Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of the interim government, stated that since independence, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been serving as the "vigilant guards of the borders," safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty while preventing smuggling, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. He made these remarks on Friday (December 20) in a message marking “Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Day.” Extending warm greetings and congratulations to all members of BGB, Dr. Yunus said, “BGB is a distinguished institution with a glorious legacy. Its role in our Liberation War is unforgettable. For their extraordinary bravery during the war, two members of BGB, Lance Naik Noor Mohammad Sheikh and Lance Naik Munshi Abdur Rouf, were awarded the highest honor of Bir Shreshtha, along with 119 others receiving gallantry titles. Additionally, 817 courageous members of BGB sacrificed their lives, adding to the illustrious history of the force.” He further noted the commendable role of BGB in maintaining law and order across the country, especially in border regions, following the nationwide student-worker-public uprising in July and August. BGB’s efforts in responding to the recent devastating floods in the southeastern region have also been widely praised. The Chief Advisor expressed his hope that BGB members would continue to uphold the country’s independence and sovereignty with the highest level of patriotism, dedication, sincerity, and professionalism. Concluding his message, Dr. Yunus wished for the overall success and continued prosperity of Border Guard Bangladesh.

The ongoing crisis in Palestine is not merely a Muslim issue but a universal problem, said Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of the interim government. Dr. Yunus expressed deep concern over the current situation in Palestine during a special session on Thursday (December 19) at the D-8 Summit in Cairo. Praising the Egyptian government for organizing this special session to address the humanitarian crisis and reconstruction challenges in Gaza and Lebanon, Dr. Yunus remarked, "We have gathered here at a time when Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people in the occupied Gaza Strip and West Bank, coupled with a brutal genocide lasting 14 months, continues unabated. Words can barely capture the gravity of the situation. Even attempting to describe it reveals our profound frustration with Israel’s blatant disregard for longstanding international norms, laws, and conventions. The spread of violence into Lebanon heightens fears of escalating tensions. This poses devastating and long-term consequences for peace and stability across the region, potentially impacting not only the economy but also global society and politics." Dr. Yunus emphasized, "Palestinians are not a neglected people; every Palestinian life is precious. We must express solidarity with our Palestinian brothers and sisters, reaffirming our unity and unwavering commitment during this existential moment in their history." Calling for an independent and sovereign Palestine based on pre-1967 borders, he highlighted Bangladesh's historical support for the Palestinian cause. "Bangladesh has consistently stood firm in its condemnation of Israel’s illegal occupation and violent repression. We remain committed to a two-state solution as the path to a just and lasting resolution, where Israel and Palestine coexist in peace and harmony. Palestine must emerge as a fully independent and functional state, with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on the pre-1967 borders." Dr. Yunus also referenced Bangladesh’s engagement with the International Court of Justice (ICJ), stating, "In February, we outlined this issue extensively before the ICJ, which declared Israel’s occupation illegal. Both the ICJ's advisory opinion this year and its 2004 opinion provide critical legal grounds for this collective declaration." He asserted, "This is not merely a Muslim issue but a universal one—where the dignity of humanity itself is being tested. It is a matter of universal commitment to protecting the vulnerable, and undoubtedly, standing by them is our moral duty." Dr. Yunus condemned the massacres in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon as clear violations of international law and acts of war crimes. He demanded accountability for those responsible, mentioning that in November, Bangladesh called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) for a prompt investigation into these heinous crimes against humanity. Highlighting the stakes for Bangladesh, Dr. Yunus said, "Approximately 6 million Bangladeshi migrant workers and expatriate professionals live across this region, including Lebanon, contributing significantly to the development of Middle Eastern countries. Their security and well-being are at risk. We urge decisive and collective action from all external partners and stakeholders to put an end to Israeli brutality." He further stressed the need to prioritize reconstruction efforts in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon beyond immediate humanitarian intervention. "The United Nations has warned that clearing the 40 million tons of debris left by Israeli bombings could take at least 15 years. It is estimated that more than 10,000 bodies may be buried beneath the rubble. Therefore, the D-8 must initiate a process to estimate the reconstruction costs for Palestine and Lebanon, followed by the formulation of international strategies to mobilize resources." Concluding his remarks, Dr. Yunus extended his gratitude to President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi for his initiative and leadership in organizing the session. "Thank you for this opportunity," he said.

