The Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) is continuing its series of dialogues with registered political parties ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. On Sunday, November 16, the EC met with 12 parties including Gano Forum, Islami Oikya Jote, and Bangladesh Supreme Party between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The discussions focused on ensuring a free, fair, and credible election process. On Monday, November 17, the EC will hold another round of talks with 12 additional parties, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party), and Bangladesh Muslim League. The dialogues are part of Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin’s initiative to engage all stakeholders in preparation for the polls. The EC has over 50 registered political parties and is inviting them in phases to share views and recommendations for improving electoral transparency and participation.

In Sylhet-4 constituency (Gowainghat–Companiganj–Jaintapur), two BNP leaders from the influential Chowdhury family staged separate demonstrations on Saturday, signaling an intensifying internal contest for party nomination ahead of the upcoming national election. Former Sylhet City mayor and BNP Chairperson’s adviser Ariful Haque Chowdhury held a meeting at the Gowainghat Upazila auditorium, pledging rapid development if elected. Later, he led a rally and conducted public outreach in nearby areas. Meanwhile, another faction of the local BNP organized a protest march in the evening, demanding that Abdul Hakim Chowdhury be nominated as a local candidate. Hakim argued that only a strong local contender could effectively challenge the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate, Zainal Abedin, who has been active in the area. Locals described the day’s events as a “counter show of strength,” reflecting growing tension and competition within the BNP camp in Sylhet-4.

At a discussion meeting in Jessore, Daily Amar Desh editor Dr. Mahmudur Rahman declared that no political party or individual would be able to come to or remain in power in Bangladesh by acting as an agent of India. Speaking as the chief discussant at an event organized by Prachyasangha Jessore, he emphasized that there would be no compromise on national sovereignty and urged citizens and political parties to unite against any form of Indian influence. Rahman criticized both the government and opposition parties for alleged election manipulation and called for a fair and credible election to restore democracy. He also highlighted the rise of the 'July Generation' as a new political force and stressed the importance of cultural struggle against what he termed 'Hindutva dominance.' Rahman asserted that victory in cultural resistance would lead to political success and claimed that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would not return to power if free elections were held.

National Citizen Party (NCP) member secretary Akhtar Hossain has stated that ensuring fair prices for agricultural products in Bangladesh is impossible without fundamental reforms in the state machinery. Speaking at an event organized by the National Agriculturists Alliance of Bangladesh in Dhaka, he criticized the existing one-party dominance and outdated administrative system, arguing that these prevent solutions to farmers’ and citizens’ problems. Hossain emphasized that agriculture is central to national survival and that policymakers often ignore agricultural experts, leaving farmers deprived of fair prices and entrepreneurs facing obstacles. He accused both major political parties of neglecting farmers’ real issues and said that despite claims of development, many farmers remain trapped in debt while a privileged few profit. He also expressed concern over recent political violence and called for a peaceful, self-reliant, and farmer-friendly Bangladesh. Hossain concluded that only a reformed state structure can guarantee justice and fair prices for farmers.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed gratitude to Australian parliamentarians for their stance in favor of democracy, human rights, and a fair electoral process in Bangladesh. In a Facebook post on Saturday night, Rahman commended the MPs for their principled and conscientious statements, describing them as a reflection of universal democratic values and solidarity with the Bangladeshi people. He noted that many citizens are anxious about political uncertainty, insecurity, and the lack of an environment for free expression ahead of the upcoming national election. Rahman also praised the Bangladeshi diaspora in Australia for responsibly raising these concerns internationally, strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. His remarks followed Australian MP Abigail Boyd’s motion in the New South Wales Parliament expressing serious concern about Bangladesh’s democratic backsliding, institutional weaknesses, and potential voter disenfranchisement among expatriates before the 2026 election.

BNP Standing Committee member Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain emphasized that there is no alternative to national unity to decisively resist autocracy in Bangladesh. Speaking as the chief guest at an emergency meeting in Dinajpur on Saturday, organized ahead of the 13th national election for the Dinajpur-3 constituency where BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is expected to contest, he criticized divisions within opposition ranks. Dr. Zahid expressed concern that some leaders are prioritizing personal agendas and authoritarian tendencies over public interest, suggesting possible involvement in domestic or foreign conspiracies. He noted that citizens are eager to vote and urged all political actors to respect the people’s mandate. Dr. Zahid also called on BNP activists to work unitedly to ensure Khaleda Zia’s victory in the upcoming election. The meeting was presided over by district BNP president Advocate Mofazzal Hossain Dulal and attended by several central and local leaders.

Bangladesh’s Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam announced that police officers with controversial backgrounds will not be assigned to election duties. Speaking at a press briefing at Khulna Metropolitan Police headquarters, he stated that although a formal list of such officers has not yet been prepared, district superintendents of police (SPs) and deputy inspectors general (DIGs) are in the process of identifying them. The IGP emphasized that both the public and the interim government are eager for a free, fair, and impartial national election. He acknowledged that past three national elections had faced criticism and controversy, and said the police are undergoing self-driven training to ensure professionalism and neutrality in the upcoming polls. The move aims to bolster public confidence in law enforcement’s role during the electoral process.

