BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman highlighted January 24, 1969, as a significant day in the nation’s history. In a Facebook post on January 23, he paid tribute to the martyrs of the 1969 mass movement, which marked a turning point against Pakistan’s colonial rule. The movement led to a mass uprising, toppling the military regime and paving the way for Bangladesh’s independence. Tarique emphasized the uprising’s goal of restoring democracy and called on citizens to unite for freedom, sovereignty, and human rights.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir criticized the interim government for failing to maintain neutrality ahead of elections. Speaking at an event marking the 56th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed Asad, he stressed the need for prompt elections to restore democratic rights after 15 years of deprivation. Fakhrul warned against delaying elections for reforms, as it risks public disenfranchisement and rising instability. He called for unity among political forces to ensure reforms and democratic governance, urging the government to fulfill its commitments to the people.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order halting all U.S. foreign assistance programs for 90 days pending a review of their alignment with U.S. policy objectives. The suspension affects new aid disbursements, but many existing programs are already funded. Trump criticized the foreign aid system, stating it destabilizes world peace and promotes values contrary to U.S. interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that foreign assistance must justify its benefits to U.S. safety, strength, and prosperity, with determinations made by his office.

Seven individuals were injured during a clash at the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement’s central office in Banglamotor, Dhaka. The National University coordinators demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible, warning of an occupation of the office if action isn’t taken. The conflict reportedly began with an attack on National University activists in Jatrabari, followed by another assault led by Ashikuzzaman Hridoy at the central office. A protest march was later held, while the injured, including three in critical condition, are being treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

Three teenagers were killed in a tragic motorcycle accident in Lalpur, Natore, when their bike collided with a truck. Two of the victims died instantly at the scene, while the third succumbed to injuries on the way to the hospital. The incident occurred on January 21 in the Sekchilan area, and the identities of the deceased remain unknown. Local police have responded to the scene and are investigating the accident.

The National Citizen Committee has established a 13-member Diaspora Cell to engage Bangladeshi expatriates and enhance its activities. Ehtesham Haque has been appointed as the Cell Secretary, with members including Debashish Chakraborty, Aroni Semonti Khan, Tawhid Tanzim, and others. The announcement was made via a press release signed by Convener Nasiruddin Patwari and Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain on January 20. The initiative aims to organize the diaspora community for more dynamic participation in national activities.

A new political party, led by student activists from the July movement and supported by the National Citizens Committee and Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, will officially launch in February. The party’s formation is backed by widespread public support, especially among youth, and aims to challenge the country’s prolonged political dysfunction. A long march, starting from Rangpur and ending in Chittagong, will mark the party’s announcement. A 17-member team is finalizing the manifesto and constitution, with the party’s structure and leadership to be decided soon.

Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, marking a dramatic political comeback. The inauguration, held indoors due to freezing temperatures, set the stage for a term Trump vowed would prioritize “America first.” He promised sweeping executive actions, including tighter immigration controls, renaming the Gulf of Mexico, and dismantling “woke” ideologies. In a fiery speech, Trump declared the end of America’s decline, portraying himself as a unifier and peacemaker while pledging bold reforms to restore the nation’s prominence.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir renewed their memberships on the first day of the party’s membership renewal campaign, held at the BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office on January 20. Tarique Rahman virtually inaugurated the program from London, renewing his membership with a 20-taka fee. Other senior leaders, including standing committee members, also renewed their memberships. Tarique emphasized the resilience of BNP leaders and activists despite political persecution and highlighted the challenges the nation has faced, including enforced disappearances and killings.

China aims to deepen ties with Bangladesh following recent political changes. Beijing has invited interim Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus to the Boao Forum for Asia on March 27-28, celebrating 50 years of bilateral relations. A charter flight may be arranged if his Independence Day commitments in Bangladesh conflict. Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain will visit Beijing for talks on economic cooperation, healthcare projects, and the potential establishment of low-cost medical services for Bangladeshi patients.

BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman, addressing party members virtually from London, emphasized that the upcoming election will be challenging and warned against mistakes that could lead to regret. He urged leaders and activists to remain united and support the people, calling them the party’s true strength. Highlighting years of repression and sacrifices by BNP activists, he stressed resisting injustice and fulfilling public expectations. Tarique called for a renewed commitment to stand by the people and uphold their trust.

Lt. Colonel Golam Kibria of the 59th BGB Battalion stated that the BSF violated international law by using sound grenades during a tense border situation near Chapainawabganj. The conflict arose over mango tree cutting at border pillar 177, involving citizens of both nations. BGB increased deployment and held a flag meeting with BSF, where regret was expressed. Tensions spanned 2 km, involving clashes and injuries to three Bangladeshi citizens. BGB remains vigilant to prevent further escalation.

The interim government has invited public feedback on the July Uprising Declaration. Citizens can submit their opinions via letter to the Office of the Chief Advisor until January 23. The collected feedback will help create a revised and widely accepted declaration, which will be announced publicly. This initiative follows an all-party dialogue on January 16. The Chief Advisor’s Press Wing emphasized the importance of stakeholder participation in shaping a comprehensive declaration for national consensus.

Sarjis Alam, General Secretary of the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, declared that local groups will be formed in each district and upazila to tackle injustice and irregularities. Speaking at a winter clothing distribution event in Panchagarh, he emphasized the region’s 16 years of neglect, particularly in infrastructure development. Sarjis pledged to work tirelessly to secure the rights of Panchagarh’s residents and highlighted the importance of cooperation with wealthy individuals and factory owners to drive change.

BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi questioned Sheikh Hasina’s stay in India after her passports were reportedly revoked. He accused the Awami League of laundering money under the guise of development and alleged that Tulip Siddiq, a UK MP, benefited from corruption tied to the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project. Rizvi claimed Sheikh Hasina and Sajeeb Wazed Joy made a $500 million deal with Russia, with bribes allegedly funneled through a Malaysian bank, as reported in the media.