As in previous years, British magazine The Economist has chosen the best country of the year. This year, Bangladesh has won the title of The Economist's Country of the Year 2024 for the student-led uprising that ended 15 years of autocratic rule. According to a report published by The Economist on Thursday (December 19), five countries were in the final shortlist for the title of the best country of 2024. Besides Bangladesh, the other contenders were Syria, Argentina, South Africa, and Poland. After intense debate among The Economist's correspondents, Bangladesh was ultimately selected. Syria was the runner-up for ousting Bashar al-Assad from power. Additionally, Argentina was recognized for its economic reforms, while South Africa and Poland were shortlisted for forming new governments in opposition to poor governance. In its announcement, the British magazine clarified that the choice of the best country is not based on wealth, happiness, or moral superiority. Instead, the title is awarded to the country that has shown the most progress in the past 12 months. Why Bangladesh Stood Out In its report, The Economist stated, “Our winner this year is Bangladesh.” The report noted that in August, a student-led movement ousted Sheikh Hasina’s government, which had been in power for 15 years. Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of a freedom fighter, had once led Bangladesh’s rapid economic growth. However, over time, her rule turned increasingly repressive, with election rigging, jailing of opponents, and ordering security forces to shoot protesters. Corruption and misappropriation of funds also surged during her tenure. The report also pointed out the challenges associated with Bangladesh’s political transition, mentioning the history of retaliatory violence during such periods. It described the main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), as corrupt and highlighted the threat posed by the rise of Islamist extremism. However, it praised the interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, which has received support from students, the military, businesses, and civil society. The interim administration has restored order and stabilized the economy. The Economist's Perspective The report emphasized that Bangladesh's progress is promising, but challenges remain. The country must restore its relationship with India in 2025 and decide when to hold elections. It must first ensure judicial impartiality and allow opposition parties to organize—none of which will be easy. Still, Bangladesh’s strides toward forming a more liberal government after toppling an autocrat make it deserving of the title this year. Past Winners In 2023, Greece won the Country of the Year title for overcoming a prolonged financial crisis and re-electing a moderate, centrist government. Previous winners have included Colombia for ending its civil war, Ukraine for resisting Russian aggression, and Malawi for its strides toward democratization.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today said Bangladesh endeavoured to advance D-8 cooperation under quite challenging circumstances since assumption of D-8 Chairmanship in April 2021.   "We first battled the limitations and constraints in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic; and then the poly crisis that afflicted many of our countries, in so many ways," he said in his opening speech at D-8 summit held at Egypt capital of Cairo, according to a message received here.    As the outgoing Chairmanship of Bangladesh, Prof Yunus welcomed you the leaders of the member states at the 11th D-8 Summit.    He expressed his warmest felicitation to the Incoming Chair and the Host, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt, indeed for making the meticulous arrangements and gracious hospitality in the historic city of Cairo.   "I must complement the Government of Egypt for its unwavering commitment to the principles of the organisation in advancing our shared vision, for progress and cooperation," the chief adviser said.   During the Bangladesh' chairmanship of D-8, he said, establishment of the D-8 Youth Council, and ratification of D-8 Preferential Trade Agreement, during this time were particularly noteworthy.    Prof Yunus said this could not be accomplished with the member states' unwavering support, and understanding, of their collective interest.   He said Bangladesh is thankful to all the D-8 governments for the support extended throughout Bangladesh's Chairmanship, and the level of commitment shown in advancing our collective interests.    "While we officially hand over the Chairmanship to Egypt, I complement President El-Sisi for the theme of this Summit, "Investing in Youth and Supporting SMEs". It resonates aptly with our aspirations in D-8," he said.    The chief adviser said in times of changing world of work, the D-8 countries need to re-discover and re-position learning, regarding youth and work in the economy of tomorrow.    "Things often evolve too fast and gets difficult for governments to comprehend, and implement. But we must keep on recalibrating our efforts, to match the difficulties," he said.    Prof Yunus said, "As Bangladesh passes the baton to Egypt, let me affirm Bangladesh's unwavering support to the Egyptian Chairmanship in furtherance of our cooperative agenda."    He said Team Egypt, under wise leadership of President El-Sisi, can count on Bangladesh.    "May D-8 flourish, under Egypt's leadership, and help our countries accomplish greater freedom, stability, harmony and prosperity in an unpredictable world," Prof Yunus added. (Source: BSS)

