<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<feed xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
                        <id>http://www.presstoday.news/feed/politics</id>
                                <link href="http://www.presstoday.news/feed/politics"></link>
                                <title><![CDATA[The Press Today politics Feed]]></title>
                                <description>The Press Today Latest politics News Feeds</description>
                                <language>bn-BD</language>
                                <updated>Sun, 05 Apr 2026 06:54:53 +0000</updated>
                        <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[BNP will face same fate as AL : 11-party alliance]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/363" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/363</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The 11-party alliance held a protest rally in the capital on Saturday, demanding immediate implementation of the referendum results and protesting the government&#39;s stance against the verdict.

At a rally and procession held at the National Mosque Baitul Mukarram premises in the afternoon, leaders of the alliance claimed that the government is turning fascist by opposing reforms and the results of the referendum.

They warned that if BNP tries to establish fascism, it will face the same fate as the previous government.

From the afternoon onward, leaders and activists arrived at the rally venue in small processions from different parts of the capital.

Many carried placards with slogans such as &quot;Implement the July Charter&quot; and &quot;We Must Respect the Referendum.&quot; Participants chanted slogans in favor of the referendum and against the government&#39;s position.

The protest rally was organized by Dhaka Metropolitan City unit of the 11-party alliance, chaired by Jamaat-e-Islami Naib-e-Amir ATM Azharul Islam. Senior leaders of the coalition addressed the gathering in turn.

Speakers accused the government of disregarding the aspirations of the people and taking a stance against the referendum results. They strongly criticized the current political situation and warned that if the verdict is not implemented immediately, a tougher movement will be launched.

They also stressed the need for constitutional reform to ensure the people&#39;s voting rights and the reflection of their opinions.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sun, 05 Apr 2026 06:54:53 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[1972 constitution couldn&#039;t protect us: MP Shafiqul]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/360" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/360</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Opposition Party Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami MP Shafiqul Islam declared in parliament on Monday that if the constitution were to be strictly adhered to, both the prime minister and home minister would not be in the country but abroad, while defending the referendum and July Charter Implementation Order amid ongoing debate.

Speaking during discussion on the motion of thanks to the President&#39;s address in the Jatiya Sangsad, Shafiqul Islam said, &quot;If we had to follow the constitution, the prime minister should not be in Bangladesh but outside the country. If the constitution had to be followed, the current home minister should now be outside the country.&quot;

The Jamaat MP expressed concern about potential discrimination similar to the past 17 years and said he has not seen effective progress in the trial for Sharif Osman Hadi&#39;s killing since the current government took office.

Pointing to the ruling party&#39;s stance on the referendum and July Charter Implementation Order, he said, &quot;If the constitution could have protected us, we would have had to search its pages to remove sand trucks that day. If the 1972 constitution could protect us, we would not be here today. We would be in jail, not in this parliament.&quot;

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:14:26 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[BNP behaving like the then-ruling Awami League: Nahid]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/343" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/343</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) Convener and Dhaka-11 MP Nahid Islam has accused Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) of behaving like the then-ruling Awami League and warned that his party could return to mass protests if what he called anti reform actions continue.

Speaking at a pre-iftar gathering organised by the NCP at a school ground in Barishal city on Sunday, Nahid alleged that the BNP had revealed its intentions by filing a defamation case against NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary.

&ldquo;If the BNP continues to act like the Awami League, we will also return to the path of mass uprising,&rdquo; he said.

Nahid further claimed that if the BNP &ldquo;betrays the blood of martyrs&rdquo; and sides with the Awami League and India against reform efforts while supporting corrupt elements, the NCP would have no alternative but to take to the streets again.

He also alleged that candidates from the NCP and the 11 party alliance were defeated through vote rigging in the recent national election.

Addressing young supporters, Nahid urged them to prepare for the upcoming local government polls. &ldquo;The rigging that happened in the national election will not be allowed in the local government elections,&rdquo; he said.

The NCP leader accused the BNP of failing to honour its promises immediately after assuming office. He warned that if a reform council is not formed during the next parliamentary session scheduled for March 12, his party would resume street agitation to defend what he described as the people&rsquo;s rights.

At the same rally, Nasiruddin Patwary also criticised the BNP, alleging that the party was steering the country toward greater Indian influence.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:46:00 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Khalil and Rizwana to be  interrogated over &#039;election engineering&#039;: Jamat]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/339" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/339</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami organized a protest rally in Dhaka demanding the interrogation of Foreign Minister (FM) Khalilur Rahman and former interim government adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan over alleged election engineering in the 13th national parliamentary polls.

Party leaders and activists of Jamaat&rsquo;s Dhaka metropolitan unit held a brief rally at the north gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque at noon before bringing out a protest procession.

