World Defense Forum
[🇧🇩] Monitoring Khaleda Zia's political and health issues
- By Saif
- Bangladesh Defense Forum
- 15 Replies
Khaleda Zia to attend public rally after 7 yrs
BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia will attend a rally of the Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal as the chief guest on 21 December. With this, she’s going to join a political programme for the first time in seven years.
en.prothomalo.com
Khaleda Zia to attend public rally after 7 yrs
Special Correspondent
Dhaka
Updated: 15 Dec 2024, 16: 19
BNP chairperson Khaleda ZiaFile photo
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Khaleda Zia will attend a rally of the Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal as the chief guest on 21 December. With this, she’s going to join a political programme for the first time in seven years.
Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal president Istiaq Aziz Ulfat told Prothom Alo today, Sunday, that he along with BNP standing committee member Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed met with party chairperson Khaleda Zia Saturday night.
He said that they invited the BNP chairperson to attend the rally of the Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal as the chief guest.
Istiaq Aziz Ulfat mentioned that former prime minister Khaleda Zia has accepted their invitation and promised to attend the rally in person. Acting chairperson of BNP, Tarique Rahman will also join the rally virtually from London.
The rally is being organised at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in the city at 2:00 pm on 21 December.
BNP along with its associated and affiliated organisations is holding different programmes on the occasion of the victory day. The Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal is organising that rally as part of the programmes.
Ishtiaq Aziz Ulfat further stated that the freedom fighters will be coming to Dhaka from all over the country and join the rally on 21 December.
The last time BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia had addressed a rally of her party was on 12 November 2017 at the Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka. Later, she was arrested on 8 February 2018.
Khaleda Zia was sentenced to imprisonment in two cases of corruption under the rule of the then government of Bangladesh Awami League. She was in prison for more than two years.
Then on 25 March 2020, the government suspended her sentence to free her on conditions through an executive order. Since then the government had been extending the suspension on her sentence every six months based on appeals.
After ruling for 15 and a half years at a stretch, the AL government fell in the face of a mass uprising led by students on 5 August. Khaleda Zia was freed with a presidential order the very next day on 6 August.
Regarding her release, a press release sent from the Bangabhaban, the official residence of the president, stated that Khaleda Zia has been freed following a meeting of President Mohammed Shahabuddin with chiefs of three services, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of Students Against Discrimination movement.
Khaleda Zia then attended a reception at Senakunja on the occasion of the Armed Forces day on 21 November after more than a decade. Now after seven years, she’s going to attend a political programme, a rally organised by the Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal on 21 December.
Speaking about this, BNP chairperson’s media wing official Shamsuddin Didar told Prothom Alo, “With the rally of freedom fighters, Khaleda Zia is joining a public rally or a political programme in a free environment after seven long years.”
Special Correspondent
Dhaka
Updated: 15 Dec 2024, 16: 19
BNP chairperson Khaleda ZiaFile photo
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Khaleda Zia will attend a rally of the Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal as the chief guest on 21 December. With this, she’s going to join a political programme for the first time in seven years.
Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal president Istiaq Aziz Ulfat told Prothom Alo today, Sunday, that he along with BNP standing committee member Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed met with party chairperson Khaleda Zia Saturday night.
He said that they invited the BNP chairperson to attend the rally of the Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal as the chief guest.
Istiaq Aziz Ulfat mentioned that former prime minister Khaleda Zia has accepted their invitation and promised to attend the rally in person. Acting chairperson of BNP, Tarique Rahman will also join the rally virtually from London.
The rally is being organised at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in the city at 2:00 pm on 21 December.
BNP along with its associated and affiliated organisations is holding different programmes on the occasion of the victory day. The Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal is organising that rally as part of the programmes.
Ishtiaq Aziz Ulfat further stated that the freedom fighters will be coming to Dhaka from all over the country and join the rally on 21 December.
The last time BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia had addressed a rally of her party was on 12 November 2017 at the Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka. Later, she was arrested on 8 February 2018.
Khaleda Zia was sentenced to imprisonment in two cases of corruption under the rule of the then government of Bangladesh Awami League. She was in prison for more than two years.
Then on 25 March 2020, the government suspended her sentence to free her on conditions through an executive order. Since then the government had been extending the suspension on her sentence every six months based on appeals.
After ruling for 15 and a half years at a stretch, the AL government fell in the face of a mass uprising led by students on 5 August. Khaleda Zia was freed with a presidential order the very next day on 6 August.
Regarding her release, a press release sent from the Bangabhaban, the official residence of the president, stated that Khaleda Zia has been freed following a meeting of President Mohammed Shahabuddin with chiefs of three services, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of Students Against Discrimination movement.
Khaleda Zia then attended a reception at Senakunja on the occasion of the Armed Forces day on 21 November after more than a decade. Now after seven years, she’s going to attend a political programme, a rally organised by the Jatiotabadi Muktijoddha Dal on 21 December.
Speaking about this, BNP chairperson’s media wing official Shamsuddin Didar told Prothom Alo, “With the rally of freedom fighters, Khaleda Zia is joining a public rally or a political programme in a free environment after seven long years.”
