Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis has strongly condemned what it described as false, fabricated, and politically motivated allegations and threats of a murder attempt case against its Amir and Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh Joint Secretary General Allama Muhammad Mamunul Haque. In a statement issued to the media on Sunday, party Secretary General Maulana Jalaluddin Ahmad criticized recent remarks by Education State Minister and MP Bobby Hajjaj, calling them part of a deep political conspiracy aimed at hiding the people’s true verdict.

The statement alleged that after visible public support for the rickshaw symbol in Dhaka-13, a powerful group manipulated results through vote invalidation, tampering, and rewriting of result sheets. It further claimed that despite written complaints to the Election Commission, the final gazette was hastily published. The party also linked current actions to past attempts to suppress Mamunul Haque through false cases and harassment.

Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis demanded a neutral and transparent judicial investigation into the alleged election result manipulation and warned that continued misinformation and result distortion could lead to political consequences for the government.

Nearly two years after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarian government, Bangladesh has delivered a historic electoral verdict. Voters have chosen Tarique Rahman, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), who led his party to a landslide victory and pledged political reconstruction and a new regional strategy. The election follows years of unrest and the 2024 uprising that toppled Hasina after a deadly crackdown that killed about 1,400 people. Hasina fled to Delhi, where she was later sentenced to death in absentia by an international tribunal, straining relations between Dhaka and New Delhi after India refused extradition.

Analysts view the result as a rejection of years of repression and of India’s perceived backing of Hasina’s rule. Her tenure was marked by economic stability but also by allegations of arrests, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings. Critics say her foreign policy leaned heavily toward India, prioritizing its strategic interests while leaving key bilateral disputes unresolved. The new government faces the challenge of recalibrating ties with both India and Pakistan while maintaining balance in regional diplomacy.

Observers suggest Bangladesh’s new leadership aims to assert a more independent foreign policy, reducing overreliance on any single power and emphasizing national interests first.

After the gazette publication of the 13th National Parliament, discussions have begun over the allocation of 50 reserved women’s seats. Based on proportional representation, the BNP and its allies may receive 35 seats, while the 11-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami could obtain 13, of which Jamaat alone is expected to get 11. Party forums have started deliberating on potential nominees for these positions, with final decisions to be made by the party’s policymaking body.

According to party sources, merit, qualifications, organizational responsibilities, and experience will be key criteria in selecting candidates. The sacrifices made by the nominees and their families during the previous authoritarian period and the July war will also be considered. Among the names under discussion are Professor Nurunnisa Siddika, Engineer Mardia Momtaz, Dr. Amina Begum Rahman, Shahan Ara Begum, and Barrister Sabikun Nahar Munni. Other names include Saeeda Rumman, Khondkar Ayesha Khatun, Dr. Habiba Chowdhury Sweet, Kazi Maria Islam Baby, Rabeya Khanam, Dr. Shirin Akhter Runa, Tanha Azmi, Nargis Khan, Kaniz Fatema, Selina Akhter, and Ayesha Siddika Parvin.

Professor Nurunnisa Siddika stated that although women cannot become party amir, qualified candidates will be nominated for the reserved seats.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen has expressed China’s support for the new government’s 'Bangladesh First' policy. He made the remarks on Sunday, February 22, after a courtesy meeting with Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and State Minister Shama Obaid in Dhaka. Yao Wen stated that China would not accept interference from any third country in its relations with Bangladesh and other South Asian nations. He reaffirmed that China stands ready to work with the new government to ensure stable governance.

During the meeting, the ambassador discussed the Teesta project, saying that discussions had taken place and that the project now depends on Bangladesh’s decision. He noted that China is prepared and optimistic about the project. The two sides also discussed bilateral relations and the Rohingya crisis. Yao Wen added that China has invited Tarique Rahman for an official visit, which he expects to take place soon. He recalled that Bangladesh–China relations were initiated under Ziaur Rahman, strengthened by Khaleda Zia, and are expected to reach new heights under Tarique Rahman.

The ambassador’s remarks underscore China’s intention to deepen cooperation with Bangladesh’s new administration and maintain regional stability.

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma said India is eager to advance relations with Bangladesh’s new government based on mutual respect, shared interests, and the aspirations of both peoples. He made the remarks on Sunday, February 22, after a courtesy meeting with Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and State Minister Shama Obaid Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka.

Verma emphasized India’s commitment to a forward-looking, people-centric approach to strengthen bilateral cooperation. He described people-to-people exchanges as a vital component of the relationship and reiterated India’s desire to work together in a positive, constructive, and future-oriented manner. He also reaffirmed India’s support for Bangladesh as a democratic, progressive, and inclusive society and expressed readiness to enhance engagement with the new government.