The demonstration follows allegations made on Thursday by Jamaat Nayeb-e-Ameer and Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher.

Taher accused Khalilur Rahman, who previously served as National Security Adviser in the interim government and now holds the post of foreign minister in the BNP-led government, of playing a role in manipulating the election process.

Taher also raised similar allegations against Syeda Rizwana Hasan, another former adviser to the interim administration.

Speaking at Friday&rsquo;s rally, Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar called for a formal investigation into claims that the people&rsquo;s mandate was altered through election engineering. He urged authorities to question both Khalilur Rahman and Rizwana Hasan and to disclose the names of any others allegedly involved.

Referring to remarks attributed to Rizwana Hasan about opposition politics, Parwar questioned whether Jamaat was being sidelined from the political mainstream. &ldquo;If others were involved, their names should be made public,&rdquo; he said.

Parwar stated that Jamaat had accepted the election results despite what he described as deep disappointment, saying the party did so in the interest of national stability and fulfilling public expectations.

On Thursday, Taher had said Jamaat filed specific complaints regarding alleged irregularities in 53 constituencies during the parliamentary election.

Parwar also alleged that Khalilur Rahman&rsquo;s appointment to the cabinet was politically motivated, suggesting he had benefited certain political forces during the interim government period.

Leaders of Jamaat&rsquo;s Dhaka metropolitan unit were present at the rally. Neither the Foreign Ministry nor Syeda Rizwana Hasan has publicly responded to the allegations.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 05:49:37 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Congratulatory banners-billboards to be removed]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/334" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/334</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Prime Minister (PM) Tarique Rahman has directed the authorities to immediately take down all banners billboards and digital screens featuring his photograph across Dhaka.

The directive came after the premier personally spotted several congratulatory displays during his regular commutes through the capital.

Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman confirmed that the order was issued to relevant officials on Tuesday following multiple sightings that prompted the swift action.

During his morning journey from his Gulshan residence to his office, the Prime Minister observed a banner carrying his image positioned near Police Plaza in the Hatirjheel area.

He ordered it removed on the spot and authorities complied without delay. The incident was not isolated as commercial companies had also placed advertisements on billboards throughout the city featuring photographs of the newly appointed leader alongside congratulatory messages.

Days earlier a similar situation arose when the premier was travelling through Bijoy Sarani and noticed his photograph displayed on an LED screen with celebratory content. That too was ordered removed immediately.

The Prime Minister arrived at his Cabinet Division office located within the Bangladesh Secretariat at approximately nine in the morning on Tuesday.
Following his arrival he received Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Haque who serves as Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard in a courtesy meeting.

During their discussion the premier issued instructions to strengthen routine patrol operations across coastal regions and throughout Bay of Bengal waters.

He emphasized the need to combat piracy robbery and illegal trafficking while also prioritizing the protection of fisheries resources and ensuring the welfare and safety of fishermen operating in those areas.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:23:38 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Parliament&#039;s 1st session on March 12.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/321" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/321</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The newly elected parliament of Bangladesh will hold its 1st session on March 12. The Law Minister disclosed the information to reporters following a meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat.

He explained that the session will also feature the presentation of ordinances issued by the interim government and condolence motions.

According to the minister, the constitutional process requires the Parliament Secretariat to send a summary of the session schedule to the President&#39;s Office through the Prime Minister&#39;s Office. Based on the prime minister&#39;s advice, the president will formally convene the opening session.

In addition to electing the speaker and deputy speaker, the session will address various ordinances promulgated during the interim government&#39;s tenure. Proceedings will also include a condolence motion and the traditional presidential address.

Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed the details through a post on his verified Facebook page late Saturday night. &quot;The session will also present interim government ordinances and condolence motions,&quot; he wrote, adding that the speaker and deputy speaker will be elected during the session.

Under the Constitution, the president is required to summon the first session of a newly elected parliament within 30 days of the official gazetting of election results, acting on written advice from the prime minister.

National elections and a referendum were held on 12 February, with results gazetted the following day. Newly elected MPs took their oaths on 13 February, making the first session mandatory before 14 March.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been designated parliamentary leader, and his government has already begun operations, though the party has yet to elect a speaker, deputy leader or chief whip.

On the opposition side, Jamaat-e-Islami&#39;s Shafiqur Rahman has been named opposition leader, Syed Abdullah Md Taher as deputy leader, and Nahid Islam of the NCP as chief whip.

In accordance with the July National Charter, the deputy speaker position is expected to be filled by a member of the opposition.

Following constitutional procedure, the president will deliver the opening speech after cabinet approval, which will be followed by parliamentary debate.

