Ganosamhati Andolon chief coordinator Jonayed Saki has declared that the people of Bangladesh will not accept any attempt to establish religious fascism. Speaking at a protest rally in front of the National Press Club on Monday, Saki accused reactionary forces of trying to destabilize the country and derail the upcoming elections through violence and intimidation, including the recent killing of activist Usman Hadi.

Saki criticized the government for remaining silent on attacks against media outlets and for failing to arrest Hadi’s killers. He warned that if justice is not ensured, the government must be held accountable. The activist leader also condemned the arson attack in Lakshmipur that killed a child, linking such incidents to broader attempts to spread fear and political instability.

He further alleged that some groups are attempting to become “new fascists” and that neighboring India’s rise of religious nationalism could influence similar trends in Bangladesh. Saki reaffirmed his party’s commitment to fighting fascism and defending democratic reform and justice.

Bangladesh Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul announced that the trial for the murder of Sharif Osman Hadi will be conducted in a Speedy Trial Tribunal and completed within 90 days after the police report is submitted. The statement was made on Monday through his verified Facebook page, citing Section 10 of the Speedy Trial Tribunal Act, 2002, which allows for expedited proceedings in serious criminal cases.

The announcement follows growing public and organizational pressure for swift justice. The group Inquilab Moncho held a press conference in Dhaka’s Shahbagh area, urging the inclusion of international investigative agencies such as the FBI and Scotland Yard in the probe. Its member secretary, Abdullah Al Jaber, emphasized the need for transparency and international cooperation to ensure accountability.

Legal experts note that the decision to use a fast-track tribunal underscores the government’s intent to deliver justice efficiently, though concerns remain about maintaining due process. The case is expected to draw significant attention as it proceeds under heightened public scrutiny.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that the Bangladesh he fought for—a free, sovereign, and democratic nation—no longer exists in its intended form. Speaking at a protest meeting titled “Bangladesh Under Mob Violence,” organized by the Editors’ Council and NOAB in Dhaka, Fakhrul warned that attacks on the press are direct assaults on democracy itself and the spirit of the July Revolution.

He argued that the right to think and speak freely is under threat, calling the situation dangerous not only for journalists but for all citizens. Fakhrul urged all pro-democracy groups to unite beyond party boundaries to resist what he described as growing authoritarianism. Editors and journalists attending the event pledged to defend press freedom and oppose organized violence.

The remarks come amid increasing concerns about media suppression and political polarization in Bangladesh, with opposition leaders framing the issue as a broader struggle for democratic survival.

National Citizen Party (NCP) Khulna divisional head and central labor wing organizer Motaleb Shikdar was shot by unidentified assailants near Gazi Medical College Hospital in Khulna city late Monday morning. The bullet reportedly entered through the side of his ear and exited, causing heavy bleeding. He was first taken to Khulna Medical College Hospital and later transferred to a private imaging center for a CT scan due to his deteriorating condition. Doctors have since confirmed that he is now out of danger.

Police from Sonadanga station confirmed the incident and said an investigation is underway to identify the attackers. NCP leaders, including former district coordinator Sajidul Islam Bappy and joint secretary SM Saif Mostafiz, expressed concern over the attack, linking it to rising political tensions ahead of the interim election. The party has demanded swift justice and enhanced security for its organizers.

Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area, while local residents have urged stronger policing to prevent further political violence in Khulna.

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin will send New Year and Christmas greetings to U.S. President Donald Trump. Putin’s aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters that the gesture reflects diplomatic civility, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions. He added that Moscow expects all parties involved in the Ukraine peace process to adhere to previously agreed terms.

The announcement follows earlier comments from Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, who said that any such greeting would be formally communicated by the Kremlin. Russian media also reported that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently extended holiday greetings to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, signaling a modest continuation of diplomatic exchanges.

Observers note that the exchange of greetings underscores the persistence of diplomatic communication between Washington and Moscow despite strained relations. However, analysts remain cautious about whether such symbolic gestures can influence the broader geopolitical landscape, particularly as Trump’s 20-point peace plan discussions continue in Florida.

