US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing its handling of Covid-19, failure to reform, and perceived political bias. The move, announced on his first day back in office, revives a decision he initiated during his previous term but was reversed by President Biden. The US, which contributed nearly 20% of WHO’s $6.8 billion annual budget in 2023, risks destabilizing the agency’s funding. Trump hinted at a possible return, saying, “We’ll see what happens.”

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.

The interim government has abolished the tax on marriage registration, as announced by Legal Adviser Asif Nazrul during a press briefing at the Ministry of Law on Tuesday, January 21. He called the tax unreasonable and confirmed its removal. Additionally, the term “virgin” on marriage forms has been replaced with “unmarried” to make it more respectful for women. Asif Nazrul emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing such issues and hinted at further reforms to improve the legal framework surrounding personal and societal matters.

Dr. Asif Nazrul, Legal, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Advisor, announced that over 2,500 ghost and politically motivated harassment cases across 25 districts will be withdrawn by February. These cases involve millions of accused individuals and include charges under laws like the Explosives Act and Arms Act. Additionally, all cases under the Cyber Security Act will be withdrawn, with efforts to start within seven days. The government also plans reforms to the Cyber Security Law and changes in the judge appointment process to ensure impartiality.

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.

The government will provide financial assistance to the families of 834 martyrs and 12,147 injured individuals from the July uprising through savings certificates instead of direct allowances. Martyrs’ families will receive certificates worth BDT 3 million each, while injured individuals will receive BDT 100,000 to 500,000 based on severity. Monthly profits from these certificates will begin in February. The Ministry of Liberation War Affairs will oversee the initiative, which costs BDT 6.38 billion. Additional funds are allocated for medical services and alternative arrangements for objectors.

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.

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met Elon Musk in Washington as part of a high-level delegation, discussing trade ties and welcoming U.S. businesses to China. Musk is set to join the Trump administration as co-head of the Department of Government Efficiency. Han also met Vice President-elect J.D. Vance to discuss bilateral and international relations. Emphasizing shared interests, Han pledged reforms and an improved business climate, aiming for stable, healthy, and sustainable U.S.-China cooperation.

Rumors about cricketer and former MP Mashrafe Bin Mortaza’s death in a Dubai car accident are circulating widely on social media. However, the Rumor Scanner team confirmed these claims are entirely false and baseless. No credible domestic or international sources have reported on Mashrafe’s presence in Dubai or his alleged death. While he hasn’t appeared publicly since August 2024, he was expected to play for Sylhet Strikers in the BPL but is currently sidelined due to fitness issues. The death rumor holds no truth.

A UK parliamentary group has withdrawn its report criticizing Bangladesh’s interim government, citing inaccuracies and bias. Allegedly favoring ousted PM Sheikh Hasina’s administration, the report faced backlash from experts and MPs, including Rupa Huq, who called it conspiratorial. Claims of legal weaponization and Islamist empowerment were based on questionable data from a Delhi think tank. The report is now under review, and APPG will not pursue further action. Tulip Siddiq, Hasina’s niece, resigned over related controversies.

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.

TikTok resumed operations in the U.S. hours after shutting down, following President-elect Trump’s pledge to delay enforcement of a law banning the app. Trump promised an executive order to secure TikTok’s future, allowing its 170 million U.S. users to regain access. ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, is exploring solutions, including a joint venture with U.S. ownership. Despite relief, the app’s long-term future remains uncertain due to bipartisan national security concerns and challenges in resolving ownership issues.