Nearly 897,000 Law Enforcement Personnel to Be Deployed in National Election: Home Affairs Adviser
Dhaka, 20 January 2026 – A total of 897,117 members of law enforcement and security forces will be deployed across the country to ensure a free, fair, neutral, and peaceful 13th National Parliamentary Election, Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said on Sunday. He made the announcement while briefing journalists after the 20th meeting of the Advisory Council Committee on Law and Order at the Ministry of Home Affairs in the Secretariat. According to the adviser, the deployment will include:
Bangladesh Army: 100,000
Bangladesh Navy: 5,000
Bangladesh Air Force: 3,730 (including 1,250 for ground operations)
Bangladesh Police: 149,443
Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP): 576,314
Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB): 37,453
Bangladesh Coast Guard: 3,585
Rapid Action Battalion (RAB): 7,700
Fire Service and Civil Defence (support services): 13,390
He said law enforcement forces would be deployed in two phases nationwide, with all election-related security arrangements coordinated under the authority of the respective Returning Officers. A circular regarding the deployment was issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 6 January 2026, he added. The adviser stated that there will be 42,761 polling centres across the country, of which:
8,780 are classified as highly important,
16,548 as important, and
17,433 as general centres.
To enhance transparency and accountability, 25,000 body-worn cameras will be used by police personnel at highly important and important polling centres. In addition, CCTV cameras will be installed at every polling centre. For the first time, comprehensive election-specific training has been conducted for all law enforcement agencies, which will conclude on 20 January 2026. Another new feature of this election will be the use of 418 drones by various law enforcement agencies for surveillance and security monitoring. Dog squads will also be deployed to strengthen security. The adviser highlighted that the most effective tool in maintaining law and order during the election will be the “Election Security App 2026”, developed by the National Telecommunication Monitoring Centre (NTMC). The app will connect law enforcement agencies, Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, and the central control room of the Ministry of Home Affairs, enabling real-time reporting and rapid response to any law-and-order incidents. He further said the Bangladesh Air Force would provide helicopter support to transport election materials and officials to remote and hard-to-reach areas. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to conduct intensive patrols for four days prior to the election, with special emphasis on riverine, char, and other inaccessible regions. The Home Affairs Adviser warned that any attempt to disrupt or influence the election process would be dealt with strictly and decisively by the interim government. Members of the Advisory Council Committee on Law and Order were present at the meeting.
Bangladesh Center for Air and Space Power Studies (BCASPS) Inaugurated
Dhaka, 19 January 2026 – The Bangladesh Center for Air and Space Power Studies (BCASPS) was officially inaugurated, marking a significant milestone in Bangladesh’s strategic and intellectual engagement with air and space power. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, BBP, OSP, GUP, ndc, psc, who attended as the chief guest and formally launched both the center and its official website, www.bcasps.org . Speaking at the ceremony, the Air Chief expressed strong confidence and optimism about BCASPS as an independent think tank dedicated to research on air and space power. He emphasized that effective control and protection of airspace are fundamental pillars of national sovereignty and stability. In today’s evolving strategic environment, he noted, developing a comprehensive and integrated understanding of both air and space domains is essential to safeguard Bangladesh’s sovereignty, national security, and long-term development interests. The vision of BCASPS was presented at the event as: “To establish itself as a center of excellence that promotes national awareness of air and space power and provides policy-oriented advice in support of Bangladesh’s national interests and the capability development of the Bangladesh Air Force.” The establishment of BCASPS was described as a timely and forward-looking initiative, carrying major significance for national security, the Armed Forces of Bangladesh, and particularly the Bangladesh Air Force. It represents a notable milestone in strengthening Bangladesh’s strategic thinking and intellectual engagement in the fields of air and space power. At the inauguration, a keynote paper titled “Modernizing Airpower in a Changing Indo-Pacific: Strategic Rationale, Technological Shifts, and National Security Implications for Bangladesh” was presented by Professor Shahab Enam Khan, a distinguished researcher from Jahangirnagar University. His presentation highlighted the evolving regional security environment and the importance of technological modernization in strengthening Bangladesh’s airpower capabilities. The ceremony was attended by Principal Staff Officers from Air Headquarters, representatives of relevant ministries, the Vice Chancellor of AAUB, the Chairmen of FSDS and OCPASS, the Director General of BIMRAD, academics and researchers, members of the BCASPS Governing Body, and other senior military and civilian officials. The inauguration of BCASPS is being viewed as a landmark step toward fostering strategic research, policy dialogue, and informed decision-making in air and space power, reinforcing Bangladesh’s preparedness to meet future security challenges.
