The first-ever 'Combined Imam–Khatib National Conference 2025' was held at the China Friendship Conference Center in Dhaka, bringing together religious leaders from across Bangladesh. The event, chaired by Maulana Muhibbullah Baki, aimed to uphold the dignity of imams and khatibs and present a seven-point demand for their rights and participation in national affairs. The demands include prioritizing Islamic Shariah in governance while protecting all religions, involving imams and khatibs in welfare and administrative committees, reducing utility costs for mosques and madrasas, establishing formal employment regulations for mosque staff, preventing arbitrary arrests of clerics, giving preference to qualified scholars in religious appointments, and reforming Waqf administration and education policy with religious expert input. Political and religious figures, including BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman and leaders from Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolon Bangladesh, addressed the gathering. Organizers expressed hope that the conference would strengthen the movement for the recognition and welfare of imams and khatibs nationwide.

A political controversy has erupted in Chattogram after former city Jamaat-e-Islami chief and central executive member Shahjahan Chowdhury made remarks suggesting that the administration should act under his party’s command. The Chattogram Metropolitan BNP condemned his comments as fascist, conspiratorial, and undemocratic, demanding his immediate arrest and public apology. In a joint statement, BNP leaders Md Ershad Ullah and Nazimur Rahman said Shahjahan’s speech was an attempt to destabilize the electoral environment and undermine democratic norms. They argued that his comments amounted to a direct threat to administrative neutrality and the people’s voting rights. Jamaat, however, distanced itself from the remarks, calling them his personal opinion. The controversy arose after Shahjahan’s speech at a regional election conference, where he allegedly urged party workers to bring local administrators under their control. BNP leaders warned that such rhetoric could endanger political stability and electoral integrity in Bangladesh.

Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Land, ASM Saleh Ahmed, emphasized that the efficiency and accuracy of Bangladesh’s land management system depend significantly on the professionalism, honesty, and sense of responsibility of surveyors. Speaking at a training program for newly appointed surveyors at the Land Administration Training Centre (LATC) in Dhaka, he highlighted that surveyors play a crucial role in boundary demarcation, map preparation, record correction, ownership verification, and dispute resolution. He noted that in the digital era, technological proficiency—such as the use of drones, GIS, GPS, and digital mapping—is essential to ensure faster, more transparent, and citizen-friendly land services. Saleh Ahmed also stated that all recent recruitments were merit-based, ensuring that capable and ethical personnel contribute to reducing corruption and irregularities. He described surveying not merely as a technical job but as a vital public service responsibility that builds citizens’ trust in the land administration system.

BNP Chairperson’s adviser Zainul Abedin Faruk stated that a fair and credible election will take place under the leadership of Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus. Speaking at a discussion organized by the Bangladesh National Homeless Party at the National Press Club on Sunday, Faruk criticized the ruling Awami League, accusing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of past political repression and violence. He claimed that the people of Bangladesh are now waiting for Tarique Rahman’s leadership in a fascist-free country. Addressing India, Faruk urged New Delhi to return Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh to implement the verdict against her if it wishes to maintain friendly relations. He also emphasized that in the upcoming February 2026 election, BNP supporters should follow Tarique Rahman’s directives and focus on preventing the return of authoritarian rule. Other BNP leaders, including Joint Secretary General Abdus Salam Azad, also spoke at the event.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has attributed the country’s current security crisis to past policy missteps, particularly its overly close relationship with the Afghan Taliban. Speaking on Samaa TV, Asif criticized former policymakers who believed in strategic alignment with the Taliban, calling it a grave mistake that has now backfired. He said Pakistan is once again facing intensified proxy conflicts and warned that the risk of war with India remains real. Asif also noted that the presence of Taliban leadership in Pakistan in the past should be a matter of national regret and introspection. He accused India of attempting to destabilize Pakistan through Afghanistan. Despite these challenges, Asif emphasized that Pakistan’s military now enjoys unprecedented unity and coordination with civilian authorities, which he believes will help the country confront its current security threats.

Bangladesh has formally requested India to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and ex-Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, both convicted of crimes against humanity during the July mass uprising. Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain confirmed on Sunday that a letter was sent from Bangladesh’s mission in New Delhi to India’s Ministry of External Affairs on Friday. The International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Hasina and Kamal to death on November 17 for their roles in the July killings. Dhaka emphasized that India, as a treaty partner, has a legal and moral obligation to return the convicted fugitives. Hasina fled to India on August 5 last year following a mass student and public uprising that toppled her government. Despite previous extradition requests, India has not responded. Bangladesh reiterated that sheltering convicted war criminals would be considered an unfriendly act and a disregard for justice.

