Bangladesh

The proposed FY2026-27 budget, set to be presented in Parliament today, reduces subsidies by nearly Tk 19,000 crore from FY2024-25 levels while boosting export incentives and relying more heavily on debt-financed spending.

The Commonwealth Lawyers Association and LAWASIA have raised serious alarms over alleged interference and political exclusion in Bangladesh’s Supreme Court Bar Association elections. The joint statement calls on authorities to halt intimidation, ensure fair polls, and review politically motivated criminal cases.

Bangladesh police have responded to TIB’s recent crime data, arguing that murder figures remain consistent with the long-term annual average of 3,000–4,500 cases. Officials noted that most incidents are driven by personal or family disputes, not political motives.

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has rejected retirement speculation, stating she will not abandon her party during political persecution. Speaking to Ei Samay, she emphasized that a new leadership will be elected through democratic party councils.

Bangladesh defeated Australia by 86 runs in Dhaka, securing their first ODI victory over the visitors since the famous Cardiff triumph in 2005.