Addressing a question on visa issues, Verma did not specify a timeline but indicated optimism about resolving the matter soon to improve connectivity between the two countries.

Education Minister Dr. A N M Ehsanul Haque Milan said teachers will no longer need to take to the streets to realize their legitimate demands. Speaking on Sunday at the Ministry of Education during a meeting with the Teachers and Employees Unity Alliance, he stated that the government is giving top priority to the education sector and will gradually implement the logical demands of teachers and staff.

The minister acknowledged existing budget constraints but said other teacher demands would be presented to the Prime Minister. He noted that not all issues could be addressed immediately due to budget limitations, though the government remains sincere. He also promised to review complaints against ministry officials, discuss school management and governing body issues, and ensure transparency in the education sector. Reforms in the Non-Government Teachers’ Registration and Certification Authority (NTRCA) will be reviewed for necessary corrections.

State Minister for Education Bobby Hajjaj said written demands from teachers have been taken seriously, and long-term solutions will be pursued through dialogue to prevent future unrest. He emphasized ensuring proper recognition of teachers’ contributions in classrooms.

A major reshuffle has taken place in the top ranks of the Bangladesh Army, according to an order issued from Army Headquarters on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Lieutenant General Mainur Rahman, previously the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of ARTDOC, has been appointed as the new Chief of General Staff (CGS), the second most important position after the Army Chief. The post had been vacant since January 17. Former Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of the Armed Forces Division, Lieutenant General S M Kamrul Hasan, has been transferred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as an ambassador.

Major General Mir Mushfiqur Rahman, formerly GOC of the 24th Infantry Division, has been appointed as the new PSO. Major General Ferdous Hasan, previously Commandant of the East Bengal Regimental Centre, will now serve as the GOC of the 24th Infantry Division. The Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI) has also seen changes, with Major General Jahangir Alam reassigned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Brigadier General Kaiser Rashid promoted to Major General and appointed as the new DG.

Additional changes include Major General J M Imdadul Islam’s transfer to the East Bengal Regimental Centre and Brigadier General Md Hafizur Rahman’s promotion to Major General and appointment as GOC of the 55th Infantry Division.

Disaster Management and Relief Minister Principal Asadul Habib Dulu visited his constituency in Lalmonirhat Sadar Upazila on Friday afternoon after assuming office. During his three-day visit, he met with party members, social organizations, and local residents. On Saturday night around 9:30 p.m., two district Awami League leaders—Treasurer and Union Parishad Chairman Habibur Rahman Habib and Education and Research Secretary and former Principal Sarwar Alam—visited the Circuit House to present him with flowers.

Photos and videos of the nighttime floral greeting quickly went viral on social media, triggering widespread discussion and criticism. Several district Awami League leaders alleged that the two had shifted political allegiance and previously campaigned for the BNP’s election symbol during the February 12 national polls. Anonymous sources suggested that opportunists across the country were becoming active ahead of upcoming local government elections, intensifying grassroots political tensions.

BNP leaders, however, stated that Minister Dulu now serves all citizens and that anyone may greet him. They added that determining any legal wrongdoing is the responsibility of the authorities.

Education Minister A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon has declared that no form of corruption will be allowed in the Ministry of Education. Speaking on Sunday, February 22, at the Secretariat after a meeting with the Teachers and Employees Unity Alliance, he said that teachers would no longer need to visit the ministry to press their demands. He emphasized the government’s sincerity in improving the education sector.

The minister stated that issues such as teacher evaluation, salary scales, and other legitimate demands would be presented to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. State Minister for Education Bobby Hajjaj, who was also present, said that the government aims to ensure a corruption-free education system and prevent the politicization of education. He added that steps would be taken to harmonize the curricula of the three existing education categories.

The meeting reflected the ministry’s commitment to transparency and reform, with both ministers highlighting the goal of creating a fair and quality-driven education environment.

The Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) has announced that citizens aged 16 or 17 can now apply for national identity cards (NID). According to a circular issued on Sunday by the National Identity Registration Wing of the EC Secretariat, eligible applicants will receive their NID, and their names will be automatically added to the voter list once they turn 18.

The circular stated that the decision was made under Section 5 of the National Identity Registration Act, 2010, as amended in 2013. It clarified that any Bangladeshi citizen who has reached or will reach the age of 16 or 17 on the date of application may now register for an NID.