In the absence of explicit rules on presiding over the session, historical precedent from 1973 allows a senior member to chair proceedings until the speaker and deputy speaker are formally elected.

Of the 300 parliamentary seats, voting took place in 299 constituencies. Results from two Chattogram seats remain pending due to court orders, and voting in Sherpur-3 was postponed following the death of a candidate.

Among the remaining 297 seats, the BNP won 209, its allies three, Jamaat 68, NCP six, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis three, Islami Andolan one, and independents seven.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:46:51 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[&quot;Which direction is Bangladesh heading?” :Shafiqur Rahman]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/316" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/316</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Opposition leader and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has questioned whether the government has effectively &ldquo;nationalised extortion&rdquo; through a recent statement by the newly appointed minister for road transport, rail and shipping.

In a post on his verified Facebook page on Friday night, Shafiqur wrote, &ldquo;Has the announcement of nationalising extortion been made through the minister of road transport and bridges of the newly formed government? How will the source of corruption be controlled? Nothing makes sense. From the very beginning, which direction is Bangladesh heading?&rdquo;

Addressing citizens, he added, &ldquo;Dear countrymen, to free ourselves from the shadow of extortion, we must resist. We are with you in this struggle, Insha&rsquo;Allah.&rdquo;

The remarks come after comments made by Shaikh Rabiul Alam, minister of road transport, rail and shipping, regarding funds collected in the name of transport owners&rsquo; and workers&rsquo; organisations.

His statement drew widespread criticism and triggered strong reactions.

In that context, Shafiqur raised concerns over possible mismanagement and corruption linked to extortion in the transport sector.]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 05:15:12 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[MP Milon&#039;s high jump!]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/310" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/310</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Newly elected MP Ehsanul Haque Milon from Chandpur-1 was seen rushing and even leaping to enter the Parliament building to avoid missing the swearing-in ceremony as heavy traffic in Dhaka in the morning caused delays for many attendees.

Witnesses reported seeing newly elected MP Ehsanul Haque Milon rushing and even leaping to enter the Parliament building to avoid missing the ceremony.

Several other guests and officials were also unable to arrive on time due to the congestion.

The BNP MPs&#39; swearing-in ceremony held at 10:45AM on Tuesday at the Parliament Secretariat&#39;s oath hall which was administered by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin.

As per protocol, BNP MPs, representing the majority party, were sworn in first.

PT/ra

 

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 08:31:00 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Jamaat calls protest rally immediate after sworn in]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/308" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/308</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has called a protest rally in the capital in response to what it described as the prevailing situation and instability in the country.

The protest rally is scheduled to begin at 3 PM on Tuesday (17 February).

The party&rsquo;s Dhaka Metropolitan South unit will organise the programme.

In a press release, Abdus Sattar Suman, Assistant Secretary for Publicity of Jamaat&rsquo;s Dhaka Metropolitan South, said a protest procession and rally would be held at the north gate of the National Mosque Baitul Mukarram.

The party said the demonstration is being staged to protest against the prevailing situation and instability in the country.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 08:16:58 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Freedom and democracy  loving citizens have chosen the BNP]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/304" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/304</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday declared that &ldquo;we are all free from today,&rdquo; and called for unity stating that &quot;national unity is our strength while division weakness&#39;. Addressing the post-election press conference at Hotel InterContinental in the capital following his party&rsquo;s decisive victory in the 13th parliamentary elections, Tarique thanked voters across the country for returning the BNP to power through what he described as a peaceful, competitive and participatory election.

He characterized the outcome as a triumph not only for his party but for democracy and the people of Bangladesh. &ldquo;Freedom-loving and democracy-loving citizens have once again chosen the BNP. This victory belongs to Bangladesh, to democracy and to the people who aspire to democratic governance,&rdquo; Tarique said.

Tarique said the election marked a significant turning point for the country, coming after years of political unrest and what he termed authoritarian governance. He noted that Bangladesh is now entering a new phase, with an elected parliament and government directly accountable to voters for the first time in over a decade.

He acknowledged that the incoming administration would face serious challenges, including what he described as a fragile economy, weakened constitutional and statutory institutions, and a strained law and order situation. &ldquo;We are beginning this journey in a difficult environment,&rdquo; he said, adding that rebuilding institutions and restoring public confidence would be top priorities.

The BNP chief emphasized that broad public participation in the election helped re-establish democratic legitimacy. He thanked the interim government and the Election Commission for organizing the polls and credited judicial officials, members of the armed forces, civil administration personnel and law enforcement agencies for their roles in ensuring a smooth process. He also recognized the contribution of domestic and international media and election observers.

Tarique underscored the importance of national unity, warning that division could weaken the country&rsquo;s democratic gains. &ldquo;National unity is our strength; division is our weakness,&rdquo; he said.