Bangladesh Navy Adds New Strength with Locally Built LCT-101 to Its Fleet
Dhaka, 18 January 2026 – As part of the Bangladesh Navy’s modernization drive and efforts to enhance its three-dimensional operational capability, a new Landing Craft Tank (LCT-101) has been launched after being built using indigenous technology at Khulna Shipyard Limited under the supervision of the Navy. The launching ceremony of LCT-101 was held today at Khulna Shipyard, where the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral M. Nazmul Hasan, attended as the chief guest and officially inaugurated the vessel. The LCT-101 is expected to play a significant role in coastal and amphibious operations, as well as in disaster response and humanitarian assistance missions. The newly built landing craft is capable of carrying six main battle tanks, or twelve armored personnel carriers (APCs), or eighteen military vehicles at a time, enhancing the Navy’s logistical and operational mobility. Located on the banks of the Rupsha River, Khulna Shipyard Limited is a state-owned, internationally recognized shipbuilding organization operated under the supervision of the Bangladesh Navy. Over the years, it has developed strong capabilities in constructing both naval and commercial vessels by following ISO standards, working under international classification societies, and utilizing modern infrastructure with a skilled workforce. The shipyard has now become a trusted name in Bangladesh’s defense industry. The successful construction and launching of LCT-101 using local expertise demonstrate a major milestone in strengthening the operational power of the Bangladesh Navy. It also reflects the growing technological advancement of the country’s shipbuilding industry and its capacity to support national defense through indigenous production. Officials said the initiative to build three LCTs at Khulna Shipyard marks a significant step toward self-reliance in naval ship construction and reinforces Bangladesh’s long-term vision for a modern, capable, and sustainable naval force.
BGB’s 104th Recruit Batch Passes Out with Record Number of New Members Taking Oath
Dhaka 15 January 2026 – The passing out parade of the 104th Recruit Batch of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) was held on Wednesday at the historic Bir Uttam Mujibur Rahman Parade Ground of the Border Guard Training Centre and College (BGT&C) in Baitul Izzat, Satkania, Chattogram. In a landmark moment in BGB’s history, a record 3,023 new recruits took the oath to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bangladesh. The ceremony was attended as the chief guest by the Adviser to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Agriculture, Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, who reviewed the parade, received the salute, and administered the oath to the newly trained soldiers. Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Nasimul Gani, BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, and the Commandant of BGT&C were also present. The parade formally began with an armed salute to the chief guest, followed by an impressive and disciplined march-past by the recruits. Addressing the new soldiers, the adviser said that the 230-year-old force has evolved into a highly organized, professional, disciplined, and patriotic institution. He highlighted BGB’s crucial role as the “vigilant guardian of the border,” safeguarding the country’s 4,427-kilometre-long border, preventing smuggling, drug trafficking, and human trafficking, assisting civil administration in maintaining law and order, and playing a vital role in disaster response. He emphasized that discipline is the ornament of a soldier’s life, and that honesty, intelligence, loyalty, reliability, courage, and enthusiasm are the foundations of a professional force. He urged the recruits to remain inspired by BGB’s four core values: morale, brotherhood, discipline, and efficiency, and to uphold these principles in every aspect of their service. The adviser praised the outstanding performance of the recruits during the parade and congratulated them on entering a new phase of their lives.