The directive, signed by Khan Abi Shahanur Khan, Director (Registration and Expatriates) of the National Identity Registration Wing, instructed all regional, district, and upazila election officers to implement the order immediately.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced that the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker will take place during the first session of the 13th National Parliament. He made the statement on Sunday after a meeting with the Prime Minister at the Secretariat. According to the minister, the President will convene the first session of the new Parliament on March 12, following the Prime Minister’s advice.

The Home Minister also stated that ordinances issued during the tenure of the interim government will be presented in the same session. In addition, he mentioned that reshuffles have begun at the higher levels of the police administration.

The announcement marks a key step in initiating the activities of the 13th National Parliament, setting the stage for leadership selection and administrative adjustments within the government.

Newly elected NCP member secretary Akhtar Hossain announced his first post-election visit to his constituency in Rangpur after winning the 13th parliamentary election. His visit to Haragachh has drawn protests and a strike call from the local municipal BNP, led by Emdadul Bhorsa. In a Facebook post early Sunday, Hossain warned that if anything happened to him during the visit, responsibility would lie with Bhorsa and the BNP high command. He stated that he would continue working for the oppressed workers of Haragachh.

In his post, Hossain accused Bhorsa’s supporters of election-day irregularities, intimidation, and post-poll violence against NCP activists. He described incidents of obstruction, threats, and attacks at polling centers, alleging that Bhorsa’s men attempted to manipulate votes in Haragachh. Hossain claimed that despite repeated appeals, authorities took no action to stop the violence or vandalism.

Hossain said he planned to visit damaged homes and meet displaced supporters, adding that he had secured special allocations worth 6.5 crore taka for Haragachh’s development. He reiterated that any harm to him during the visit would be the responsibility of Bhorsa and the BNP leadership.

Five leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) were injured in an alleged attack by Awami League activists at Pattashi Bazar in Indurkani upazila of Pirojpur on Friday night. The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m., leaving the presidents of the local Matsyajibi Dal and JASAS among the injured. The victims, identified as Nazrul Islam Fakir, Zahid Hossain, Nahid Hossain, Nasir Uddin Fakir, and Naim Hossain, were first treated at Indurkani Upazila Health Complex and later transferred to Pirojpur District Hospital.

According to locals, they found the victims bleeding and two of them unconscious when they arrived at the scene after hearing cries for help. Injured Zahid Hossain alleged that the attack was led by Nasir Uddin Tuku, joint secretary of the local Awami League, along with his son Raihan and brother Alaudin, claiming it was retaliation for their involvement with the BNP. However, Nasir Uddin denied the allegation, saying he was injured while trying to stop the fight and was being falsely accused.

Indurkani Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md. Shamim Hawlader said they received reports of the clash and would take legal action upon receiving a written complaint.

Detective Branch (DB) police detained Ferdous Ahmed Chowdhury Toshar, president of Bahubal upazila BNP in Habiganj, taking him into custody on Sunday. In protest, local BNP, Jubo Dal, and Chhatra Dal activists held a rally and blocked the Mirpur section of the highway around 2 p.m., halting traffic for about half an hour. The demonstrators demanded Toshar’s unconditional release within 24 hours.

Police sources said Toshar was detained following allegations of using abusive language and issuing threats to Bahubal Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md Saiful Islam. A leaked phone call recording of the incident had circulated on social media. The dispute reportedly began after police arrested Masuk Mia, identified as a member of the 2019 Union Jubo League committee, whom some BNP leaders claimed was a BNP activist.

Toshar later went live on social media, accusing the OC of involvement in illegal cigarette seizures, drug trade, and other irregularities, which he said he verbally reported to the district police superintendent.

Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh’s Joint Secretary General Maulana Azizul Haque Islamabadi issued a statement on Sunday calling for widespread public use of the words “Inquilab, Insaaf, and Azadi,” describing them as the language and heritage of the July mass uprising. He criticized what he called “defeated cultural fascists” for opposing these historically significant Arabic-Persian terms, which he said had inspired rebellion during the uprising. Islamabadi also expressed concern that a minister from the ruling party had spoken against the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad.”

In his statement, Islamabadi argued that Arabic, Persian, and Urdu words have enriched the Bengali language and played a vital role in anti-colonial and popular movements. He accused certain “secular cultural elites” of attempting to undermine the revolutionary spirit of the July movement by attacking these words while ignoring other politically charged terms. He urged students and the public to respond peacefully to any attempts to distort the historical slogans.

He further called on intellectuals and media professionals to strengthen their skills and strategies to counter what he described as fascist and hegemonic narratives, emphasizing the need for continued cultural resistance.