He noted that 51 political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, Jamiatul Islam and Gono Odhikar Parishad, took part in the election. Congratulating all participating parties, he said a functioning democracy requires both a responsible government and an effective opposition.

&ldquo;Our paths and opinions may differ, but when it comes to the country, we are one,&rdquo; Tarique said, calling on all democratic forces to contribute ideas and work collectively toward rebuilding the nation.

Tarique reiterated the BNP&rsquo;s commitment to its previously announced 31-point reform outline aimed at &ldquo;repairing the state.&rdquo; He said the party developed the reform plan through consultations with other democratic forces and citizens nationwide and incorporated it into its election manifesto.

He also confirmed that the BNP signed the July Charter, with certain notes of dissent on specific issues, and pledged that commitments made to the public would be implemented gradually and responsibly.

&ldquo;We will fulfill each promise we have made to the people,&rdquo; he said, stressing that restoring the rule of law, strengthening democratic institutions, curbing corruption and improving governance would form the foundation of the new government&rsquo;s agenda.

Despite celebrating what he described as a sweeping mandate, Tarique urged party leaders and supporters across the country to remain calm and avoid any actions that could trigger unrest. He said he had instructed BNP activists not to hold victory processions to prevent potential clashes or provocation.

&ldquo;Under no circumstances should peace and order be disrupted,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We will not tolerate injustice, unlawful acts or attacks by the strong against the weak, regardless of political affiliation, religion or opinion.&rdquo;

He warned that any post-election misunderstandings between rival candidates or supporters must not escalate into revenge or violence. &ldquo;The rule of law must prevail equally for every citizen, whether in government or opposition,&rdquo; he added.

Tarique paid tribute to those who lost their lives or were injured in past movements for democracy, referencing the country&rsquo;s long political struggle from the 1971 Liberation War to recent protests. He offered prayers for deceased leaders, including former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and said their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

&ldquo;The democratic Bangladesh we celebrate today stands on the sacrifices of many,&rdquo; he said. Concluding his remarks, Tarique said the BNP had been given a renewed mandate to govern and must now deliver tangible improvements in living standards. He called on party members and citizens alike to act responsibly in rebuilding the country. &ldquo;We must repay the trust and love shown by the people through dedicated service and hard work,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Let us move forward together to build a safe, humane and democratic Bangladesh.&rdquo;

He ended his address by thanking democratic forces around the world, expatriate Bangladeshis and citizens at home for their support, reaffirming his commitment to unity and democratic governance.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sun, 15 Feb 2026 11:15:10 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Next Govt. is BNP Govt. : Tarique Rahman]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/303" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/303</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladesh Natioanlist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed strong confidence that his party will secure enough public support to form the next government independently in Bangladesh&rsquo;s 13th parliamentary election, scheduled for February 12.

In an exclusive interview with DW, Tarique discussed the upcoming polls, youth and women empowerment, foreign relations, and his plans to ensure justice for victims of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.

Tarique, who returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, said balancing personal grief and political responsibility was his biggest challenge, as his mother, former prime minister Khaleda Zia, passed away just days after his return. &ldquo;Managing election preparations while coping with personal loss was extremely difficult, but I tried my best to move forward,&rdquo; he said.

Responding to questions about the credibility of the February 12 election, Tarique said both the BNP and the public expect a free and fair vote. &ldquo;We are hopeful the election will be credible. The people of Bangladesh also share this expectation,&rdquo; he said.

Addressing the growing number of young and first-time voters, Tarique said BNP&rsquo;s election manifesto focuses on inclusive development, targeting youth, women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. &ldquo;We have designed our policies for everyone, because building the country requires collective effort,&rdquo; he said.

On relations with India, Tarique said Bangladesh would prioritize national interest in all bilateral agreements. &ldquo;If any deal goes against the interests of our people, we will naturally maintain distance, regardless of the country involved,&rdquo; he stated.

Regarding China, he emphasized pragmatic diplomacy. &ldquo;In today&rsquo;s interconnected world, Bangladesh will maintain relations with all countries based on mutual benefit and national interest,&rdquo; he said.

Tarique ruled out forming a unity government with Jamaat-e-Islami, saying BNP is confident of winning outright. &ldquo;A balanced democracy requires a strong opposition. If everyone joins the government, governance becomes ineffective,&rdquo; he said.

On women&rsquo;s political participation and empowerment, Tarique highlighted BNP&rsquo;s long-term strategy, including expanding free education for girls beyond secondary level and introducing a family card system to provide financial support to homemakers, especially those from marginalized communities.