He also awarded and congratulated outstanding performers: Recruit Al Imran (Chest No. 155) for being the best in all subjects, Shafiqul Islam (Chest No. 2769, male) and Lubna Khatun (Chest No. 1515, female) for excellence in physical fitness, Shafikur Rahman Tamim (Chest No. 1347, male) and Nahida Akter (Chest No. 1531, female) for being the best shooters. He noted that although the training institution’s normal capacity is 700–1,000 recruits, it successfully trained 3,023 recruits (2,950 men and 73 women) in the 104th batch under the direct supervision of BGB Headquarters and on the instructions of the interim government, setting a new record in post-independence Bangladesh. The adviser thanked the BGB Director General and all concerned officials for the successful and well-organized training program and the visually impressive parade. He expressed hope for the continued progress of Border Guard Bangladesh and wished the new recruits success in their professional lives. The ceremony concluded with an armed salute to the chief guest, followed by an attractive trick drill by BGB personnel and a colorful band display, which drew admiration from the audience. Senior military and civil officials from Dhaka, Chattogram, and Cox’s Bazar regions, members of the local administration, distinguished guests, and journalists from print and electronic media were present at the event.
BGB Distributes Winter Clothes to Underprivileged People in Dhaka and Rajshahi
Dhaka, 12 January 2026 – Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) carried out humanitarian activities in Dhaka and Rajshahi by distributing winter clothes among hundreds of cold-stricken and underprivileged people as part of its continued commitment to social responsibility. In Dhaka, the Dhaka Battalion (26 BGB), in coordination with Shaheed Zakir Hossain BGB Hospital, Force Support Wing, ICT Battalion, and Dhaka Battalion, distributed winter clothing to 800 needy and cold-affected people in the areas surrounding Nawabganj Park. The distribution program was supervised by Colonel SM Abul Ehsan, PBGMS, PBGMS, PSC, Sector Commander of the Dhaka Sector, who attended the event as the chief guest. Senior officers from Dhaka Battalion, ICT Battalion, Force Support Wing, and Shaheed Zakir Hossain BGB Hospital, along with other BGB members and journalists, were present during the program. Addressing the gathering, the Sector Commander said that BGB not only protects the borders of the country but also plays a leading role in humanitarian assistance during disasters and crises, and such support activities will continue in the future. Meanwhile, in Rajshahi, BGB continued its humanitarian efforts to ease the suffering of people in border areas affected by severe cold and dense fog. On 6 and 9 January 2026, winter clothes and blankets were distributed among underprivileged residents of the border areas under the jurisdiction of Charmojardia, Khanpur, and Sahebnagar BOPs, through joint initiatives of Rajshahi Sector, Border Bank, and Rajshahi Battalion (1 BGB).
Airport Security Exercise 2026 Held at Cox’s Bazar Airport
Dhaka, 8 January 2026 – A full-scale security drill titled “Airport Security Exercise 2026” was conducted at Cox’s Bazar Airport to strengthen preparedness against potential threats, including aircraft hijacking, bomb attacks, and passenger emergencies. The exercise was organized by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) as part of its regular efforts to ensure rapid and effective response to aviation security risks and emergency situations. The drill aimed to assess operational readiness, coordination among stakeholders, and the ability to respond swiftly to complex security incidents. The event was observed by Air Vice Marshal Md. Mostafa Mahmood Siddique, BSP, ndc, AFWC, ACSC, psc, Chairman of CAAB, who attended as the chief guest and monitored the overall conduct of the exercise. The drill involved a Bangladesh Air Force L-410 aircraft, an AW-139 search and rescue helicopter, and personnel from Bangladesh Air Force Base Cox’s Bazar. In addition, multiple civil and security agencies participated, including CAAB, Bangladesh Army, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Cox’s Bazar District Police, Armed Police Battalion (APBN), Ansar, medical teams from the Civil Surgeon’s Office and Cox’s Bazar General Hospital, as well as the Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence. The exercise focused on coordinated response mechanisms, emergency evacuation, medical rescue operations, fire suppression, and law enforcement actions under simulated high-risk scenarios. It is noteworthy that following the July–August mass uprising, members of the Bangladesh Air Force have been continuously deployed at key airports across the country under In Aid to Civil Power to ensure uninterrupted security. Air Force personnel remain on high alert and fully prepared to address any potential security threats at airports nationwide.
