In Noakhali’s Senbag-Sonaimuri constituency, a woman named Fatema Akter was divorced by her husband Idris after she voted for the BNP candidate instead of his preferred independent contender during the 13th national election held on February 12. Following the incident, the BNP announced that it would take responsibility for Fatema and her three children. The party’s local leaders, under the direction of BNP’s winning candidate Zainul Abedin Faruk, visited Fatema’s home and provided food supplies including rice, lentils, and oil.

According to the report, Idris became angry when Fatema admitted to voting for the BNP’s “sheaf of paddy” symbol rather than the “cup and plate” symbol. He allegedly assaulted her and expelled her from their home, later divorcing her publicly. Fatema confirmed the divorce and is now living at her father’s house in Kesharpar village.

When contacted, Idris could not be reached as his phone was switched off. His father, Md. Rafiq, denied that the divorce was related to voting, claiming instead that it stemmed from family disputes and Idris’s personal issues.

The National Citizens Party (NCP) has announced that it will hold a press conference to discuss current national issues. The announcement was made late on Wednesday, February 18, by Yasir Arafat, the media secretary of the party’s central election management committee. The event is scheduled for Thursday, February 19, at 2 p.m. at the party’s temporary central office in Banglamotor, Dhaka.

According to the statement, NCP convener Nahid Islam and spokesperson Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan will be present at the press conference. The purpose of the event is to address contemporary matters concerning the country, although no specific topics were disclosed in the announcement.

The press conference is expected to provide the party’s perspective on ongoing national developments, but further details about the agenda or issues to be discussed were not mentioned in the statement.

Journalist Abu Abdullah M Saleh has been appointed as the Press Secretary to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. The Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification on Wednesday, February 18, confirming his appointment on a contractual basis with the rank and salary of a government secretary. The appointment will remain valid for the Prime Minister’s tenure or until her satisfaction, whichever comes first. According to the notification, Saleh must resign from any other professional or institutional engagements before assuming office.

The notification further stated that other terms and conditions of his appointment will be determined through a formal agreement. Abu Abdullah M Saleh previously worked with the news agency UNB and Channel i, and also served as the General Secretary of the Dhaka Reporters Unity. He had been handling press-related matters for Tarique Rahman during Rahman’s stay abroad.

Saleh returned to Bangladesh on December 25, accompanying Tarique Rahman on the same flight from the United Kingdom after Rahman’s long exile.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman addressed the nation on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, emphasizing the importance of transforming Bangladesh’s large population into a skilled workforce. Speaking at 9:45 p.m., he said that while the country faces many challenges, it also holds vast potential. He urged students and young people to develop their knowledge and expertise, noting that the government is ready to provide all possible support to help them become competent in science and technology. Rahman highlighted that the world has entered the era of artificial intelligence, and Bangladesh must prepare its youth to compete globally.

In his speech, Rahman expressed gratitude for the nation’s independence and sovereignty, achieved through the sacrifices of countless martyrs. He said the new BNP-led government began its journey with a commitment to democracy, accountability, and restoring citizens’ rights. The prime minister also stated that the government’s top priorities include improving law and order, combating corruption, and curbing gambling and drug abuse to ensure peace and security for all citizens.

Rahman reaffirmed that all state institutions will operate under the rule of law, not political influence, aiming to build a self-reliant, humane, and democratic Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, in his first address to the nation after forming the government, urged business leaders to keep commodity prices within reach of ordinary citizens during Ramadan. The speech, broadcast live on BTV and Bangladesh Betar at 9:45 p.m. on Wednesday, emphasized that the BNP government is committed to dismantling all forms of corruption and irregular syndicates. Rahman said the administration assumed responsibility with a pledge to uphold the rights of the people and the state after the fall of a mafia network.

He noted that the new government inherited a fragile economy weakened by corruption and misrule, and restoring law and order and curbing corruption are its top priorities. The Prime Minister also directed uninterrupted gas, water, and electricity supply during iftar, tarabi, and sehri hours, while urging citizens to avoid waste. He further announced that BNP lawmakers would not accept tax-free car imports or plot benefits and called for austerity among all public and private employees.