A journalist and five student activists from Sreemangal, Moulvibazar, have reported receiving death and abduction threats through Facebook Messenger. The threats, allegedly sent from an account named 'No Caption', mentioned multiple individuals and outlined a plan for sequential killings. The victims, including journalist Md. Ehsanul Haque (Ehsan Bin Mujahir) and student leader Md. Mujahidul Islam, filed a general diary (GD) at Sreemangal Police Station on Sunday night.

Ehsanul Haque, known for reporting on corruption and anti-drug issues, said he has faced similar threats and attacks before, expressing frustration over the lack of progress in earlier investigations. The Sreemangal Press Club strongly condemned the incident, calling it an attack on press freedom and demanding swift legal action. Police confirmed receipt of the GD and stated that digital evidence and screenshots are being verified.

The incident has sparked concern among local journalists and activists, highlighting growing risks for those involved in advocacy and investigative reporting in regional Bangladesh. Authorities have pledged to identify the perpetrators and ensure security for the victims.

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal-1 has scheduled January 4 for the next hearing on the formation of charges against Salman F Rahman, former adviser to ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and former law minister Anisul Huq. The two are accused of crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the July Revolution. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder and assisted by Justice Shafiul Alam Mahmud, issued the order after hearing arguments from the prosecution.

Chief Prosecutor Tazul Islam presented the allegations, which include ordering curfews, directing ruling party affiliates to suppress protests, and authorizing lethal force that led to civilian deaths and injuries. The prosecution has charged both men under the doctrine of superior responsibility, citing their positions of authority during the unrest.

Defense counsel Mansurul Haque requested additional time to respond, which the court granted. The accused, detained since August 13 following the fall of the Awami League government, remain in custody as the tribunal prepares for the next stage of proceedings.

The Bangladesh Garment Buying House Association (BGBA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday night at Uttara Club in Dhaka. The event was attended by BGBA members and key guests including founding president Kaiyum Reza Chowdhury, Director General of the Department of Textiles Md. Shahidul Islam, NBR First Secretary Shahriar Hasan, and Adnan Masud, AMD of United Commercial Bank PLC. The meeting began with a moment of silence for the late Sharif Osman Hadi, followed by prayers led by BGBA Treasurer Fazlul Haque Saeed.

Presided over by BGBA President Mofazzal Hossain Pavel, the AGM reviewed the association’s 2024–25 financial audit and discussed progress on previous initiatives. Secretary General Md. Zakir Hossain presented the annual report, while members raised questions and offered recommendations for organizational improvement. Pavel noted that after a High Court ruling, multiple AGMs had been consolidated in 2024, and the 2025 session marked a return to the regular calendar cycle. He expressed optimism for continued unity and thanked all members, committees, and donors for their support.

Cumilla district has recorded the highest number of expatriate voter registrations in Bangladesh ahead of the 13th National Parliament election and referendum. According to the Election Commission, 54,545 expatriates from Cumilla have registered through the 'Postal Vote BD' app, placing the district first among 64 nationwide. Dhaka ranks second. Registration began on November 19 and will continue until December 25, marking the first use of an IT-supported postal ballot system for overseas voters.

Election officials report that of the total applicants, 52,835 are men and 1,710 are women, with 8,755 registrations already approved. Cumilla has around 4.99 million total voters across 11 constituencies. The district’s large expatriate population—over 764,000 workers sent abroad since 2015—contributes nearly 9% of Bangladesh’s overseas workforce and about $100 million in monthly remittances. Officials expect total expatriate voter registrations to reach 60,000–70,000 before the deadline.

Authorities believe postal ballots could influence constituency results if participation is high. Ballots will be mailed to registered voters abroad, who will return them by post for counting on election day afternoon.

Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has proposed building a ‘crocodile-enclosed detention center’ for Palestinian prisoners to prevent escapes, according to Israeli Channel 13. The proposed site lies near Hamat Gader in northern Israel, close to the occupied Syrian Golan Heights and the Jordanian border, an area that already hosts a crocodile farm and a zoo.

Ben-Gvir reportedly presented the idea during a security assessment meeting with Prison Service Commissioner Kobi Yaakobi. The Israeli Knesset is also expected to vote on a separate bill he introduced, which seeks to impose the death penalty on Palestinians accused of planning or participating in attacks against Israel.