Bangladesh Navy Launches Construction of “Ashar Alo Dhaka” for Children with Special Needs
Dhaka, 4 January 2026 – The construction of “Ashar Alo Dhaka,” a specialized institution for children with special needs, was officially inaugurated today at Khilkhet, Dhaka, under the initiative of the Bangladesh Navy Family Welfare Association. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Sharmin S. Murshid, Adviser to the Ministry of Social Welfare of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, as the chief guest. Special guests included Admiral M. Nazmul Hasan, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Bangladesh Navy Family Welfare Association President Nadia Sultana. Senior officials from the Ministry of Social Welfare, Planning Commission, Ministry of Finance, Bangladesh Navy, and various donor organizations were also present, along with military and civilian officials from the Dhaka Naval Area and representatives of the Navy Family Welfare Association and BNP Ladies Club Dhaka. During the event, an overview of the planned institution was presented. Addressing the gathering, Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid called for greater empathy toward children with special needs and emphasized the importance of collective efforts to ensure their education, healthcare, and psychological development. She urged both the government and society at large to actively support the promotion, development, and long-term success of “Ashar Alo Dhaka.”
Built on the guiding principle of “The Right to Special Education,” the institution will provide education and specialized services to children with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other special needs. Facilities will include child-friendly classrooms, a multidisciplinary therapy zone, indoor play areas, a hydrotherapy pool, an outdoor sensory garden, and barrier-free access through ramps and elevators. Every aspect of the architectural design prioritizes the safety and developmental needs of children with disabilities. It is noteworthy that Ashar Alo Chattogram was recognized as the country’s best specialized educational institution for children with special needs on the occasion of the 18th World Autism Awareness Day, in recognition of its outstanding contributions to special education, healthcare, and training. The recognition reflects the Bangladesh Navy’s strong commitment and social responsibility toward children with special needs.
Chief Adviser Expresses Deep Condolences over the Death of Former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia
Dhaka, 30 December 2025 – Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, three-time former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and a symbol of the country’s democratic movement. In a condolence message, the Chief Adviser said, “With the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, the nation has lost a great guardian. I am deeply saddened and grief-stricken by her demise.” Professor Yunus stated that Begum Khaleda Zia was not merely the leader of a political party; she represented a significant chapter in the history of Bangladesh. Considering her contributions, long political struggle, and deep emotional connection with the people, the government had earlier declared her a Very Important Person (VIP) of the state this month. He noted that her role in establishing democracy, promoting a multi-party political culture, and safeguarding the rights of the people would remain memorable in the nation’s history. Her uncompromising leadership repeatedly inspired the nation to emerge from periods of democratic suppression. The country will remember her contributions with deep respect, he said. Despite political differences, Begum Khaleda Zia’s long political journey, people-oriented leadership, and unwavering resolve consistently guided the nation. With her death, Bangladesh has lost a seasoned and tested political leader, the Chief Adviser remarked.
In his message, Professor Yunus recalled that Begum Khaleda Zia was the country’s first woman Prime Minister and Chairperson of the BNP, who led the struggle to restore democracy against authoritarian rule. He further stated that following the assassination of her husband, former President, Army Chief, and decorated freedom fighter Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia entered politics in 1982. Rising from the life of a homemaker, her strong leadership played a decisive role in ending the nine-year authoritarian rule of Hussain Muhammad Ershad. The Chief Adviser said many of her initiatives and decisions helped advance the country significantly. In particular, the introduction of free education and stipend programs for girls marked a historic milestone in the advancement of female education in Bangladesh. He also highlighted her remarkable political success, noting that she never lost an election. Between 1991 and 2001, she was elected from five different parliamentary constituencies, and in 2008, she won all three seats she contested. Professor Yunus mentioned that after assuming office as Prime Minister in 1991, Begum Khaleda Zia laid a strong foundation for the national economy through economic liberalization. Referring to recent political history, he said that during what he described as the fascist rule of Sheikh Hasina, Begum Khaleda Zia emerged as a unique symbol of resistance and struggle. Her uncompromising stance throughout prolonged movements greatly inspired the nation. The condolence message further stated that due to her political success, she became a victim of extreme political vendetta. She was sentenced to 17 years in prison in what were described as false and fabricated cases and endured prolonged incarceration. Expressing heartfelt sympathy, the Chief Adviser conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members and party leaders and activists of Begum Khaleda Zia. On this irreplaceable day of national loss, he urged the people of the country to remain calm and patient, and requested everyone to pray for the eternal peace of her soul.
