Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadiq Kayem has declined a government proposal to assign him an armed guard for personal protection. The offer was part of a broader initiative to provide security to student leaders, politicians, and journalists following recent political unrest. In a Facebook post on Monday, Kayem said he could not accept special protection when ordinary citizens remained unsafe. Kayem argued that selective security measures contradict the principles of justice and equality. He criticized law enforcement for failing to ensure public safety and alleged that fascist influences within state institutions were undermining justice. His statement follows the government’s move to enhance security for prominent figures after the so-called July Revolution. Observers note that Kayem’s refusal underscores growing public frustration over unequal security provisions and the perceived lack of institutional reform. The government has not yet responded to his remarks, but the debate highlights ongoing tensions between political leadership and youth movements over fairness and accountability in post-crisis Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has reiterated that the national election will be held on February 12 as scheduled. Speaking with US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia Sergio Gor, Yunus said citizens are eager to exercise their voting rights, which had been suppressed under previous authoritarian rule. The half-hour conversation covered bilateral trade, tariff issues, democratic transition, and the killing of young political activist Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi. During the call, Envoy Gor, who also serves as the US Ambassador to India, congratulated Yunus for leading recent trade negotiations that reduced reciprocal tariffs on Bangladeshi goods to 20 percent. He also mentioned the large funeral gathering for Hadi. Yunus accused supporters of the ousted regime of spending heavily to disrupt the election and inciting violence from abroad, but assured that the interim government is fully prepared to maintain order. Yunus emphasized that with only 50 days remaining, the administration is focused on ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election that will mark a milestone in Bangladesh’s democratic journey.

BNP Standing Committee member Selima Rahman announced that a new political movement under Tarique Rahman’s leadership will begin on February 12, aimed at realizing the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War and the aspirations of past mass uprisings. Speaking at a Victory Day discussion in Haluaghat, Mymensingh, she said the initiative seeks to restore people’s voting rights and democracy, asserting that the nation belongs to its citizens, not any single group. Rahman accused the current government of depriving citizens of electoral rights and undermining state institutions through authoritarian rule. She emphasized that free and fair elections are the only path to establishing a truly democratic government. BNP Joint Secretary General Syed Emran Saleh Prince echoed her remarks, calling for renewed commitment to sovereignty and democracy. The event also featured local BNP leaders and a pre-Christmas gathering with the Christian community. The announcement signals BNP’s intent to intensify its political activities ahead of the coming months, positioning Tarique Rahman as the central figure in its campaign for democratic reform.

The Gono Odhikar Parishad, led by Nurul Haque Nur, has announced it will not enter into a seat-sharing agreement with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. Instead, the party will contest all 300 constituencies under its own symbol, signaling a fully independent electoral strategy. The decision was confirmed on December 22 by senior council member and media coordinator Abu Hanif following a meeting of the party’s executive committee and nomination aspirants. Party leaders stated that Gono Odhikar Parishad aims to establish itself as an alternative political force in Bangladesh, emphasizing its refusal to compromise with what it termed “Awami fascism.” The party will distribute nomination forms until December 25, with candidates expected to submit their papers on December 28 and 29. Political analysts view the move as a bold but risky step for a relatively new party seeking national recognition. The decision could reshape opposition dynamics in the upcoming election, especially amid ongoing debates over electoral alliances and legitimacy.

Inqilab Mancha organized a protest rally in Sylhet demanding the immediate trial of those involved in the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a political activist known for his role in anti-Indian dominance movements. The demonstration began at Chowhatta and drew participation from leaders and activists of various political groups. Protesters raised three key demands, including completion of the trial within 30 working days through a special tribunal, inclusion of international investigative agencies such as the FBI or Scotland Yard, and the arrest of alleged infiltrators within civil and military intelligence. Speakers at the rally criticized government advisers for failing to ensure justice and called for their resignation. They described Hadi’s killing as a national tragedy and warned of tougher programs if impartial justice was not ensured. The protest reflects growing frustration among grassroots activists over delays in politically sensitive investigations. Observers note that the demand for international involvement in the probe underscores a deep mistrust in domestic mechanisms. Authorities have yet to issue an official response to the protesters’ allegations or demands.