Rahman invited suggestions and complaints from citizens and traders on how to stabilize the market and protect both buyers’ and sellers’ interests.

Newly elected Prime Minister Tarique Rahman declared that every Bangladeshi citizen holds equal rights regardless of political affiliation, religion, or ethnicity. In a televised address to the nation on February 18, 2026, he emphasized that the new BNP-led government belongs to all citizens, including those who did not vote for the party. He reaffirmed the principle that the state is for everyone, stating that the government aims to build a safe, self-reliant, and democratic Bangladesh.

Rahman expressed gratitude for the sacrifices of the nation’s martyrs and said the new administration begins its journey in a country recovering from corruption, misrule, and a fragile economy. He identified restoring law and order and combating corruption as top government priorities. The prime minister also highlighted efforts to curb gambling and drug abuse, describing them as major causes of social instability.

He concluded that all state and private institutions will operate under legal and constitutional frameworks, ensuring that political influence or coercion will not override the rule of law.

Newly elected Prime Minister Tarique Rahman announced a comprehensive plan to revamp Bangladesh’s railway network to reduce traffic congestion and improve daily life. In a televised address to the nation on Wednesday, February 18, he said the initiative aims to enable people to work and conduct business from their home districts without needing to travel to major cities. As part of the plan, the government will reorganize and coordinate the activities of the rail, shipping, road, and bridges ministries.

Rahman highlighted that traffic congestion in major divisional cities, especially Dhaka, has become nearly uncontrollable, causing severe public suffering. He stressed that without reducing such hardships, public comfort cannot be restored. The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for alternative measures to ease population pressure in the capital and noted that improving rail connectivity would make travel safer, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly.

He further stated that before urging austerity among citizens and officials, he had set an example by deciding that BNP MPs would not import tax-free cars or accept plot benefits from the government.

Newly appointed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman addressed the nation on Wednesday night, extending greetings to citizens ahead of the start of Ramadan across Bangladesh. He emphasized that Ramadan is a month of self-purification and urged traders not to turn it into a period of excessive profit-making. Rahman called on business owners to ensure that commodity prices remain within the reach of ordinary people during the holy month.

In his speech, Rahman stated that his government, led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is committed to dismantling all forms of corruption and syndicates that exploit the public. He said the administration assumed power with the pledge to uphold citizens’ rights and end the dominance of mafia networks that had previously harmed the state and its people.

Rahman also extended congratulations to the nation on what he described as the beginning of a new journey to restore democracy and human rights. He reaffirmed his government’s goal of building a self-reliant, safe, humane, and democratic Bangladesh for all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

The Vice-Chancellor of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST), Professor Dr. A.M. Sarwar Uddin Chowdhury, has extended his congratulations to Bangladesh’s new Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and his cabinet. The message came on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, following the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) landslide victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the formation of a single-party government. Tarique Rahman, BNP chairman, took oath as Prime Minister on February 17.

In his congratulatory statement, Professor Chowdhury said the new government was formed through the restoration of citizens’ voting rights and freedom of expression after a long struggle. He expressed optimism that under Tarique Rahman’s visionary and dynamic leadership, Bangladesh would enter a new era of development, prosperity, and democracy.

The SUST vice-chancellor also hoped that the new administration would prioritize education and research, enabling universities, including SUST, to reach global standards. He further emphasized the importance of strengthening the rule of law by ensuring judicial independence and restoring people’s voting rights.

Newly appointed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman addressed the nation on Wednesday night, expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah and honoring the sacrifices of thousands of martyrs who defended the country’s independence and sovereignty. He announced that a new, accountable government has begun its journey in a Bangladesh free from subservience, formed through the people’s votes.

In his speech, Rahman congratulated the citizens for restoring democracy and human rights, emphasizing that the opportunity to reestablish dignity and respect for people’s rights has returned because of the freedom-loving, democracy-seeking population. He called for unity among all citizens—Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and people of all political and social backgrounds—stating that the country belongs to everyone, whether living in the hills or plains.