“Let Our New Bangladesh Be Built With Women at the Forefront”: Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus
Dhaka, 9 December 2025 – Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called for placing women at the centre of building a new Bangladesh, emphasising that national progress is impossible without ensuring women’s dignity, leadership, and equal opportunity. He made the remarks on Tuesday morning at the Begum Rokeya Day 2025 celebration and award ceremony, organised by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital. As in previous years, the government presented the Rokeya Padak to four distinguished women for extraordinary contributions to women’s education, rights, human rights, and women’s awakening. This year’s awardees are: Ruvana Rakib (Women’s Education – Research), Kalpana Akter (Women’s Rights – Labour Rights), Rituparna Chakma (Women’s Awakening – Sports), and Nabila Idris (Human Rights). Congratulating the recipients, Professor Yunus said, “The ideals that Begum Rokeya articulated with such vision and courage have been carried forward today by these four extraordinary women. This is not just another award—this is transformative. They have elevated Bangladesh to a new level of global visibility and leadership.” Reflecting on the century-long legacy of Rokeya, he noted with regret that Bangladesh has yet to produce another Rokeya-like revolutionary figure. “We have gone 100 years without creating another Rokeya. That is our failure,” he said. “Her dreams and directions were clear, but we haven’t been able to internalise them in our daily lives. We speak beautifully, but we have not advanced as we should have.” Sharing memories from the 1974 famine and his early work with Grameen Bank, he described the severe hardships faced by women: “The first impact of famine falls on women and children.” He recalled instances where women didn’t even know their own names. “They were known only as someone’s mother, someone’s wife, someone’s daughter. We taught them to write their own names. They learned with tears in their eyes. This was 100 years after Rokeya dreamed of such empowerment.” He stressed that Rokeya’s teachings must guide everyday life: “Rokeya always worked with society, never outside it. She said 100 years ago—educate women so they can earn a living. Why have we not learned from this?” Highlighting structural gender inequalities, he pointed to discrepancies at the university level: “When I was a student, there were only four girls in my Economics class. In some departments, none. Today women are everywhere—yet Dhaka University has five women’s dormitories and thirteen men’s dormitories. How is that justice? Women’s accommodation must come first.” Calling for women’s leadership in national reconstruction, he said, “Women have shown their leadership in the mass uprising. Today’s women represent a new era. Our new Bangladesh must be built with women at the forefront.” At the ceremony, Professor Yunus also announced the renaming of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs to “Ministry of Women and Children” to reflect a more empowering vision. The programme was chaired by Sharmin S. Murshid, Adviser to the Ministry, with welcome remarks delivered by Senior Secretary Mumtaz Ahmed.