Pakistan’s Under-19 cricket team has received a major financial reward following their emphatic 191-run victory over India in the Youth Asia Cup final. The win marked a significant achievement for Pakistan, whose senior team has struggled to defeat India in recent years. The young squad’s dominant performance brought renewed pride to the nation’s cricketing community. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed announced that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had declared a reward of 10 million Pakistani rupees (approximately 4.3 million Bangladeshi taka) for each player. During a meeting with the team, Sharif praised the players and coaching staff for their dedication and outstanding performance, expressing hope that these young cricketers would continue to bring glory to Pakistan. The victory and subsequent recognition are seen as a morale boost for Pakistan’s cricket system, highlighting the potential of its youth development programs. Analysts suggest the success could strengthen the country’s future talent pipeline and rekindle optimism among fans ahead of upcoming international tournaments.

Police in Narayanganj’s Fatullah area arrested alleged gang leader Bazlur Rahman Ripon, known locally as Haji Ripon, along with his son Imtiaz Ahmed Rafi during a special drive named ‘Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2’. The arrests took place on Monday afternoon in the Jamtala Dhopapatti area, confirmed Fatullah Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md Abdul Mannan. Authorities said Ripon faces multiple cases, including one related to a murder during an anti-discrimination student movement, as well as several narcotics charges. According to police, Haji Ripon is known as an armed associate of Azmeri Osman, nephew of influential local politician Shamim Osman. Both Ripon and his son had reportedly been in hiding for an extended period while continuing involvement in criminal activities. After their detention, police began legal procedures to present them before court. The operation is part of a broader law enforcement campaign targeting long-time fugitives and organized crime figures in Narayanganj. Officials indicated that further arrests may follow as investigations continue into the network’s activities.

A capacity-building workshop on preventing technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) was held in Kushtia, Bangladesh, organized by the Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC). The event, held on Monday, brought together 32 representatives from local civil society organizations and NGOs to discuss strategies for combating digital and gender-based violence. Speakers included Kushtia Department of Social Services Assistant Director Md. Murad Hossain and BNNRC Chief Executive Officer A.H.M. Bazlur Rahman. They emphasized that both women and men can be victims of TFGBV and highlighted the importance of collective community action. Participants stressed that awareness among families, teachers, and students is essential to build safer digital and physical environments. The workshop underscored the need for coordinated efforts involving government agencies, educational institutions, and community stakeholders. Organizers called for sustained awareness campaigns in schools and families to ensure long-term prevention and support mechanisms against gender-based violence in the digital era.

Renowned Bangladeshi singer Munayem Billah, known for his hit ‘Meherban,’ has released a new song titled ‘Koti Hadir Dak,’ inspired by the memory and revolutionary spirit of martyr Sharif Osman Hadi. The song was officially launched on December 22 on Billah’s YouTube channel, marking his return to music after a long hiatus. The release quickly drew attention for its emotional depth and patriotic resonance. Billah described the song as more than just a musical piece, calling it a tribute to Hadi’s ideals and a symbol of national unity. The lyrics were penned by poet Zia Haque, with composition by Abu Ubaida and sound mastering by Sharif Mahmud. Haque noted that the song breaks from conventional styles, combining powerful lyrics and melody to create a complete artistic work. Following the success of Haque’s previous song ‘Hadi Tui Fire Ay,’ which surpassed two million views within a week, producers expect ‘Koti Hadir Dak’ to achieve similar acclaim as a modern revolutionary anthem.

Local leaders of the National Democratic Party (JAGPA) have collected nomination papers on behalf of the party’s vice president and spokesperson, Rashed Pradhan, for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election in Bangladesh. The papers were obtained from the Assistant Returning Officer and Sadar Upazila Executive Officer Fahmida Sultana, and Upazila Election Officer Supta Karim on Monday afternoon. The collection was led by Panchagarh District JAGPA President and freedom fighter Ansar Ali, accompanied by district and upazila-level party officials including Shahriar Alam Biplob, Shamsuzzaman Noyon Master, and others. The move signals JAGPA’s intent to contest in both Panchagarh-1 and Panchagarh-2 constituencies, reflecting the party’s continued effort to expand its political footprint in northern Bangladesh. Election observers note that smaller parties like JAGPA are seeking to strengthen their presence ahead of the national polls. The Election Commission is expected to announce the final list of candidates following the scrutiny and withdrawal deadlines later this month.

Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexander Grigorievich Khokhin has called for reducing tensions between Bangladesh and India, emphasizing that Moscow will not interfere in the bilateral affairs of the two neighbors. Speaking at a press conference at the Russian Embassy in Dhaka, he urged both sides to seek a constructive solution and strengthen mutual trust to prevent further escalation. Khokhin also welcomed the election schedule announced by Bangladesh’s Election Commission, expressing hope that the national polls will take place as planned on February 12. He underscored the importance of maintaining a peaceful and conducive environment ahead of the vote. The ambassador added that Russia is in contact with the Election Commission regarding the possible dispatch of election observers and is awaiting an official invitation. Diplomatic observers view Russia’s statement as a cautious balancing act, reflecting its interest in regional stability while maintaining neutrality between two key South Asian partners. The coming weeks will test how both Dhaka and New Delhi manage the situation amid domestic and regional sensitivities.

A mobile court sentenced two individuals, including a Dhaka University student, to 15 days in jail for attempting to sit as proxies during Jahangirnagar University’s 2025–26 admission test. The incident occurred on December 22 during the third shift of the ‘B’ unit exam at the university’s School and College Center, where invigilators caught one suspect red-handed. The detained student, identified as Md. Ehsanul Haque Jisan, a student of Urdu at Dhaka University, confessed to taking the test on behalf of applicant Rafid Hossain Sajid. Following interrogation, university authorities also detained Sajid. Jahangirnagar University’s Proctor, Professor Dr. A.K.M. Rashidul Alam, confirmed that both were handed over to the mobile court, which imposed a 15-day imprisonment. The university administration has canceled Sajid’s previous test results and permanently blocked his registration to prevent future participation in JU admission exams. The incident underscores the institution’s strict stance against academic fraud and highlights growing concerns over proxy testing in competitive university admissions.

An Israeli drone attack in southern Lebanon’s Sidon district killed three people on Monday, according to Lebanon’s state news agency NNA. The strike targeted a vehicle on the Aktnit–Quneitra road and was described by Lebanese officials as a new violation of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon. Israel has not issued any immediate comment on the incident. Tensions have been escalating along the border in recent weeks, with reports of near-daily Israeli air raids inside Lebanon. Israel claims its operations are aimed at Hezbollah fighters and infrastructure. The two countries reached a ceasefire in November 2024 after more than a year of cross-border clashes linked to the Gaza conflict, which left over 4,000 dead and 17,000 injured. Despite the truce, Israeli forces have reportedly maintained positions at five border posts that were due to be vacated in January, raising concerns among Lebanese authorities and international observers about the durability of the ceasefire and the risk of renewed hostilities.

Bangladesh Bank has directed that the shares of five Shariah-based banks undergoing merger be valued at zero, citing negative net asset values. The affected institutions—First Security Islami Bank, Social Islami Bank, Global Islami Bank, Union Bank, and EXIM Bank—received official letters instructing them to nullify their paid-up capital under the Bank Resolution Ordinance 2025. The central bank stated that the decision followed an assessment showing each bank’s equity had turned negative. Executive Director and spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan confirmed that the order does not require approval from the Dhaka or Chittagong stock exchanges or the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies. Governor Ahsan H. Mansur earlier explained that shareholders would not receive stakes in the newly formed Combined Islami Bank PLC, as each share’s net asset value had fallen between Tk 350 and Tk 420 below zero. The move effectively wipes out shareholder equity, leaving investors facing heavy losses. Trading of the banks’ shares remains suspended, while the newly licensed Combined Islami Bank PLC begins operations as the country’s largest state-owned Shariah-compliant bank.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has reiterated that its missile program is purely defensive and not open for negotiation, dismissing external criticism over its growing arsenal. Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei stated at a weekly press briefing that the program was designed solely to deter attacks and protect Iran’s territorial integrity. The statement follows heightened Israeli alarm after the June 12-day conflict, during which Israel labeled Iran’s ballistic and nuclear programs as major threats. Tehran retaliated with missile and drone strikes on Israeli cities following what it described as unprecedented Israeli assaults that killed over 1,000 people in Iran. Israel, in turn, reported more than 50 Iranian missile strikes that left 28 dead. According to NBC, Iran is now rebuilding and expanding its missile production capacity, prompting fears that Israel could launch preemptive strikes to disrupt these efforts. The United States briefly joined Israel in targeting Iranian nuclear facilities before a ceasefire was declared, underscoring the fragile regional balance and the potential for renewed escalation.