BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi stated that individuals who once supported the Awami League but are now disillusioned by its misrule, corruption, and money laundering are welcome to join the BNP. He invited professionals, teachers, farmers, and workers who align with BNP’s ideals to come forward. Rizvi also announced a nationwide drive from May 15 to July 15 aiming to recruit over 10 million new primary members.

Adviser Mahfuz Alam observed that while the government is held accountable for national affairs, real power often lies with other centers of influence within the establishment—especially in the judiciary, administration, and police. He warned that student representation is being systematically reduced, with only two student reps in a body of thirty. Mahfuz called for unity, honesty, and idealism among students, and stressed the need to eliminate outdated political actors to ensure fair student participation in state affairs.

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen emphasized that Bangladesh must remain free from foreign interference and make independent decisions on domestic matters. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s sovereignty and mentioned an upcoming visit from China’s Commerce Minister along with a large delegation of investors—the largest ever from China to Bangladesh. He stated that peace and internal stability are essential for progress and that reforms are Bangladesh’s internal affair, distancing China from Western-style political commentary.

Sarjis Alam alleged that people are being extorted before and after being implicated in fabricated legal cases. “Money is demanded to avoid being named in cases, and again to have names removed,” he wrote. He also claimed that members of the ruling Awami League and its affiliated wings are sheltering criminals in exchange for money or manpower. “A portion of the police force still colludes with these political operatives,” he added, urging authorities to abandon such corrupt practices before public outrage grows.

During the appeal hearing for convicted Jamaat leader ATM Azharul Islam, defense counsel Mohammad Shishir Monir stated that the International Crimes Tribunal was biased and pre-planned. He argued that top Jamaat leaders were unjustly executed and credited divine intervention for Azhar’s survival. He further alleged that individuals linked to the cases—such as Aman Azmi, Barrister Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem, and Humam Quader Chowdhury—were forcibly disappeared and held in secret detention.

Jamaat-e-Islami leader Shafiqur Rahman condemned the recent incident involving 102 Indians being forcibly pushed into Bangladesh by BSF personnel. “This unlawful act is creating chaos and disorder at our borders,” he said. Urging national unity, he called on the government to show no weakness and to reject all forms of aggression. National Security Advisor Khalilur Rahman had earlier termed the push-in “unacceptable,” stating that entry should only be allowed through formal channels if the individuals are indeed Bangladeshi citizens.

NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah has alleged that Indian intelligence agencies and its High Commission have held at least 23 meetings with various levels of the Bangladeshi government, military, and private sectors this month alone. He accused the Indian side of influencing internal matters to facilitate a potential reorganization of the Awami League, claiming delays in trials are being used to avoid banning the party. “If justice doesn’t include holding the Awami League accountable for war crimes, we reject that agenda,” he declared.

Following Pakistan’s claim of destroying a military headquarters and five advanced aircraft in response to Indian airstrikes, the Indian government has ordered the closure of at least 21 airports in the northern region until May 10. The affected airports are located in Jammu and Kashmir, Leh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. This precautionary measure, effective until 5:29 AM on May 10, has led to mass cancellation of domestic flights amid escalating tensions with Pakistan.

In an interview with The Wall, musician Kabir Suman voiced strong opposition to war, regardless of the reasons or actors involved. “I’ve always been anti-war. My songs have called for peace. True patriotism must include love for humanity,” he said, criticizing nationalism that excludes compassion for people and animals.

Amid an ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in New Delhi to co-chair the 20th India-Iran Joint Commission meeting. Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal welcomed the visit, calling it a significant moment as the two countries mark 75 years of diplomatic relations. The visit underscores strategic ties even during wartime tensions.

Following the fall of the Awami League government, former President Abdul Hamid was permitted to leave the country for medical treatment. Immigration authorities confirmed there was no travel ban against him. However, at least one murder case was filed against him on January 14 at Kishoreganj Sadar Police Station. That case also named Sheikh Hasina, Sheikh Rehana, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Saima Wazed Putul, and Obaidul Quader.

NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah criticized the justice system, stating that killers are being allowed to escape the country while courts grant bail to suspects. He accused authorities of issuing passports under state supervision for high-profile individuals like Shirin Sharmin. Referring to the delay in war crimes tribunal proceedings, he questioned the interim government's record on justice and reforms.

Despite pledges not to use lethal force at the border, India's Border Security Force (BSF) has killed 313 Bangladeshis over the past decade. Experts argue that curbing cross-border smuggling is important, but it must not come at the cost of human rights. Since January, seven Bangladeshis have been shot dead and 20 injured. Analysts stress that international pressure is key to reducing border violence.

Nine months after the mass uprising, former President Abdul Hamid left the country on Wednesday midnight. Accompanied by his son Riyad Ahmed and brother-in-law Dr. A.M. Naushad, he boarded Thai Airways Flight TG 340 at 3:05 AM en route to Bangkok. According to airport sources, Hamid faced no travel restrictions, and there were no formal complaints against him at the time of departure.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar revealed that the national security advisors of India and Pakistan established contact following India’s recent airstrike. The communication aimed to de-escalate the situation. Pakistan’s NSA is Lt. Gen. Mohammad Asim Malik, Director General of ISI, while India’s NSA Ajit Doval has held the position since 2014.