Commercial Courts Set to Become a Reality in Bangladesh: Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed
Dhaka, 7 December 2025 – Bangladesh is on the brink of establishing dedicated Commercial Courts, a landmark reform that Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed says will open “a new horizon” for the country’s economy by ensuring fast, modern and transparent resolution of business disputes. Speaking at a seminar, the Chief Justice noted that the business community has long called for a specialised forum to resolve commercial cases efficiently—an aspiration that is now close to being realised. A Supreme Court research team drafted the initial version of the Commercial Courts Bill, which was later enriched through nationwide roadshows, in-depth consultations with the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), input from business law experts, and feedback from commercial stakeholders. The Chief Justice highlighted that the European Union also provided significant technical support during the drafting process. After further review and refinement by the Law Ministry, the draft law has now received policy approval from the Cabinet, clearing the way for formal enactment. Chief Justice Refaat Ahmed explained that the draft law includes several modern and globally aligned features: a clear definition of commercial disputes; establishment of multiple specialised Commercial Courts; creation of a dedicated appellate bench in the High Court Division; mandatory mediation; limited adjournments; summary trials; transparent publication of case statistics; and specialised training programmes for judges and lawyers. These provisions, he noted, will significantly enhance the speed, efficiency and credibility of commercial adjudication, ultimately strengthening Bangladesh’s competitiveness in the global economy. He emphasised, however, that “a law becomes effective only when it is properly implemented.” He called for sustained investment in court infrastructure, development of professional human resources, improvement of digital capabilities, and coordinated collaboration among all justice-sector stakeholders. The Supreme Court, he added, is ready to issue the necessary practice directions and guidelines to support the swift establishment and functioning of Commercial Courts. He urged the legal community and all justice actors to uphold integrity, discipline and competence in bringing the new law into effective practice. UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller delivered the welcome remarks. Distinguished guests included Olle Lundin of the Embassy of Sweden, Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner Clinton Pook, Canada’s Ambassador Ajit Singh, Sweden’s Ambassador Nicolas Weeks, and EU Ambassador Michael Miller. Senior officials from the Supreme Court Secretariat, leaders of the Chattogram Bar Association, lawyers, and judicial officers from the region were also in attendance.
National Defence Course 2025 and Armed Forces War Course 2025 Conclude in Dhaka
Dhaka, 4 December 2025 – The closing ceremony of the National Defence Course (NDC) 2025 and the Armed Forces War Course (AFWC) 2025 was held yesterday (Wednesday) at the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) Complex in Mirpur Cantonment. The Chief Adviser of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Professor Muhammad Yunus, attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest. In his address, the Chief Adviser congratulated all course members for successfully completing their year-long training. He expressed confidence that the knowledge and experience gained through rigorous academic work and dedication would significantly contribute to national development, policy formulation, and strategic decision-making. Professor Yunus highlighted that the National Defence College has established itself as a “centre of excellence” in security and development studies. In a rapidly evolving global landscape, he said, the institution continues to play a pivotal role in preparing capable leaders to face national and international challenges. He urged the graduating officers to apply their acquired expertise and insight for the advancement of Bangladesh and the protection of national interests. The Chief Adviser also thanked the international course participants from friendly nations for choosing to undertake their training at the National Defence College, Bangladesh. He expressed hope that continued participation would further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Bangladesh and their respective countries. Lieutenant General Mohammad Shaheenul Haque, OSP, BSP, NDC, HDMC, PSC, Commandant of the National Defence College, conveyed his deep gratitude for the presence of the Chief Adviser. He noted that, inspired by the philosophy of “Knowledge is Security,” NDC continues to prepare senior and mid-level military and civil officials for effective contributions to national security, development, and state policy planning. The Commandant also acknowledged with appreciation the invaluable support received from the Armed Forces Headquarters, various ministries, universities, and friendly nations in successfully conducting the NDC and AFWC courses. This year, a total of 96 participants took part in the National Defence Course 2025, including 49 officers from the Bangladesh Armed Forces, 18 members of the civil administration, and 29 participants from 18 friendly countries. Additionally, 56 officers from the Bangladesh Army, Navy, and Air Force successfully completed the Armed Forces War Course 2025.
