East West University organized a colorful orientation program for new students of the Spring 2026 semester on January 22, 2026, at the Manzur Elahi Auditorium in Aftabnagar, Dhaka. The event aimed to familiarize newcomers with the university’s code of conduct, rules, and available facilities. Professor Dr. Mohammed Farashuddin, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees and former Governor of Bangladesh Bank, attended as the chief guest, while Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Shams Rahman presided over the ceremony.

Speakers highlighted the university’s mission and values, emphasizing the importance of developing skilled, ethical, and responsible leadership among students. They urged the new students to focus on both academic excellence and personal development to become capable human resources and contribute positively to national progress. The event was also attended by Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Ashik Mosaddik and Treasurer Air Commodore (Retd.) Ishfaq Ilahi Choudhury.

To make the event more engaging, the Student Welfare Department organized a ‘Club Fair’ featuring 23 student-run clubs. Each club showcased its activities and initiatives to encourage new students to participate in co-curricular and creative endeavors alongside their studies.

Three suspects have been arrested by Rapid Action Battalion (RAB)-11 in connection with the killing of college student Ashraful Islam in Raipur, Lakshmipur. The arrests were made late Friday night in Bhulta Gausia area of Rupganj, Narayanganj, and announced on Saturday by RAB-11 Noakhali Camp Commander Md. Muhit Kabir Serniabat. The detainees are Shakil Bepari, 23, Sohag Bepari, 19, and Moktar Patwari, 20, all residents of Charbanshi village under North Charbanshi Union in Raipur.

According to RAB, Ashraful, a final-year degree student at Raipur Rustam Ali College, was attacked on January 14 by local drug users and teenage gang members led by Nahid Bepari and Shahin Bepari. He was severely injured and later died while undergoing treatment in Dhaka. His father, Azizul Haque, filed a murder case on January 16 naming 11 accused and 16 unidentified persons. The attack reportedly stemmed from Shahin’s suspicion that Ashraful had informed police about his earlier drug arrest.

RAB stated that the arrested suspects have been handed over to Raipur police, and operations are continuing to capture others involved in the killing.

Indian actor and social media personality Kamal R Khan, known as KRK, was arrested by Mumbai Police on the night of January 23. The arrest followed his January 22 post on X (formerly Twitter) where he commented on Bangladesh’s reported refusal to play in the T20 World Cup in India. Police stated that the arrest was linked to a shooting allegation, but many social media users claimed he was targeted for criticizing India’s attitude toward Bangladesh and Pakistan.

The controversy arose after reports that Bangladesh’s government expressed reluctance to send its team to India for the tournament due to security and political concerns. The International Cricket Council has not yet announced any change in venue. KRK’s detention has reignited debate over the intersection of cricket and politics in India and the limits of free expression.

KRK, born in Deoband, Uttar Pradesh, began his career in the early 2000s as a screenwriter before acting in films such as “Deshdrohi” and appearing in the reality show “Bigg Boss.” He currently runs a YouTube channel and works as a film critic.

Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), visited the grave of his younger brother Arafat Rahman Koko in Banani, Dhaka, on the occasion of Koko’s 11th death anniversary. He was accompanied by his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, daughter Zaima Rahman, Koko’s wife Syeda Shamila Rahman, and several party leaders and activists. The visit was confirmed through a post with photographs on the BNP’s official Facebook page on Saturday afternoon.

Arafat Rahman Koko, the younger son of late President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, died of cardiac arrest in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on January 24, 2015. Born on August 12, 1969, Koko served as a member of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s advisory council from 2003 to 2005 and also chaired the Old DOHS Club.

He was arrested along with his mother in 2007 during the army-backed caretaker government and later went abroad for medical treatment. Koko lived in Malaysia with his family until his death, leaving behind his wife and two daughters.

Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and candidate for Dhaka-11, has accused the BNP alliance of using so-called 'family cards' and 'farmer cards' as a strategy to buy votes. Speaking to journalists during his campaign in Shahjadpur on Saturday, he claimed that these cards were part of a deceptive process aimed at misleading voters. He added that people were not responding positively to such promises, as they had heard similar false assurances before.

Nihad Islam further alleged that BNP alliance candidates were violating the electoral code of conduct by hanging posters on electric wires and obstructing the campaigns of the 10-party alliance. He said NCP leaders were show-caused by the Election Commission for referendum campaigning, while no action was taken against BNP candidates for similar violations. He also pledged to address water, gas, and drug-related problems in Dhaka-11 if elected.

He urged young voters to guard polling centers and warned that if the Election Commission failed to remain neutral, his party would take strong action against it.

The Bangladesh Navy conducted a special operation early Saturday, January 24, 2026, in the Naytongpara area of Teknaf municipality, Cox’s Bazar, recovering crystal methamphetamine (‘ice’) valued at Tk 6 crore, along with firearms and ammunition. Two individuals, identified as Junaid alias Munna and his Rohingya associate Hamid Ullah, were arrested on charges of involvement in drug trafficking. The Navy’s media cell confirmed the operation later that day.

According to a Navy statement, the raid was part of ongoing security and anti-crime operations ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. Acting on a tip-off, a specialized naval team searched the suspects’ homes, seizing 1,250 grams of crystal meth, 126 yaba tablets, one single-barrel gun, two walkie-talkies, eight local weapons, and 47 rounds of live ammunition. The detainees reportedly admitted that the items were stored for sale through Rohingya intermediaries.

Following the operation, the seized drugs and weapons, along with the arrested suspects, were handed over to Teknaf Police Station for legal action. The Navy continues intensified patrols in coastal and border areas to ensure election-time security.

The Election Commission has issued a show-cause notice to Sarjis Alam, the North Region Chief Coordinator of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and a candidate of the 10-party alliance for the Panchagarh-1 constituency, for violating the electoral code of conduct. The notice was confirmed on Saturday, January 24, by the returning officer of Panchagarh-1, which includes Panchagarh Sadar, Tentulia, and Atwari.

According to the report, Sarjis Alam was accused of using arches, billboards, and banners in connection with a public rally organized for the Jamaat Ameer. The Election Commission considered these actions a breach of the election code of conduct.

The notice requires Sarjis Alam to explain his actions to the Election Commission, though further details on possible penalties or responses were not provided in the report.

BNP has announced plans to gather one million people at a rally in Chattogram’s Polo Ground on Sunday to welcome party chairperson Tarique Rahman, who is visiting the port city after 21 years. Rahman is scheduled to arrive on Saturday evening, stay overnight at a local hotel, attend a student seminar Sunday morning, and then address the rally as chief guest before traveling to Feni for another event.

Party leaders from Chattogram city, north and south districts, Cox’s Bazar, and the three hill districts are coordinating the event, which they hope will boost BNP’s prospects in Chattogram’s 16 parliamentary constituencies ahead of the 13th national election. Extensive preparations include a 100-foot stage, sound systems, and designated security zones. The city has been decorated with banners and billboards welcoming Rahman.

Law enforcement agencies have confirmed a three-tier security plan involving police, RAB, and army personnel. BNP leaders say the rally aims to be a memorable show of strength, with thousands of activists already arriving from surrounding districts.

An unusual political scenario has emerged in Lakshmipur-1 (Ramganj) constituency, where a father and son are supporting rival parties ahead of the upcoming election. Mahbub Alam, central joint convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and elder brother of former information adviser Mahfuz Alam, is contesting under the 'Shapla Koli' symbol representing a ten-party alliance. His father, Azizur Rahman Bacchu Molla, general secretary of the BNP’s Ichhapur Union unit, is actively campaigning for BNP candidate Shahadat Hossain Selim under the 'Dhaner Shish' symbol.

On Friday, Bacchu Molla joined several street meetings across Ichhapur Union, urging voters to support the BNP candidate. He stated that politics is a matter of ideology and belief, and personal relations cannot alter his political stance, though he continues to pray for his son as a father. Mahbub Alam acknowledged awareness of the situation but declined to comment.

The contrasting political positions within the same family have become a major topic of discussion in Ramganj and on social media, with local analysts saying it has added a new dimension to the constituency’s electoral politics.

Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Ali Riaz stated that the government’s campaign supporting a ‘Yes’ vote in the upcoming referendum is legally sound and beyond question. He made the remarks on Saturday afternoon at a divisional meeting held at the Mendibag Sports Complex in Sylhet, aimed at motivating voters. Senior government officials from the Sylhet division attended the event.

Riaz emphasized that the government’s position aligns with legal, moral, and international standards. He said the interim government seeks to foster a political culture where major national decisions are made through dialogue among all political parties, and that the July Charter will help create such an environment. Addressing misinformation, he noted that false claims were being spread about the charter, including allegations that it omits religious phrases or contradicts the spirit of the Liberation War.

Special Assistant Monir Haider added that the referendum aims to fulfill the core aspirations of the Liberation War and called for broad public participation. Other speakers described the referendum as a key step toward strengthening democratic processes.