He also outlined plans to increase women&rsquo;s employment, establish childcare centers, and introduce women-only electric buses in major cities to improve safety and mobility. &ldquo;Our goal is to ensure education, economic independence, and security for women,&rdquo; he said.

Asked about the Awami League&rsquo;s exclusion from the election following its ban under anti-terror laws, Tarique said public acceptance ultimately determines political legitimacy. &ldquo;In politics, no one can be sustained by force. Only those accepted by the people can survive,&rdquo; he said.

Responding to claims that several BNP candidates are loan defaulters, Tarique distinguished between corruption and financial hardship. He said many party members and business leaders were targeted and harassed during years of political repression, which disrupted their businesses and access to legitimate bank loans. &ldquo;Loan default does not equate to corruption. These are two separate issues,&rdquo; he said.

Tarique pledged to ensure justice for victims of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and political violence over the past 15 to 16 years. &ldquo;In a civilized society, no one should disappear or be killed without accountability. Every victim deserves justice under the law,&rdquo; he said.

He added that a future BNP government would take concrete steps to investigate abuses and ensure legal remedies for victims and their families.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:04:46 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[A writ filed against Nahid for dual citizenship]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/300" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/300</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[A writ petition has been submitted to the High Court questioning the eligibility of Mohammad Nahid Islam for the Dhaka-11 seat, as it claimed that the 11-party alliance nominee possesses dual citizenship, which could disqualify him from contesting the election.

The petition was filed on Monday by Shamim Ahmed, a rival candidate from the Jatiya Party contesting the same constituency.

Mohammad Nahid Islam, who also serves as the convener of the NCP, is accused in the petition of having acquired citizenship of the Dominican Republic on April 20, 2025.

The petitioner argues that possession of foreign citizenship makes a candidate ineligible to contest parliamentary elections under prevailing electoral laws.

The writ names the Chief Election Commissioner, the Election Commission Secretary, the concerned returning officer, and Mohammad Nahid Islam as respondents.

According to court sources, the petition may be heard by a High Court bench comprising Justice Fahmida Kader and Justice Md Asif Hasan.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 13:19:14 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[“Our goal is rebuilding the state: Tarique Rahman]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/299" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/299</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday urged voters to give his party an opportunity to lead Bangladesh forward, citing its proven experience in governing the country and its comprehensive plans for development, employment, social welfare, and national reconstruction.

Addressing a large election rally at Kalabagan ground in the capital, Tarique said the Bangladesh Nationalist Party is the only political force capable of running the state effectively, based on its past achievements and future-oriented policies.

&ldquo;BNP has the experience to govern this country. On February 12, choose a party and candidates who know how to run a nation, who have clear plans and the capability to implement them. At this moment, no other party has the experience and preparedness that BNP has,&rdquo; he said.

Highlighting BNP&rsquo;s legacy, Tarique recalled the leadership of late president Ziaur Rahman, who, he said, doubled food production in a famine-stricken country and even enabled Bangladesh to export food. He also praised former prime minister Khaleda Zia, saying her government transformed Bangladesh into an emerging industrial economy and expanded employment opportunities.

&ldquo;Under Khaleda Zia&rsquo;s leadership, Bangladesh was internationally recognised as an &lsquo;emerging tiger.&rsquo; She made education free for girls up to Class 12, empowering millions of women and strengthening the foundation of the nation,&rdquo; Tarique said.

He described the upcoming February 12 election as a historic opportunity, saying it marks the return of voting rights that had been denied to the people for the past 16 years.

&ldquo;This is the election the people of Bangladesh have been waiting for. Their voting rights were taken away. Many sacrificed their lives in the struggle to restore democracy. Now, we must rebuild the country,&rdquo; he said.

Tarique outlined BNP&rsquo;s key election pledges, including the introduction of family cards to support women, farmer cards to strengthen agricultural livelihoods, and expatriate cards to assist overseas workers. He also pledged extensive vocational training programs to turn young people into skilled manpower and reduce unemployment.

To address the financial hardships faced by migrant workers, Tarique said BNP would introduce fast-track bank loans at affordable rates so that people would not need to sell their land or homes to finance overseas employment.

&ldquo;No family should have to sell its only asset to send a loved one abroad. The state will ensure easy access to bank loans so migrants can travel safely and repay gradually from their earnings,&rdquo; he said.

On healthcare, Tarique promised the recruitment of 100,000 community health workers to deliver primary medical services to remote and underserved areas. He also pledged to introduce respectable allowances for mosque imams and muezzins, and to strengthen grassroots healthcare infrastructure nationwide.

Speaking about youth empowerment, Tarique said modern training centres would be established across the country to provide technical and vocational education, enabling young people to find dignified jobs both at home and abroad.