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin met with visiting Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay at Bangabhaban on Sunday, as part of Tobgay’s three-day official visit to Dhaka. During the courtesy meeting and subsequent formal talks, both leaders reaffirmed the friendly relations between Bangladesh and Bhutan and expressed optimism about deepening cooperation in trade, hydropower, education, and health sectors. President Shahabuddin emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral collaboration, while Prime Minister Tobgay thanked Bangladesh for increasing seats for Bhutanese students in medical and engineering institutions. He also praised Bangladesh’s development progress and expressed hope for stronger future ties. The Bhutanese delegation included senior ministers and diplomats, while top Bangladeshi officials attended from the President’s Office and relevant ministries. Earlier, Tobgay paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Memorial in Savar and attended a reception at the airport hosted by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has emphasized that politics should remain in the hands of politicians, criticizing the growing influence of non-political actors and greed in society. Speaking at a memorial event for late BNP leader Saiful Islam Patu in Dhaka, Rizvi lamented the loss of natural resources and urban mismanagement, blaming unplanned development and corruption for environmental degradation. He accused the ruling Awami League of protecting land grabbers and corrupt individuals, linking their actions to recent urban disasters such as building collapses and earthquake fatalities. Rizvi also reflected on the moral decay in society, where wealth accumulation is prioritized over ethics, and called for restoring political integrity and environmental responsibility. He urged recognition of dedicated political activists who have sacrificed for democratic movements, warning that failure to value them could lead to a leadership vacuum.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland (Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey) has called for greater emphasis on election campaigns to rebuild public confidence in Bangladesh’s electoral system. During a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner A. M. M. Nasir Uddin in Dhaka on November 23, she highlighted the importance of transparency and communication in the electoral process. Following the meeting, Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said the Commonwealth chief stressed that trust in the election system is crucial and that effective campaigning plays a key role in achieving it. She also shared experiences on tackling misinformation, disinformation, and fake news, advising the Election Commission to remain vigilant. The EC assured that it is taking necessary steps, regularly informing the public through the media, and plans to further strengthen its outreach efforts ahead of the upcoming national polls.

The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh has invited 80 domestic election observer organizations to participate in a dialogue ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. The discussions are scheduled for Tuesday, November 25, at the EC headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka. According to Assistant Director of Public Relations Md. Ashadul Haque, the dialogue will be held in two sessions — the first from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with 40 organizations, and the second from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. with another 40. Earlier, on September 14, the EC registered 66 local observer organizations and later invited applications for 16 new registrations. Of these, 15 are expected to receive final approval. The EC plans to engage with all 80 organizations, including the newly registered ones, and may include one additional group following a hearing process.

Home Affairs Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated that there is no concern about the law and order situation worsening ahead of the upcoming national elections. Speaking at a press briefing after a meeting of the core committee on law and order at the Secretariat on Sunday, November 23, he acknowledged that political gatherings and rallies are likely to increase as the election approaches but assured that security agencies are prepared to maintain stability. Chowdhury also addressed recent earthquake incidents, warning that unplanned landfilling and lack of open spaces could worsen future risks. He emphasized strict adherence to building codes and urged RAJUK to remain vigilant. Additionally, he noted that Bangladesh currently lacks an early warning system for earthquakes and suggested exploring the development of an app similar to those used in other countries that can provide alerts a few seconds before tremors occur.

Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has assured the Election Commission of the army’s full cooperation in maintaining law and order and ensuring a free and fair election. Speaking at an event marking Armed Forces Day at the Army Multipurpose Complex in Dhaka Cantonment on November 23, he emphasized the army’s commitment to national interest and public welfare, following the ideals of the freedom fighters. During the ceremony, 64 army personnel were awarded medals for bravery and exceptional service, while 75 families of freedom fighters received honors. Among the recipients, nine were awarded the Army Medal, 17 received the Outstanding Service Medal, and 38 were given the Distinguished Service Medal for their contributions in the 2024–2025 and 2025–2026 fiscal years. The army chief reiterated that the Bangladesh Army would continue to work for the nation’s progress and uphold its legacy of dedication and discipline.

A Dhaka court has scheduled November 25 for the presentation of arguments in a corruption case filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, and 15 others. The case alleges abuse of power in the allocation of a 10-katha government plot in the Purbachal New Town Project. On Sunday, Judge Rabiul Alam of Dhaka’s Special Judge Court-4 fixed the date after one accused, Khurshid Alam, pleaded innocence, while Hasina and 16 others remained absconding. The ACC filed the case on January 13, accusing the defendants of irregularities in land allocation. Following investigation, a charge sheet against 17 individuals, including former officials of the Housing and Public Works Ministry and RAJUK, was submitted on March 10. The court had earlier framed charges on July 31, and 32 witnesses have testified so far. The upcoming hearing will focus on final arguments before the court proceeds toward judgment.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland (Shirley Botchwey) met with Bangladesh’s Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Sunday, November 23. The meeting focused on preparations for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and a planned referendum. Election Commission Secretary Akhtar Hossain and a six-member Commonwealth delegation also attended the meeting. The Secretary-General arrived in Dhaka on Thursday for a five-day official visit, during which she is scheduled to hold discussions with key political and institutional stakeholders ahead of the February elections. The visit underscores the Commonwealth’s interest in supporting transparent and credible electoral processes in Bangladesh as the country gears up for a crucial national vote.

The International Crimes Tribunal-1 of Bangladesh has appointed senior Supreme Court lawyer Z I Khan Panna as legal counsel for Sheikh Hasina in two cases involving enforced disappearances and torture, which are being treated as crimes against humanity. The appointment was made on Sunday, November 23, under the leadership of Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumdar. Earlier that morning, 13 army officers were presented before the tribunal in connection with the same cases, which name a total of 30 accused, including Hasina. Panna, known for his previous expressions of interest in representing Hasina, attended the tribunal session before his formal appointment. The cases relate to allegations of abduction and abuse during the Awami League government’s tenure, marking a significant legal development in Bangladesh’s ongoing accountability proceedings for alleged human rights violations.