Advocate Dr. Helal Uddin, Jamaat-e-Islami’s Dhaka South Nayeb-e-Ameer and candidate for Dhaka-8 constituency, has called for a national referendum before holding the upcoming general election to make it meaningful. Speaking at a street rally organized by Shahjahanpur Thana Jamaat, he urged all pro-democracy and peace-loving political parties to unite against what he described as the Awami League-led coalition’s acts of violence and anarchy following the verdict in Sheikh Hasina’s war crimes case. Dr. Helal accused the ruling party of being an enemy of the nation and urged citizens to resist any attempt to destroy public or state property. He also appealed to the youth to join Jamaat’s movement to build a corruption-free, safe, and welfare-oriented Bangladesh. The event was chaired by Muhammad Shariful Islam, with other local Jamaat leaders addressing the gathering.

Former State Minister for Home Affairs and BNP National Executive Committee member Lutfozzaman Babar stated that he had been sentenced to death three times, claiming that no one else in Bangladesh had received so many death sentences. Speaking at several campaign rallies in Madan, Netrokona-4 constituency, after receiving the BNP nomination, Babar expressed gratitude to God, his party, and BNP leaders Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman for their support. He also thanked the people of his constituency for their prayers and support during his 17 years of imprisonment. Babar’s visit marked his first return to his home area since being nominated, where he met with local leaders, activists, and voters across multiple villages and marketplaces.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s central Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher stated that if his party comes to power, no one will face persecution, emphasizing equality among all citizens of Bangladesh. Speaking at an election rally in Gunabati High School field, Chauddagram, Comilla, he described the upcoming election as a contest against extortionists and corrupt politicians. Taher asserted that Jamaat does not believe in divisions between majority and minority communities. He also claimed that Jamaat has gained popularity over the BNP, citing student union elections as evidence. Highlighting his party’s record, Taher said no corruption allegations were proven against Jamaat ministers or MPs, and even his own arrest was later acknowledged by the Anti-Corruption Commission as a mistake. The event was attended by several local and national Jamaat leaders, as well as representatives from various communities, who expressed support for the party’s vision of a peaceful and corruption-free Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s Information Adviser Mahfuz Alam has remarked that many who were once oppressed are now becoming oppressors, reflecting a troubling social transformation. Speaking at a roundtable titled ‘Women in Democracy’ in Dhaka, he addressed issues of cyberbullying and political polarization. Alam revealed that he and his family have also been targeted by organized online attacks, allegedly run by coordinated 'bot armies'. He criticized the misuse of religion on social media and urged for accountability. Discussing the interim government, Alam said it was formed with support from all political parties but faced over 200 protests in its first eight months. He argued that the government’s challenges stemmed from both internal mismanagement and lack of political cooperation. On women’s safety, he linked cyberbullying to deep-rooted social fascism, claiming that while state fascism has been removed, social fascism persists. Alam called for social dialogue and political reform to achieve lasting change.

Bangladesh police have arrested 39 leaders and activists from the ruling Awami League and its affiliated organizations, including the Jubo League, Chhatra League, and Swechchhasebak League, on charges related to sabotage, violence, and anti-terrorism cases. The arrests were made between Friday and Saturday in multiple districts, including Bogura, Nilphamari, Dhaka, Kurigram, Chandpur, Faridpur, Lakshmipur, Shariatpur, and Sirajganj. Authorities allege that the detainees were involved in attempts to incite unrest following the verdict against Sheikh Hasina in a case concerning crimes against humanity. Police officials confirmed that the arrests were part of ongoing operations to prevent further violence and maintain law and order. Those detained include several local-level leaders such as union presidents, secretaries, and joint conveners from various party wings. Law enforcement agencies have stated that investigations are underway and that more arrests may follow if further evidence emerges.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury announced that the party will not pursue large-scale mega projects if it comes to power, instead focusing on skill development and private sector growth. Speaking at a business exchange meeting in Faridpur on Saturday, he emphasized that BNP aims to simplify business operations and ensure that economic benefits reach all citizens rather than a select few. Khasru argued that Bangladesh’s future development model should move away from state-dominated mega projects toward initiatives that empower individuals and expand private enterprise. He highlighted the importance of private sector participation in driving national progress and reducing economic dependency on specific groups. The meeting, chaired by BNP divisional organizational secretary Shama Obaed, was attended by academics, party leaders, and business representatives from various districts.

Dr. Tasnim Jara, senior joint member secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has criticized Jamaat-e-Islami for its inconsistent position on reducing women’s working hours. Speaking at a discussion titled 'Women in Building Democracy: What Have We Achieved?' held at the Bijoy Auditorium in Dhaka on November 15, she said such debates are disappointing when the focus should be on empowering women in the workforce. Jara noted that after the mass uprising, there was an opportunity to reform the reserved seats for women in parliament, but political parties failed to reach consensus. She emphasized the need to ensure equal participation of urban and rural women in policymaking and questioned why women would join politics if the environment remains unsafe. Another NCP leader, Samanta Sharmin, added that Bangladesh’s political process is dominated by money, muscle, and male power, leaving little room for marginalized women to participate in decision-making.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has dismissed as entirely false and malicious recent media reports claiming that Lamia Morshed, Lutfe Siddiqui, and his sister Husna Siddiqui were being considered for ambassadorial appointments. In a Facebook post, Alam criticized the report published by the newspaper Manabzamin, calling it unprofessional, irresponsible, and defamatory. He said the report lacked credible sources and used offensive language that insulted the dignity of diplomatic positions. Alam urged the newspaper to withdraw the report and issue a formal apology. Lamia Morshed also denied expressing any desire to join the diplomatic service, stating she remains committed to her current responsibilities and has no plans to seek government positions beyond her current role. The controversy arose after Manabzamin reported that the interim government was planning to appoint several individuals, including Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, as ambassadors to various countries.