&ldquo;We want our youth to become skilled, confident, and self-reliant. Through training and employment, they will become the backbone of national progress,&rdquo; he added.

Addressing governance and corruption, Tarique criticised past mega projects that he said were marred by massive corruption, stressing that BNP&rsquo;s priority would be rebuilding state institutions and ensuring accountability.

&ldquo;Our goal is not just development, but rebuilding the state. Mega projects turned into mega corruption. We must reform governance, ensure transparency, and restore public trust,&rdquo; he said.

Earlier in the day, Tarique also addressed a separate rally at Kamal Ataturk ground in Banani, part of his constituency Dhaka-17, where he sought public support for the BNP candidate. Reflecting on his deep personal ties to the area, he said he had grown up there since 1972 and shared a lifelong bond with its residents.

&ldquo;This country belongs to us. No one from outside will build it for us. We must build it ourselves. Together, we can reconstruct Bangladesh and change the fate of our people,&rdquo; he said.

Introducing BNP candidate Rabiul Islam Rabi for Dhaka-10, Tarique urged voters to support the party&rsquo;s nominees and help BNP form the next government.

&ldquo;Our only objective is to rebuild the nation and create a safe, prosperous, and just Bangladesh for future generations. Give BNP the chance to serve, and we will deliver,&rdquo; he said.]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 13:14:38 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Vote rigging in the polls impossible: Home Adviser]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/298" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/298</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Sunday said there is no possibility of vote rigging in the upcoming national election, expressing confidence that the polls will be peaceful, fair and festive.

Speaking to journalists after a law and order coordination meeting at Rangpur Divisional Commissioner&rsquo;s conference room, the adviser said all necessary preparations had been completed to ensure a credible election.

&ldquo;There is no scope for vote rigging. Cooperate with us. If any irregularity occurs anywhere, inform us immediately and action will be taken,&rdquo; he said.

Asked whether a fair election was possible amid the prevailing law and order situation, Jahangir said security arrangements had been made in line with the specific needs of different areas.

&ldquo;These issues were discussed in today&rsquo;s coordination meeting. The election will be held peacefully and will be free, fair and credible,&rdquo; he said.

The adviser added that despite the short preparation period, law enforcement agencies, the administration and Election Commission had completed all arrangements, leaving no room for irregularities.

The meeting was attended by Senior Secretary of Ministry of Home Affairs Nasimul Gani, Rangpur Divisional Commissioner Md Shahidul Islam, Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Aminul Islam, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md Majid Ali and District Administrator Mohammad Enamul Ahsan.

Senior officials from the field administration, intelligence agencies and law enforcement bodies were also present, along with representatives from the Armed Forces Division, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Ansar and Village Defence Party and regional and district election offices.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sun, 08 Feb 2026 12:42:09 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Election 2026 manifesto of BNP on Friday]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/293" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/293</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) will formally unveil its election manifesto on Friday for the the upcoming 13th national parliamentary elections.

Party Chairman Tarique Rahman will announce the manifesto at 3:30PM at the ballroom of Pan Pacific Sonargaon, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will preside over the programme, while Nazrul Islam Khan, a Standing Committee member and chairman of the party&rsquo;s central election steering committee, will moderate the event.

Speaking about the manifesto, Mahdi Amin, spokesperson of the central election steering committee, said, &#39;&#39;The BNP is a party of the masses and a party of grassroots empowerment. Under the guidance of our chairperson Tarique, we have worked with people from all walks of life. Initially, we put forward 31 points and carried out programmes across every division, district, upazila, union and ward in Bangladesh.&#39;&#39;

He said the vision and roadmap of the party&#39;s top leadership have been given priority, while equal importance has been given on the real problems of ordinary people and what they want. &#39;&#39;Our main goal is to design plans in a way that is practical and sustainable.&#39;&#39;

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 11:47:11 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Nahid of NCP filed writ against MA Kaiyum]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/292" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/292</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[A writ petition has been filed with the High Court challenging the validity of candidacy of BNP-nominated candidate MA Kaiyum.

Nahid Islam, candidate of the Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party alliance for Dhaka-11 and convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), filed the writ on Monday which sought a stay on the candidature of Quayum in the constituency.

Advocate Zahirul Islam Musa and Advocate Ali Azgar Sharifi are present in the court for Nahid.

Musa said the High Court is expected to hear the petition this week.

Earlier, the Election Commission has declared the nomination papers of Nahid and Qayyum valid.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:23:16 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Jamaat trying to Afghanize the country: Fakhrul]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/291" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/291</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said that Jamaat-e-Islami does not want Bangladesh to move forward and wants to turn the country into Afghanistan.

He made these remarks on Monday while campaigning in his constituency in Thakurgaon.

