Bangladesh

BNP leader Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed says the upcoming election is non-competitive without the Awami League and questions police neutrality and proposed parliamentary reforms.

Police in Chakaria detained six youths, including minors, for chanting “Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu,” triggering outrage and fresh debate over civil liberties in Bangladesh.

The UK and US have updated travel advisories for Bangladesh, warning of political unrest, terrorism, crime and election-related violence ahead of the February 12 polls.

Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader says the proposed referendum is unconstitutional, accusing the government of illegally campaigning for the ‘Yes’ vote using public funds.

Detained BSL leader Jewel Hasan Saddam was denied parole after the deaths of his wife and nine-month-old son, but briefly viewed their bodies at Jashore jail.