Human rights groups in Israel and Palestine have condemned the proposal as inhumane and politically provocative. Over 9,300 Palestinians, including women and children, are currently detained in Israeli prisons. The plan emerges amid ongoing violence in Gaza, where more than 70,900 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023, according to rights monitors.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) continues to capture global football fans’ attention as key group-stage matches air live this weekend. Broadcasters have lined up several high-profile fixtures, including Mali vs Zambia, South Africa vs Angola, and Egypt vs Zimbabwe, offering fans a packed schedule of continental action. Matches will be streamed across major sports networks and digital platforms such as FanCode and Bet365.

The tournament, known for its passionate crowds and unpredictable outcomes, remains Africa’s most prestigious football competition. Sports analysts note that this year’s edition features a strong mix of emerging talents and established stars, with several teams aiming to secure early qualification for the knockout rounds. Broadcasters report strong viewership from both African and international audiences.

As the group stage intensifies, attention will turn to powerhouse nations like Egypt and South Africa, whose performances could shape the tournament’s later stages. Fans worldwide are expected to tune in for the high-stakes matches leading into the new year.

A 22-year-old street vendor named Shahin Mia was allegedly beaten to death in Nasirnagar, Brahmanbaria, after being accused of theft. According to police and family sources, the incident occurred on Sunday afternoon in the Madhyapara area, where Shahin was forcibly confined and assaulted by several villagers. His body was later taken to the district hospital morgue for autopsy.

Family members claim that Shahin had been wrongly accused of stealing a silver chain belonging to a local resident’s relative. They allege that Arfat Ali and his nephews led the attack. Police have recovered the body and initiated an investigation to determine the cause of death and identify those involved. Inspector Krishna Lal Ghosh confirmed that legal action will follow based on the post-mortem report and family complaint.

The incident has sparked local outrage and renewed concerns over mob justice in rural Bangladesh. Authorities have urged residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands as investigations continue.

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) conducted two coordinated operations under the Dighaltari Border Outpost (BOP) in Lalmonirhat, seizing Indian cattle and various smuggled goods. The raids, carried out by the 15 BGB Battalion, led to the confiscation of two Indian cows, cumin, sugar, snacks, a blanket, and a bicycle, with a total seizure value of approximately BDT 281,680.

According to BGB officials, one suspect fled toward India after being challenged by patrol members near Namatari on November 21. The seized items included 12 kilograms of cumin, 38 kilograms of sugar, and other goods. Lieutenant Colonel Mehedi Imam, commanding officer of the Lalmonirhat Battalion, stated that the BGB remains vigilant to prevent smuggling and drug trafficking, emphasizing increased intelligence surveillance and patrols in sensitive border zones.

Authorities confirmed that legal proceedings are underway to identify and prosecute those involved in cross-border smuggling. The operation reflects BGB’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal trade and maintain security along Bangladesh’s northern frontier.

Mohammad Motaleb Shikdar, convenor of the National Citizen Party’s (NCP) Khulna divisional committee, was shot and critically injured on Monday, December 22, 2025. The incident occurred around noon, and he was immediately taken to Khulna Medical College Hospital for treatment. The attack has sparked widespread concern within the party and among local residents.

According to NCP joint chief organizer Dr. Mahmuda Mitu, who confirmed the news on social media, Shikdar was targeted in a sudden shooting. Law enforcement agencies have begun an investigation to determine the motive and identify those involved. Police officials are preparing an official statement regarding the incident.

Senior NCP leaders have strongly condemned the attack, urging authorities to ensure a swift and transparent investigation. The incident highlights growing political tensions in the region, with observers warning that such violence could further destabilize local political activities if not addressed promptly.

Bangladesh has launched a nationwide ‘Vote Car’ campaign aimed at raising voter awareness and participation ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and 2026 referendum. The campaign officially began Monday afternoon at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, inaugurated virtually by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus through a video message.

The initiative will see specially branded vehicles travel across all 64 districts and over 300 upazilas, promoting civic engagement and voter education. Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, and Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed attended the launch event. Officials emphasized that the campaign seeks to strengthen democratic participation and ensure a transparent electoral process.

Observers note that the ‘Vote Car’ project reflects the interim government’s effort to restore public confidence in electoral institutions. As the election approaches, authorities hope the outreach drive will address voter apathy and misinformation, encouraging higher turnout in both the general election and the referendum.