The month-long Jatra Registration Festival, organized by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and managed by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, concluded on January 23, 2026, with the staging of the historical Jatra play ‘General Osmani’. The play was performed at the Experimental Theatre Hall of the Academy by its repertory Jatra unit. Written by M A Majid and directed by Tanvir Nahid Khan, the production focused on the leadership, strategy, and uncompromising patriotism of Colonel M A G Osmani, the Commander-in-Chief of the Liberation War. The closing ceremony was attended by Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki as chief guest, with Secretary Md. Mofidur Rahman and Director General Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed also present.

The festival, which began on December 1, 2025, featured 36 Jatra performances by 35 registered troupes from across the country. Veteran Jatra artist Anwar Hossain received a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to the art form. Farooki noted that ‘General Osmani’ was created within seven days and will be staged in all 64 districts in March 2026, marking a renewed focus on national stories in traditional Jatra performances.

Ticket proceeds from the festival were distributed to participating troupes, and each performance was evaluated by a jury panel.

BNP-nominated candidate for Dhaka-6 constituency, Engineer Ishraq Hossain, appealed to residents to vote for him in the upcoming national election on February 12. Speaking at a street rally in Wari’s 38th ward on January 24, he said he had dedicated his life to the welfare of the nation and wanted the opportunity to serve the people. He described himself as a son of the area and a brother to the residents, asking for their support to work for them.

During his campaign speech, Hossain highlighted severe local problems including gas shortages, poor road conditions, and inadequate waste management that have made daily life difficult for residents. He pledged to prioritize solutions to these issues if elected, including addressing environmental pollution, illegal structures, and traffic congestion caused by unregulated parking. He also mentioned that bus route rationalization and improved transport planning were essential for easing congestion.

Hossain concluded by recalling his participation in past political movements and expressed hope to build a livable city together with the people. He also offered prayers for his late father and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman is scheduled to visit Chauddagram in Comilla on Sunday, January 25, 2026, to address an election campaign rally for the first time in the area. The visit was confirmed by BNP’s Comilla divisional organizing secretary Selim Bhuiyan. Ahead of the event, BNP Chairperson’s adviser Aminur Rashid Yasin inspected the high school field in Chauddagram, where the rally will take place, noting that preparations were nearly complete and security measures were active around the clock.

Local BNP leaders described the upcoming rally as potentially the largest in the region’s history. Kamrul Huda, BNP’s candidate for Comilla-11 and president of Chauddagram Upazila BNP, said they were preparing for a turnout of over one hundred thousand people. He added that local activists were highly enthusiastic about Tarique Rahman’s first visit to Chauddagram. Volunteer leader Khorshed Alam stated that residents from all walks of life were eager to see the BNP leader.

According to the report, Tarique Rahman will deliver speeches at three public meetings in Comilla on Sunday, beginning with Chauddagram after completing rallies in Chattogram and Feni.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman declared his readiness to sacrifice for the nation like martyr Abu Sayeed, emphasizing that not an inch of the country’s land would be compromised. He made the remarks on Saturday morning after visiting Abu Sayeed’s grave and meeting his family in Babonpur village of Pirganj upazila, Rangpur. Rahman stated that if Jamaat comes to power, the party will prioritize justice for Abu Sayeed and all those killed in the July uprising.

He was accompanied by Rangpur-6 candidate Maulana Nurul Amin, Jamaat Assistant Secretary General Abdul Halim, National Citizen Party member secretary Akhtar Hossain, and Islami Chhatra Shibir Secretary General Md. Sigbatullah. Rahman reaffirmed Jamaat’s commitment to building a corruption-free, terror-free, and humane Bangladesh where people of all faiths and backgrounds can live peacefully. He also stressed national unity, noting that a ten-party alliance has been formed to contest all 300 constituencies through mutual understanding.

Rahman demanded immediate justice for the slain martyrs and pledged lifelong support for their families before departing for Palashbari in Gaibandha.

Thousands of women participated in an election rally organized by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami in Ullapara under the Sirajganj-4 constituency on Saturday, January 24, 2026. The event took place at the Government Akbar Ali College field, where nearly one-third of the ground was occupied by female attendees. The rally was part of a campaign organized by the ten-party alliance, drawing a large turnout of both female Jamaat activists and general women from the area.

According to the report, the gathering was arranged by the Ullapara upazila unit of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. A participant named Afroza Parvin told the newspaper that she joined the rally with hopes of building a new Bangladesh. She, who was assigned as a polling agent for Jamaat’s parliamentary candidate Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan, expressed her belief that if Jamaat comes to power, it will ensure a safer environment for women, allowing them to move freely and work securely both at home and outside.

The strong female presence at the rally highlighted Jamaat’s effort to mobilize women voters ahead of the upcoming election.