EU–BIDA Dialogue Highlights Key Reforms to Strengthen Bangladesh’s Investment Climate
Dhaka, 3 December 2025 – The European Union and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) convened a high-level EU–BIDA Business Climate Dialogue on 1 December 2025 in Dhaka, bringing together EU ambassadors, senior government officials, and leaders from major European companies to discuss key reforms needed to strengthen Bangladesh’s investment environment ahead of its LDC graduation. Jointly organised by the EU Delegation and BIDA, with support from the Netherlands Embassy and EuroCham Bangladesh, the dialogue gathered private-sector representatives from logistics, apparel, agriculture, energy, engineering, chemicals, finance, healthcare and technology, alongside officials from NBR, Bangladesh Bank, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Shipping, port authorities, SREDA, BSTI, and other regulatory bodies. EU Ambassador Michael Miller emphasized the shared ambition for a mutually beneficial investment partnership built on transparency, teamwork, and impartial implementation, announcing plans for the Bangladesh–EU Business Forum 2026. European private-sector leaders highlighted challenges ranging from fragmented customs jurisdictions, weak inland waterways, high compliance costs, and unfair competition, to urgent needs for customs modernisation, digitalisation, reduced import duties, simplified procedures, and structured engagement with Bangladesh Bank. They stressed that regulatory predictability, transparency, and ease of doing business are critical to attracting higher-quality European FDI. BIDA’s Nahian Rahman outlined ongoing reforms shaped by investor inputs, including improved inter-agency coordination, transparent progress tracking, and political consultations to ensure continuity. European ambassadors echoed complementary priorities—predictable regulations, governance safeguards, SME development, sustainable value chains, vocational skills, and improved international branding of Bangladesh—while government representatives, including Chittagong Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral S. M. Moniruzzaman, detailed port modernisation plans such as digitalisation, Bay Terminal development, and 24/7 operations. BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun emphasized structural reforms, prioritisation of investor issues, and annual “result cards,” inviting European companies to expand operations as long-term partners. Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi called for a reform roadmap and early engagement with the EU in preparation for LDC graduation. The dialogue concluded with a joint commitment to collaborate on improving the investment climate using EuroCham working groups and to prepare together for the EU–Bangladesh Business Forum 2026.
Supreme Court Secretariat Ordinance Issued, Judiciary Formally Separated from Executive
Dhaka, 1 December 2025 – The interim government has taken a historic step toward full judicial independence by issuing the Supreme Court Secretariat Ordinance, 2025, formally separating the judiciary from the executive and establishing an independent Supreme Court Secretariat. The gazette, published late Sunday night under Article 93(1) of the Constitution, states that a distinct secretariat is essential to fulfilling the objectives of Articles 22, 109, and 116, ensuring proper supervision, control, and discipline of the subordinate judiciary. This move follows a long constitutional journey that began with the 1972 Constitution, which originally vested authority over subordinate judges in the Supreme Court before the Fourth and Fifth Amendments transferred those powers to the President, effectively bringing the judiciary under executive influence. In recent years, legal challenges questioned the constitutionality of these amendments, culminating in a High Court ruling on 2 September 2025 that restored the original Article 116 and directed the government to establish a separate secretariat within three months. Acting on a proposal submitted by Chief Justice Syed Refat Ahmed on 27 October 2024, which included a draft ordinance, organogram, and revised Rules of Business, the interim government’s Advisory Council approved the ordinance on 20 November 2025. According to the ordinance, the newly established Supreme Court Secretariat will operate under the direct authority of the Chief Justice and be headed by a Secretary with senior secretary status, responsible for supervising all subordinate courts, tribunals, administrative functions, and judicial personnel matters. The Secretariat will have direct communication authority with any ministry or government body, underscoring its institutional autonomy. A Supreme Court Secretariat Commission, chaired by the Chief Justice and including the Law Minister or Advisor, a nominated Appellate Division Judge, the National Human Rights Commission Chairperson, and the Attorney General, will provide guidance on judicial administration and capacity development. Supreme Court spokesperson Md. Moazzem Hossain described the ordinance as the realization of a long-awaited institutional reform, marking a transformative moment in Bangladesh’s judicial history as the dream of a fully independent judicial secretariat finally becomes a reality.