Allegations have been filed with the International Crimes Tribunal against 57 individuals, including then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Army Chief General Moeen U Ahmed, regarding the February 25, 2009, Pilkhana massacre. On Thursday (December 19) afternoon, family members of the martyred army officers submitted the allegations to the tribunal. Among those present were Barrister Rakin Ahmed, son of then-BDR Director General Major General Shakil Ahmed; Ferdousi, wife of Colonel Mujibul Haque; and Sakib Rahman, son of Colonel Kudrat Elahi, along with 15-20 family members of the victims. The government has also formed a National Independent Commission to uncover the true causes of the Pilkhana massacre. On December 2, the state informed a High Court bench led by Justice Farah Mahbub that the matter is currently under review by the Ministry of Law. However, the court expressed dissatisfaction and directed the state to provide complete information about the commission. Previously, a public interest writ petition was filed in the High Court by Supreme Court lawyers Md. Tanvir Ahmed and Biplob Kumar Poddar due to a lack of response to legal notices regarding the formation of the commission. On November 6, the High Court directed the Home Secretary to resolve the petition within ten days. The court also issued a rule questioning why the inaction in forming the National Independent Commission should not be declared illegal and why directives should not be issued for its formation. Additionally, it sought clarification on why February 25 should not be declared "Martyrs’ Day for Army Officers." Background: The Pilkhana massacre on February 25-26, 2009, resulted in the deaths of 74 people, including 57 army officers, at the then-BDR headquarters. On February 28 of the same year, two cases—one for murder and one under the Explosives Act—were filed at Lalbagh Police Station, later transferred to New Market Police Station. The trials took place at a temporary courtroom near Dhaka Central Jail. On November 5, 2013, Dhaka’s Third Special Court announced its verdict, sentencing 152 individuals, including former BDR DAD Towhid, to death. Additionally, 160 individuals, including deceased BNP lawmaker Nasiruddin Ahmed Pintu and local Awami League leader Torab Ali, received life imprisonment, while 256 others were sentenced to various terms. Another 277 individuals were acquitted due to insufficient evidence. The case filed under the Explosives Act remains pending in the lower courts.

Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to deliver a speech at Egypt's Al-Azhar University in Cairo on Thursday, December 19. He is currently in Egypt on a two-day visit to attend the D-8 Summit. Deputy Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor, Abul Kalam Azad Majumdar, confirmed that Dr. Yunus will deliver the speech at the invitation of Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif Mosque. Earlier, Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb extended the invitation during a meeting with Dr. Yunus at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Baku, Azerbaijan, on November 12. The meeting took place during an international gathering where the Grand Imam requested Dr. Yunus to address the prestigious Egyptian university. During his visit, the Chief Advisor will also participate in the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation Summit, commonly known as the D-8 Summit, being held in Cairo on Thursday. The Deputy Press Secretary added that, on the sidelines of the summit, Dr. Yunus will hold bilateral meetings with several heads of state from D-8 member countries, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. On Wednesday, December 18, at 11:00 AM local time, Dr. Yunus and his delegation arrived in Cairo. The Chief Advisor's flight departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 1:20 AM on Tuesday night, heading for Egypt. The D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, also known as Developing-8, is a collaborative forum for economic development among Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has formed a five-member team to investigate corruption allegations against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and niece Tulip Siddiq, along with other family members. On Wednesday, December 18, senior ACC sources confirmed that the investigation team will be led by ACC Deputy Director Md. Salahuddin. Other members of the team include Deputy Director Md. Saiduzzaman, Assistant Director Afnan Jannat Keya, S.M. Rashedul Hasan, and A.K.M. Murtuza Ali Sagar. According to the ACC, the team will investigate allegations of corruption involving BDT21,000 crore across eight high-priority projects of the Awami League government. Additionally, it will look into alleged corruption of BDT59,000 crore in the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project. Earlier, on December 15, the High Court issued a ruling questioning the ACC’s inaction regarding allegations of embezzlement of USD5 billion (approximately BDT60,000 crore) from the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) project through Malaysian bank accounts allegedly linked to Sheikh Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and niece Tulip Siddiq. The ruling followed a writ petition filed on September 3 by Bobby Hajjaj, Chairman of the Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM), which challenged the ACC's inactivity in probing these allegations. The petition also questioned the legality of the ACC's inaction and named the ACC Chairman and other relevant officials as respondents. On Tuesday, December 17, ACC Director General (Prevention) Akhtar Hossain confirmed the investigation into the allegations against Sheikh Hasina and her family members. The allegations first came to light in reports published on August 19, citing data from Global Defense Corporation, which investigates corruption in military and defense sectors. These reports claimed that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and niece Tulip Siddiq embezzled USD5 billion from the RNPP project through Malaysian bank accounts.