Rahman reaffirmed that the BNP government’s goal is to build a self-reliant, safe, humane, and democratic Bangladesh where every citizen can live securely and with dignity.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) held a coordination meeting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at its headquarters to finalize security and traffic management plans ahead of Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day. The meeting, chaired by DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali, aimed to ensure that visitors to the Central Shaheed Minar can pay tribute in an orderly and secure environment. The commissioner urged all concerned to remain alert to prevent any untoward incidents and directed intelligence agencies to strengthen surveillance.

During the meeting, Joint Police Commissioner (Operations) Mohammad Shahidullah presented an overall security plan through a PowerPoint presentation. Representatives from intelligence agencies, Dhaka University, the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the Directorate General of Health Services, Dhaka South City Corporation, WASA, Fire Service, and other government service agencies shared their views. Senior DMP officials, including additional commissioners from various departments, also attended.

Officials emphasized timely information sharing and proper traffic management to ensure peaceful observance of the national commemorations.

The National Citizens Party (NCP) has expressed deep concern over reports that journalists supporting the July Movement are being harassed in various media outlets. Mahabub Alam, the party’s joint chief coordinator and head of its election media subcommittee, said in a statement sent to the press on Wednesday night that any form of harassment or retaliatory action would not be tolerated.

Alam stated that supporting the July Movement is not a crime but an honor, emphasizing respect for those who stood for truth and justice despite intimidation. He reiterated that the NCP would not accept any acts of victimization or revenge against journalists who took a stand in favor of the movement.

The party’s statement underscores its stance on protecting press freedom and defending journalists who express political opinions aligned with the July Movement, amid growing concern over reports of mistreatment in the media sector.

Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman has responded to questions about whether joining the BNP-led cabinet after serving in the interim government creates a conflict of interest. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday evening at the Padma State Guest House, he said he joined voluntarily and that perceptions about individuals can change over time. Earlier, Rahman and State Minister Shama Obaid met with visiting Nepali Foreign Minister Bala Nand Sharma.

Rahman, who previously served as National Security Adviser during the interim government, stated that Bangladesh is returning to the foreign policy approach of former President Ziaur Rahman. He emphasized that the country will act strictly in line with its national interests and that efforts on Rohingya repatriation will not slow down but rather intensify. He also reiterated Bangladesh’s intention to maintain good relations with all countries while safeguarding its interests.

Addressing allegations of “election engineering” in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, Rahman urged critics to recount the votes if they believe the counting was flawed.

Bangladesh’s new government has begun its work with three key priorities: controlling commodity prices, improving law and order, and ensuring stability in the power and energy sectors. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced these priorities on Wednesday after a cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat. He said the government has adopted a 180-day priority plan during its first cabinet session.

According to Salahuddin Ahmed, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged all secretaries and government officials to perform their duties in accordance with the Constitution and the law. The minister emphasized that the government’s initial focus is on maintaining economic stability and public security while ensuring uninterrupted services in essential sectors.

The announcement reflects the administration’s intent to address immediate challenges facing citizens and to establish a foundation for effective governance in the early months of its tenure.

The newly formed cabinet of Bangladesh, established following the 13th National Parliament election, held its first meeting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat. The meeting focused on implementing a 180-day priority program, with ministers and state ministers sharing details afterward. The government will announce a 180-day roadmap to execute adopted programs on a priority basis.

State Minister for Finance and Planning Md. Jonaid Saki said the prime minister instructed officials to ensure a comfortable environment during Ramadan and maintain stable electricity supply. He also mentioned that proposals for a media commission are under consideration. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid stated that the prime minister emphasized fulfilling public expectations, while State Minister for Labour and Employment Md. Nurul Haque Nur said directives were given to ensure visible, corruption-free work and to expand labor markets in the Middle East.

Adviser to the Prime Minister Zahedur Rahman added that the prime minister instructed authorities to control commodity prices during Ramadan and ensure smooth travel for citizens during Eid.