826 Judges Promoted Across Three Judicial Ranks
Dhaka, 27 November 2025 – In one of the largest administrative reshuffles in recent years, the interim government has promoted and reassigned 826 judges of the subordinate judiciary across three key judicial positions. The Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs announced the promotions and postings through three separate gazette notifications issued on Wednesday afternoon, signed by Deputy Secretary A.F.M. Golzar Rahman. According to the notifications, judges serving in the ranks of Additional District and Sessions Judge, Joint District Judge, and Senior Assistant Judge have been promoted to the next higher tiers, with new postings issued simultaneously. The gazette details promotions as follows:
- 250 judges promoted from Additional District & Sessions Judge to District & Sessions Judge;
- 294 judges promoted from Joint District Judge to Additional District Judge;
- 282 judges promoted from Senior Assistant Judge to Joint District Judge.
In total, 826 judges have been promoted and concurrently posted to new stations across the country. The notification regarding promotions to District and Sessions Judge mentions that the judges have been elevated to the first grade pay scale (Tk. 70,925–76,350) under the Bangladesh Judicial Service (Pay and Allowances) Order, 2016. The appointments and postings will remain in effect until further order. Promoted and transferred judges have been instructed to:
- Hand over their current responsibilities by 27 November to officials designated by their respective office heads;
- Report to their newly assigned workplaces by 1 December 2025.
Judges currently on training, maternity leave, or foreign leave have been directed to complete their handover and join their newly assigned positions immediately after returning from leave or training. Legal experts view this wide-scale promotion and reshuffling as a significant administrative initiative aimed at strengthening judicial leadership at the district level. The move is expected to enhance the efficiency of court operations, improve case management, and distribute judicial workload more evenly across the country. The large-scale adjustments come at a time when the judiciary continues working to reduce case backlogs and improve public access to justice.
Proud Beginning for Emerging Sailors as B/2025 Batch Concludes Passing-Out Parade
Dhaka, 23 November 2025 – A colourful passing-out parade marking the completion of boot camp training for the Bangladesh Navy’s B/2025 batch of new sailors was held today at the parade ground of BNS Sher-e-Bangla in Patuakhali. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan attended the ceremony as the chief guest, inspected the parade, received the salute, and presented awards to top-performing recruits. Among the graduating batch, Rizan Molya achieved the highest overall performance and received the Chief of Naval Staff Medal. Md Maruf Hasan Munna was awarded the COMKHUL Medal, while Md Hasan Ali earned the Sher-e-Bangla Medal for meritorious achievement. In his address, the Chief of Naval Staff paid deep tribute to the heroic freedom fighters of the Liberation War, the fearless naval commandos, and the martyrs of the July–August anti-discrimination movement. He urged the new sailors to commit themselves to fulfilling their duties within a modern, capable and three-dimensional navy, expressing confidence that they will play a vital role in protecting Bangladesh’s vast maritime boundaries and contributing to national development. The ceremony marks a moment of honour, pride and responsibility as the newly graduated sailors begin their journey in service to the nation.
Reception and Medal Presentation by the Chief of Army Staff to Gallantry Awardees, Freedom Fighter Army Personnel, and Peacetime Medal Recipients
Dhaka, 24 November 2025 — On the occasion of Armed Forces Day 2025, a reception ceremony was held today at the Army Multipurpose Complex in Dhaka Cantonment in honour of gallantry award recipients of the Bangladesh Army from the Great Liberation War, other freedom fighter army personnel, and their family members. Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman, SBP, OSP, SGP, psc, exchanged greetings with the gallantry awardees, freedom fighter army personnel, and their close relatives. At the ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff also decorated a total of 64 army personnel with medals in recognition of various acts of bravery during peacetime in fiscal years 2024–2025 and 2025–2026. These included:
- 09 Sena Bahini Padak (SBP) recipients
- 17 Oustanding Service Medal (OSP) recipients
- 38 Bishishto Service Medal (BSP) recipients
The event began with a presentation highlighting the heroic contributions of gallantry-awarded and freedom fighter army personnel during the Liberation War, as well as the commendable achievements of the peacetime medal recipients. It is notable that the Army Headquarters organizes this reception annually to honour and immortalize the contributions of freedom fighter army personnel to the nation’s independence struggle. The ceremony was attended by gallantry awardees and freedom fighter army personnel, their family members, senior military officers, army members, invited guests, and media representatives.