&#39;&#39;Jamaat does not want women to work and wants them to remain confined to their homes.&#39;&#39;

Referring to a recent post from the Jamaat Ameer&#39;s X account, Mirza Fakhrul said that if the Ameer made such misogynistic remarks, then he was in the wrong.

The country now has an opportunity to establish a justice-based state. The BNP wants a fair and transparent election environment involving all parties and is working towards that goal.

Addressing the voters, Mirza Fakhrul said that the country is now in your hands, so you must not make a wrong decision.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:13:45 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Women cannot hold the position of &quot;Ameer&quot; (Chief).]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/290" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/290</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Senior leaders of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami&rsquo;s women&rsquo;s wing clarified the party&rsquo;s stance on gender and leadership, asserting that women cannot hold the position of &quot;Ameer&quot; (Chief).

Nurunnisa Siddika , Secretary of the party&rsquo;s Central Women&rsquo;s Division, stated that Jamaat operates as an Islamic organization where men are viewed as the &quot;guardians&quot; and &quot;directors&quot; of women&mdash;a principle she said members accepted upon joining.

The hour-long meeting at Nirbachan Bhaban marked the first time in country&#39;s history that a delegation specifically from Jamaat&rsquo;s female wing met with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), A.M.M. Nasir Uddin.

The delegation included Siddika, Assistant Secretary Saida Rumman, and members Marzia Begum and Dr. Habiba Chowdhury Sweet, accompanied by senior party leaders.

Addressing reporters after the session, Siddika argued that having a woman in the top leadership post does not inherently guarantee progress. &quot;We have had two female Prime Ministers in the past, yet women&#39;s development did not follow,&quot; she said. &ldquo;Has violence against women decreased? Have women&rsquo;s rights been ensured?&rdquo; she asked, adding that leadership should be judged by humanity and respect for all, regardless of gender.


&ldquo;You know Jamaat-e-Islami is an Islamic organisation. An Islamic organisation will naturally follow Islam,&rdquo; she said.

 

Citing a Quranic verse, she said Islam assigns leadership responsibility to men, which she described as a religious injunction. &ldquo;Accordingly, women cannot come to the leadership of an Islamic organisation,&rdquo; she added.

Nurunnisa Siddika said women in Jamaat had accepted this belief in faith and practice. &ldquo;Whether women come to the top position is not important. What matters is whether women&rsquo;s rights are being ensured,&rdquo; she said.

While playing down the necessity of a female &quot;Ameer,&quot; Dr. Habiba Chowdhury Sweet noted that women are increasingly proving their leadership in local elections and predicted that they would eventually contest parliamentary seats directly.

With women comprising 50% of the electorate, the Jamaat leaders emphasized the need for a peaceful environment on election day. They claimed that certain groups are conspiring to obstruct female voters out of &quot;political vengeance.&quot; Despite the reported violence, the leaders remained defiant, stating that &quot;force cannot stop our women&quot; and that they would continue to protest and participate in the democratic process.

The main focus of the meeting was allegations of violence and intimidation targeting Jamaat&#39;s female activists during the ongoing election campaign ahead of the national parliamentary polls. The women&#39;s wing submitted a memorandum detailing 15 documented incidents of attacks, along with videos.

 

They claimed female members face physical assaults, threats, cyberbullying, and hacking of senior leaders&#39; social media accounts to post derogatory content.

The leaders demanded that authorities identify and prosecute those responsible under relevant laws, including cyber security provisions. They expressed hope for a fair, peaceful, and inclusive election environment, describing the upcoming polls&mdash;combining two key elections&mdash;as critically important for the nation.

The delegation urged the Election Commission and government to take responsible steps to ensure women&#39;s safety and participation. They asserted that attempts to suppress female activists through force or conspiracy would fail, vowing to protest any obstacles. &quot;We have courage and faith&mdash;we will not accept any barriers,&quot; they said.

The delegation also condemned the recent hacking of the Jamaat Ameer&rsquo;s social media account, which was used to post distasteful comments about women. They urged the authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible for these &quot;premeditated conspiracies.&quot;

The Election Commission has reportedly assured the delegation that it will look into the complaints. The 13th National Parliamentary Election and the concurrent national referendum are scheduled for February 12.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:01:22 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[&#039;deep conspiracy&#039; behind hacking  X account: Jamat]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/289" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/289</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has claimed that the X (formerly Twitter) account of its Ameer, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, was compromised in a targeted cyberattack, terming the incident a &quot;deep conspiracy&quot; designed to malign the party&#39;s leadership.

During an emergency press conference at the party&#39;s central office on Sunday morning, senior officials alleged that the attack was a calculated act of sabotage, potentially involving government infrastructure.

