Following a dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and political parties on Saturday, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir expressed optimism about reaching a swift consensus on political reforms. “We expect a national election to be held soon,” he stated. He also mentioned that Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus has urged all parties to discuss the reform reports submitted by various commissions. According to him, the initial discussions have begun, and political parties have started presenting their views on the proposed reforms.

Pakistan’s military media wing reported that two separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa resulted in the deaths of 15 militants and four soldiers. According to Geo News, a counter-terrorism intelligence-based operation in the Hathala area of Dera Ismail Khan district led to the killing of nine militants. Meanwhile, six more militants were neutralized in another operation in Miranshah, North Waziristan. Since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan, violence has escalated in Pakistan’s border provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. In January alone, 91 people were killed, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants.

Following a meeting of the National Consensus Commission on Saturday night, Nurul Haque Nur stated, “Most political parties have expressed agreement on banning the Awami League. We wanted a decision on this matter today itself.” However, he noted that some parties believe conducting local government elections before making such a decision could lead to increased violence and conflict at the grassroots level, allowing the Awami League to regain ground. Nur dismissed this analysis, arguing that historical trends show elected governments can influence local elections. He also proposed restructuring the advisory council with politicians who will refrain from active politics for the next five years.

In Nagarkanda, Faridpur, allegations have emerged that Yunus Munshi, son of Odut Munshi from Bongram, has illegally obtained a tin-roofed house under the government’s Ashrayan Project-1 despite already owning a brick-built house. Reports suggest he misused his political connections during the Awami League’s tenure to acquire the house, which he later sold. Local residents have expressed outrage, demanding a thorough investigation and legal action against him. The Upazila Executive Officer confirmed that selling or even renting out government-provided houses is strictly prohibited and assured that appropriate measures will be taken.

During a Tafsir session on Surah Al-Ahzab (Verse 35) at the Circuit House grounds in Mymensingh on Saturday afternoon, popular Islamic scholar Dr. Mizanur Rahman Azhari stated, “We are often labeled as radicals and traitors. But the era of using the term ‘traitor’ as an insult is over. It has now become an honorary title.” He further asserted that they advocate for the people and the country, which is why they are called extremists. “We speak for Islam, but we are not religious opportunists,” he added.

The Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) reported that 59 leaders and activists of the Awami League and the banned Chhatra League have been arrested in the past two days across 16 police stations for allegedly planning to incite unrest. Among the detainees are individuals accused of attacking protesters in the anti-discrimination student movement. In the last 24 hours, 19 people were arrested in a special operation, while 40 were detained in the previous 24 hours. They face multiple charges under the Special Powers Act, Anti-Terrorism Act, and the Penal Code. The arrested individuals have been sent to jail following court procedures.

A press release from the police headquarters on Saturday evening announced that 477 more individuals have been arrested nationwide in the special crackdown, Operation Devil Hunt. Additionally, 870 individuals facing various charges and warrants have also been detained. In total, 1,347 arrests were made in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of arrests over the past eight days to 4,401. Authorities have also seized a foreign pistol, two magazines, 20 rounds of ammunition, three knives, two machetes, and three hammers during the operation.

Attorney General Mohammad Asaduzzaman has called the 2009 BDR massacre an international conspiracy aimed at preserving the Awami League’s hold on power. He emphasized that the massacre, which led to the killing of 57 army personnel, was designed to destabilize the nation and suppress voters’ rights. Asaduzzaman also criticized India for its role in undermining Bangladesh’s sovereignty and stressed the need for a thorough investigation into the massacre, including the involvement of political groups and the masterminds behind it.

The UN’s recent report on the July genocide has debunked all propaganda against Bangladesh, providing international validation of the truth, says Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. He emphasized that no fabricated statements will be entertained anymore, as the report has clearly identified the victims and locations. Yunus stressed the importance of remaining united and strong, particularly in the face of opposition efforts to return. He also paid tribute to the martyrs of the popular uprising and vowed to honor their sacrifices for future generations.

Poet and Daily Jugantor editor Abdul Hai Shikdar criticized Bangla Academy’s standardized Bengali spelling, calling it a mere photocopy of India’s Anandabazar Patrika. Speaking at a discussion on Syed Ali Ahsan’s contributions to Bengali culture, Shikdar emphasized Ahsan’s unique role in blending tradition with modernity and science with belief. He also called for an auditorium to be named after Ahsan at Bangla Academy and for a memorial book to honor his legacy, highlighting his critical impact on Bengali literature and culture.

A Jahangirnagar University student, Naimur Rahman, was beaten and threatened by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) leader Parvez Mosharraf after confronting him for smoking in an elevator at Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Hall. The altercation escalated when Parvez aggressively labeled Naimur as a ‘Shibir supporter.’ Naimur filed a complaint seeking justice and protection. Parvez has not responded to the accusations, and the university’s administration plans to investigate the incident once the written complaint is received.

Interim Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated that the government has gained strong domestic and international support, leaving the ousted regime unable to push its narratives. Even an appeal to U.S. President Trump failed to change the situation. He emphasized the importance of completing reforms, as global allies are ready to assist economically but expect Bangladesh to lead the process. Yunus urged political unity to ensure lasting change, highlighting that despite debates, national solidarity remains strong, making reform a historic opportunity Bangladesh must not waste.

Interim Government’s Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated that those whom the people of Bangladesh ousted are now desperate to return. Speaking at the first meeting of the National Consensus Commission, he emphasized the need for resilience. Reflecting on six months of governance, he highlighted the unity among citizens and political leaders, despite differences. He expressed confidence that if this unity continues, a new Bangladesh can be built. He also acknowledged attempts to obstruct progress but affirmed that collective strength has overcome these challenges.

Sarjis Alam, central coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and chief organizer of the National Citizens’ Committee, has demanded an immediate ban on the Awami League. Speaking after a meeting with the National Consensus Commission, he declared, “Many leaders are seeking a safe exit, but we will not compromise with a murderous party.” Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated that the interim government has entered its second phase with strong public and international support. He also thanked the UN for exposing Hasina’s brutal atrocities and emphasized the urgency of political reforms.

An Argentine court has issued arrest warrants against Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing and ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity against the Rohingya. Myanmar has criticized the ruling. The case was filed by a Rohingya advocacy group in Argentina, and junta spokesperson Min Tun dismissed the decision, urging Argentina to first address its own judicial vacancies before interfering in Myanmar’s affairs.