GOP leader Abu Hanif has indicated that Bangladesh’s next general election may be held in January or February following consultations with political parties. Referring to Bangladesh’s electoral history, he said that although elections were held in June during exceptional circumstances, the present situation does not necessitate such a schedule. Hanif pointed out that factors like SSC exams, Ramadan, and seasonal considerations make early next year a more feasible timeframe. He also reiterated calls for lifting the disciplinary actions taken against four police officers over the former president’s escape, arguing that senior government officials—not field-level police—were responsible for the incident.

During the Eid-ul-Azha holiday rush, six bodies were recovered within 24 hours from Cox’s Bazar sea beach and surrounding areas. The victims include a father and son from Rajshahi, a graphics designer from Chattogram, and three unidentified or local individuals. Most of the deaths were caused by drowning due to strong sea currents. One body was found in a decomposed state and remains unidentified. Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact causes of all deaths.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman stated that under Jamaat's rule, citizens won’t need to demand their rights—they will receive them at home based on merit. Speaking at an Eid reunion in Barlekha, he criticized past governments for harming democracy and looting the nation. He praised young leadership and expatriates' role in political change. Dr. Rahman urged fair elections and emphasized ensuring voting rights for overseas Bangladeshis. He also called for a non-partisan role of the army, aligning with public interest.

Commenting on former President Abdul Hamid’s possible return, NCP leader Sarjis Alam demanded strict legal action against those who supported or benefited from the previous fascist regime. “The interim government, established in the aftermath of a public uprising, must ensure strong legal measures against those who helped the Awami League’s fascism flourish,” he said. Alam expressed confidence that the interim government would continue taking strong positions on such issues, reflecting their commitment through decisive actions.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman is scheduled to meet Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus during the latter’s official visit to the United Kingdom. The meeting will take place on June 13 at the hotel where Dr. Yunus is staying. While the meeting is primarily a courtesy call, discussions may include elections, reforms, and the July genocide trial. This interaction comes amid recent tensions between BNP and the government, with hopes of improving relations through this dialogue.

Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin has assured that leather traders are receiving fair prices for sacrificial animal hides this Eid. He stated that the government has generously distributed 750,000 maunds of salt nationwide to help preserve the hides. Addressing allegations about rotten leather, he cautioned against spreading misinformation, noting that leather is inherently a perishable commodity. He further mentioned that the government has disbursed Tk 2.2 billion in incentives for tannery owners and temporarily lifted the ban on direct leather exports for three months. These steps, he said, will strengthen Bangladesh’s reputation in the global leather market.

BNP leader Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaykobad has claimed that no one has faced greater persecution under fascist rule than Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman. Speaking at a public gathering, Kaykobad highlighted their sacrifices for Bangladesh and democracy, reminding supporters to continually pray for former President Ziaur Rahman, who established multi-party democracy in the country. He urged party activists to intensify campaign efforts and seek votes for BNP’s ‘sheaf of paddy’ symbol to secure a majority in the next election, adding, “I don’t want to be your leader, I want to stand by you as a brother.”

Mobu Dakat, a fugitive accused in 29 criminal cases, was arrested by police in Kishoreganj, Nilphamari, with 900 yaba pills in his possession. He was caught near his home while allegedly selling drugs. Mobu, known as a drug kingpin and notorious robber, has multiple cases pending in various police stations, along with several arrest warrants. Acting on a tip-off, police launched a raid and apprehended him. Authorities are now processing legal steps to send him to jail under the drug control laws.

As thousands flock to Cox’s Bazar during the Eid-ul-Azha holidays, six bodies have been recovered from various points along the beach and nearby coastal areas in the past 24 hours. Among the victims were Shahinur Rahman (60) and his son Sifat (20) from Rajshahi, who drowned while swimming at Simon Beach Point. Despite rescue efforts by Sea Safe Lifeguards, both were pronounced dead en route to the hospital. Authorities recovered four additional bodies from different parts of the beach during the same period.

Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, has left Dhaka for a four-day official visit to the United Kingdom. According to Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, Yunus and his delegation departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on an Emirates flight Monday at 7:30 PM. During the visit, Yunus is scheduled to meet King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, where he will receive the prestigious ‘King Charles Harmony Award’ from the British monarch.

Sarjis Alam, a leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has announced that the party’s application for registration with the Election Commission will be completed by June 15. Alam said that the NCP has already established organizational committees in 100 upazilas across 22 districts, meeting the prerequisites for registration. He emphasized that the party is prioritizing its organizational strength from the capital down to the grassroots, which will also naturally prepare them for participation in the upcoming national elections.

A tragic gas cylinder explosion in Singair, Manikganj, killed 18-year-old Suborna Akter on Monday morning while she and others were preparing gas to inflate balloons. The incident also left her husband, Arif, and a neighbor, Josna Akter (33), injured. The blast occurred around 9 AM at Hasan Mia’s house due to overheating. Suborna’s left leg was severed in the explosion, and she was pronounced dead after being rushed to the hospital.

Advisor Asif Mahmud has said that the Home Ministry will decide on any action regarding former President Abdul Hamid. "I am aware that there is a case against him," he noted during a project inspection in his native Muradnagar. Mahmud stated that he was visiting the area to listen to people's demands and expectations, as his busy schedule rarely permits such visits. He added that not only Comilla but also regions like North Bengal, Bogura, and Feni have been historically neglected, and the government is now focusing on their development. Ongoing infrastructure projects in Muradnagar are part of that broader effort.

Bangladesh’s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued a fresh warning following a surge in new COVID-19 sub-variants, including Omicron LF.7, XFG, JN-1, and NB 1.8.1, in neighboring countries like India. The advisory instructed authorities to strengthen screening and surveillance at all land, sea, and airports with dedicated International Health Regulation (IHR-2005) desks. Temperature checks must be conducted using non-contact thermometers and thermal scanners. Hospitals have been advised to stock adequate supplies of masks, gloves, and protective gear for healthcare workers. Citizens have been urged to avoid traveling to India or other affected countries unless absolutely necessary, strictly adhere to health guidelines, and seek medical attention if symptoms appear.

Following Bangladesh Railway, the Dhaka Metro Rail authorities have also urged passengers to wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Earlier, the Ministry of Railways issued a notification citing the rising infection rate in the country and recommended wearing masks in crowded areas as advised by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Notably, after a long pause, Bangladesh recently reported a COVID-19-related death last Thursday, with health officials warning of an upward trend in infection rates.