The briefing was called following public backlash over a controversial post regarding women that appeared on the Ameer&rsquo;s verified handle.

Assistant Secretary General Ehsanul Mahbub Zubair vehemently denied that the post was made by the party chief, attributing it to hackers who had temporarily seized control of the account.

Zubair stated that a General Diary (GD) was filed with the police on Saturday night and warned that the party would pursue maximum legal action against those responsible.

Mahmudur Rahman, a member of Jamaat&rsquo;s election management committee, presented digital evidence suggesting the involvement of official government channels in a broader cyber campaign.

During a presentation, the party displayed a log of malicious emails, including one sent from the address &#39;assistantprogrammer@bangabhaban.gov.bd&#39; to Jamaat&rsquo;s Dhaka South unit on January 10. Mahmudur described the source as a clear indication of sabotage, noting that the party had been subjected to multiple phishing attempts over the past month.

Party officials reported that the cyberattacks were not limited to the Ameer but also targeted other senior leaders, including Shafiqul Islam Masud and Delwar Hossain.

Jamaat leaders accused the cyber wing of a rival political group of orchestrating these breaches to create confusion among voters ahead of the elections. They called upon the Election Commission to take a strong stance and ensure digital security for political stakeholders.

Addressing the controversy surrounding the hacked post, Zubair reiterated that the content was diametrically opposed to Dr. Shafiqur Rahman&rsquo;s actual views on women.

He asserted that such &quot;hateful attempts&quot; by conspirators would fail to alter the public&rsquo;s perception of the party&#39;s ideology.

The party&rsquo;s media cell confirmed that their cyber team successfully regained control of the compromised accounts shortly after the breach.

Condemning the cyberattack in a Facebook post, the Jamaat Chief stated that his party supports women leadership in politics and local government, along with economic empowerment of rural women, strong legal protection and social respect, adding false and misleading content has been circulating on social media aimed at misrepresenting their position.

&ldquo;I am sharing this to clarify our values and to refocus the conversation on our policies. Our manifesto has been clear from day one. We want women active and respected in education, healthcare, administration, entrepreneurship and public service,&rdquo; he said.

Jamaat, he said, is committed to uninterrupted education for girls, safe campuses, zero tolerance for harassment, women-centred healthcare in every district, equal pay, safe workplaces, childcare support and skills training for dignified employment.

&ldquo;These are not new positions. I publicly set out these principles months ago and reaffirmed them at my Policy Summit on 20 January 2026,&rdquo; he said.

The Jamaat chief said these positions are not reactions to rumours or online noise but reflect a long-standing and consistent vision.

&ldquo;Judge me by my record, my policies and my manifesto, not by false narratives,&rdquo; he said, adding that he will formally launch his manifesto on February 3, where all these commitments will be detailed.

&ldquo;Our commitment is practical and measurable&mdash;safe education for girls, equal opportunity at work, women-centred healthcare, strong legal protection, economic dignity and real leadership for women,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;A Bangladesh that respects women is a Bangladesh that moves forward, and that is the future we are building,&rdquo; he added.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 13:46:35 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[current election is move forward: Nahid]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/285" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/285</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam on Saturday alleged that a neighbouring country is plotting various conspiracies surrounding country&rsquo;s upcoming election and warned that any attempt at foreign interference would be resisted by the people in unity.

He made the remarks while speaking as a special guest at an election rally held at Chauddagram Pilot High School ground of Chauddagram upazila in Cumilla district on Saturday.

Nahid Islam said the current election process is not an isolated or sudden development but a continuation of the July mass uprising, which, he claimed, made it possible for the country to move forward toward an election.

&ldquo;The anti-fascist movement aimed to establish a justice-based state where people&rsquo;s rights are ensured and accountability in governance is upheld,&rdquo; he said.

Alleging foreign involvement, Nahid Islam said the neighbouring country has taken an open stance against 11-party alliance by siding with a particular political force.

&ldquo;Such actions are against country&rsquo;s sovereignty and democratic spirit. If any neighbouring country attempts to interfere in the electoral process, the people of this country will respond collectively,&rdquo; he added.

He further said that if 11-party alliance forms the government, priority would be given to completing the unfinished tasks of the July uprising.

&ldquo;Our top priority will be ensuring justice for the martyrs of July mass uprising and expediting the trial of those responsible for the killing of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi,&rdquo; he said.

The rally was attended by Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman as the chief guest, while Jamaat&rsquo;s Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher presided over the programme.

Speakers at the rally called for unity to safeguard people&rsquo;s rights and urged all stakeholders to ensure a free, fair and impartial election.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sat, 31 Jan 2026 12:40:05 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
    </feed>
