Weak Policies of Yunus Government Put Bangladesh Economy at Serious Risk
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a sharp warning that Bangladesh is now facing major macro-financial risks due to the weak revenue collection of the incumbent interim government, an inefficient financial sector, and persistently high inflation.
Awami League Calls for Nationwide Shutdown on 16–17 November
The Awami League has announced a nationwide shutdown on 16–17 November following what it called the “successful lockdown” on 13 November. The program was declared to demand the resignation of interim government chief adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, an end to the “farcical trial,” and the restoration of democracy. The announcement has raised concerns about unrest, security risks, and a potential paralysis of public life across the country.
Dhaka Falls Silent as Awami League’s ‘Lockdown’ Brings Tight Security and Empty Streets
On Thursday (November 13), silence and emptiness were observed in the capital Dhaka and across several parts of the country surrounding the “Dhaka Lockdown” program called by the Awami League. On Wednesday, there was reduced traffic pressure on the roads, limited attendance in offices, courts, and educational institutions, while law enforcement agencies remained on high alert everywhere.
Armed Forces’ Special Magistracy Powers Extended by Another Three and a Half Months
The interim government has extended the tenure of commissioned officers of the Bangladesh Armed Forces as Special Executive Magistrates for an additional three and a half months. This decision was announced on Tuesday (November 11) through a notification issued by the Ministry of Public Administration.
Human Rights Fears Grow in Bangladesh After Sheikh Hasina’s Fall
Bangladesh has faced intense political unrest since the ouster of longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, following a massive student-led movement against her increasingly authoritarian rule.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan Becomes First Member of Yunus Advisory Council to Visit Pakistan
Bangladesh’s Environment, Forests, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has made history as the first member of the Yunus Advisory Council to visit Pakistan, highlighting growing bilateral interactions between the two nations.
Pakistan Navy Vessel Visits Bangladesh After Five Decades
In a move symbolizing a potential reset in South Asian diplomacy, a Pakistani naval vessel, PNS Saif, arrived at Chittagong Port on Sunday for a four-day goodwill visit — the first of its kind in more than five decades.
GANHRI Accused of Inaction Over Bangladesh’s Defunct Human Rights Commission
The Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG), a Delhi-based human rights watchdog, has accused the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) of failing to take any action against Bangladesh’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which has remained inactive since November 7, 2024.
Government Moves to Control All Internet Services Under New Telecommunication Law
Not only telephone or mobile operators, but from now on all internet‐based services will come under government control. International platforms like Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp or Netflix will also need government approval if they wish to provide services in Bangladesh. With certain conditions, interception will be possible. With such provisions, the government has initiated an amendment to the 2001 Telecommunication Act.
Rights groups condemn crackdown on Bangladesh lawyers
Several international human rights organisations and bar councils have strongly condemned what they describe as a “politically motivated” campaign of repression against lawyers in Bangladesh under the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus.