inflation,” he asserted. He also called on election commissions to quickly outline a reform roadmap, stressing the urgency of holding national elections. He criticized the interim government, saying it is proving to be as ineffective as the Awami League administration.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s Central Naib-e-Ameer, Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, has stated that the interim government is moving in the right direction. “We believe that once the necessary reforms are complete, they will organize elections and hand over power to a democratic government,” he said.

Dr. Taher accused the previous Awami League administration of politicizing every sector of the country, pushing it to the brink of collapse. “There is no discipline anywhere, which is why this government is struggling to implement reforms,” he added. Expressing optimism, he hoped that the interim administration would successfully carry out the required restructuring. He also emphasized the urgency of these reforms and stated that if his party comes to power, they will govern the country in accordance with Sharia law.

Nasir Uddin Nasir, the General Secretary of the BNP-affiliated Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, is set to visit China at the invitation of the Communist Party of China. He will be part of a delegation led by BNP Standing Committee member Abdul Moin Khan. According to a press release issued on Saturday, the 13-day visit will begin on February 24 and conclude on March 6. Political leaders from various Bangladeshi parties, including Mahmudur Rahman of Nagorik Oikya, will also attend. Chhatra Dal believes this visit will play a crucial role in Bangladesh’s political and economic development.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s sudden foreign policy changes, especially on the Ukraine war, have left Germany struggling to adjust. At the Munich Security Conference, U.S. Vice President JD Vance urged cooperation with far-right AfD members, while Trump’s controversial remarks about Ukraine and its president, Zelensky, have further strained relations. With the CDU leading in upcoming elections, Germany’s political landscape is likely to shift, reshaping its future relations with the U.S. and altering its stance on global issues.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Amir of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, criticized the politics of corruption and misrule, stressing that such practices cannot sustain power. He called for all political parties to unite in halting extortion and land grabbing, urging the nation to progress. Speaking at a rally in Lakshmipur, he highlighted the ongoing injustice faced by imprisoned leader ATM Azharul Islam. The rally, led by district president Amir Ruhul Amin Bhuiyan, featured speeches from several key Jamaat leaders.

Colonel (Retd.) Mohammad Abdul Hai, Chairman of Rawa Club, hailed Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman for averting a massacre during the July movement. Speaking to Jugantor Multimedia, he compared Waker to Prophet Moses, praising his integrity and patriotism. Hai claimed that without Waker, Bangladesh faced potential occupation, with Baitul Mokarram Mosque possibly replaced by a Ram Mandir. He accused India and Sheikh Hasina of orchestrating chaos, including the BDR massacre, and credited Waker with saving the nation from a dire fate.

The Local Government Reform Commission, appointed by the interim government, has proposed holding elections for all local government bodies across the country by June. Following the aftermath of the July uprising, the commission noted that there are no functioning local institutions. It recommends conducting elections for unions, upazilas, municipalities, city corporations, and district councils in both plain and hill areas. Additionally, it has suggested amending laws to integrate hill councils within the parliamentary structure, with elections for these councils slated for June 2025.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has urged all to be more sincere in rebuilding the country. Speaking at a discussion session in memory of late journalist Mahfuz Ullah, Fakhrul emphasized that political parties have long fought against fascism, and the people’s collective struggle led to its downfall. He praised Mahfuz Ullah for his contributions to democracy and for uniting political parties after the 2014 elections. The session highlighted his intellectual integrity and unwavering stand against injustice.

Sinn Féin, Ireland’s largest opposition party, announced its decision to boycott this year’s White House St. Patrick’s Day event due to President Trump’s controversial statements regarding Gaza. Party leader Mary Lou McDonald expressed strong disapproval of Trump’s call for the mass expulsion of Palestinians and permanent land occupation. Sinn Féin advocates for a lasting ceasefire and a fair two-state solution to resolve the Gaza conflict and calls for international support in addressing human rights violations.

Hamas has accused the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) of applying double standards in the treatment of Israeli and Palestinian bodies. While the Red Cross conducts formal ceremonies for Israeli bodies, Palestinian martyrs’ remains are reportedly handed over in blue bags with little regard for dignity. Hamas claims this reflects discrimination and the failure of the international community to uphold justice. The accusation follows the transfer of four Israeli bodies by Hamas as part of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement.

A new political party, initiated by the National Citizens’ Committee and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, is set to launch this month. Nahid Islam, leader of a mass uprising, is expected to be the Convenor, while Akhtar Hossain is likely to be the Member Secretary. Other key positions include Sarjis Alam and Hasnat Abdullah as Chief Organizer and Spokesperson. A launch event is planned for February 26 in Dhaka. Nahid Islam may resign from his advisory role soon to take up party leadership.

With the national election ahead, BNP plans to stay active throughout Ramadan, emphasizing grassroots engagement through Iftar gatherings and organizational activities. While large rallies won’t be held, leaders and activists will conduct local meetings, religious events, and diplomatic outreach. The party’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, will join major events virtually. BNP aims to strengthen its presence, resolve internal conflicts, and prepare for the elections by boosting public support and trust. Leaders believe this strategy will shape the election atmosphere nationwide.