[🇧🇩] Inland Riverine Shipping
- By Saif
- Bangladesh Infrastructure
- 15 Replies
Foreigners showing more interest to invest in shipping sector, says Sakhawat
Shipping, and Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hussain on Sunday said foreigners have been showing more interest to invest in the country’s shipping, maritime and port infrastructure development sectors. “The government has already taken various steps f
Foreigners showing more interest to invest in shipping sector, says Sakhawat
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Dec 15, 2024 22:38
Updated :
Dec 15, 2024 22:38
Shipping, and Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hussain on Sunday said foreigners have been showing more interest to invest in the country’s shipping, maritime and port infrastructure development sectors.
“The government has already taken various steps for maritime sector development, including reducing the port congestion to ease imports-exports,” he said while speaking at a view-exchange with a delegation of the Shipping Reporters’ Forum at his ministry in Dhaka.
Sakhawat Hussain said the ministry has planned to build an international stander dockyard in Matarbari Deep Sea Port with support of the World Bank, reports BSS.
He said the ministry also took steps to increase facilities of carrying passengers and goods via waterway.
Besides, the shipping ministry has taken steps to turn Mongla Sea Port into an environmental friendly green port.
The present interim government is working relentlessly for the country and its people, he added.
The adviser urged the journalists to publish objective news for the development of the country.
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Dec 15, 2024 22:38
Updated :
Dec 15, 2024 22:38
Shipping, and Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hussain on Sunday said foreigners have been showing more interest to invest in the country’s shipping, maritime and port infrastructure development sectors.
“The government has already taken various steps for maritime sector development, including reducing the port congestion to ease imports-exports,” he said while speaking at a view-exchange with a delegation of the Shipping Reporters’ Forum at his ministry in Dhaka.
Sakhawat Hussain said the ministry has planned to build an international stander dockyard in Matarbari Deep Sea Port with support of the World Bank, reports BSS.
He said the ministry also took steps to increase facilities of carrying passengers and goods via waterway.
Besides, the shipping ministry has taken steps to turn Mongla Sea Port into an environmental friendly green port.
The present interim government is working relentlessly for the country and its people, he added.
The adviser urged the journalists to publish objective news for the development of the country.
[🇧🇩] Pharmaceutical Industry in Bangladesh
- By Saif
- Bangladesh Trade & Industry
- 20 Replies
Pakistan wants to import medicine from Bangladesh
Pakistan has shown its keenness to import medicine from Bangladesh...
www.newagebd.net
Pakistan wants to import medicine from Bangladesh
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka 15 December, 2024, 17:24
Pakistan high commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof calls on health adviser Nurjahan Begum at her office in Dhaka on Sunday. | UNB Photo
Pakistan has shown its keenness to import medicine from Bangladesh.
Pakistan high commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof expressed the interest when he called on health adviser Nurjahan Begum at her office on Sunday.
Bangladesh had made significant progress in the pharmaceutical sector, and Pakistan was interested in importing medicines from Bangladesh, said Maroof.
Healthcare, trade, and overall cooperation between the two countries came for discussion during the meeting.
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka 15 December, 2024, 17:24
Pakistan high commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof calls on health adviser Nurjahan Begum at her office in Dhaka on Sunday. | UNB Photo
Pakistan has shown its keenness to import medicine from Bangladesh.
Pakistan high commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maroof expressed the interest when he called on health adviser Nurjahan Begum at her office on Sunday.
Bangladesh had made significant progress in the pharmaceutical sector, and Pakistan was interested in importing medicines from Bangladesh, said Maroof.
Healthcare, trade, and overall cooperation between the two countries came for discussion during the meeting.
[🇹🇷] Turkish UAVs Destroyed SDF targets in Kamishli
- By LegionnairE
- Turkish Defense Forum
- 5 Replies
This is some old news from 2020 when Aksungur broke an endurance record by staying in the air for 49 hours without any refueling. This is why Turkish navy chose this platform.
www.defenceturk.net
AKSUNGUR İHA 49 saat havada kalarak rekor kırdı
49 saat havada kalarak 59'uncu test uçuşunu tamamlayan AKSUNGUR, 20.000 feet irtifada ay yıldızlı bayrağımızı gökyüzüne çizdi..
www.defenceturk.net
[🇧🇩-Navy] Submarine Warfare
- By Bilal9
- Bangladesh Navy
- 20 Replies
No auto translate option on the YT player for Bangla on those vids sadly.
I would like to listen to your pov but no speeko Bangla.
Is there a huge difference between. Mainstream Bangla across the borders ?
Pakistani folks' common street hindi/Urdu I can get easy. The properones I have a hard time figuring out... both Urdu and Hindi.
Bangla is the same across West Bengal and Bangladesh more or less. I clicked CC and it was showing English close captioning.
Hmmm...
I will post a gist, once I have a few minutes. Or others can.
@Saif bhai - do you want to give it a whirl please? If you think it is worthwhile.
The video is essentially clickbait.
[🇮🇷] A tale of two cities
- By Lulldapull
- Iranian Defense Forum
- 17 Replies
Pakistani's over on our other forum say Assad was bad no? Look what's happening in your own country:
Protesters, forces trade blame over violence in Gwadar
• Soldier martyred, lieutenant among 16 personnel injured, says ISPR • Mahrang claims hundreds of BYC supporters rounded up
www.dawn.com
[🇮🇳] France offers tech to make India Navy's submarines almost invisible in Indian Ocean Region
- By Sharma Ji
- Indian Defense Forum
- 6 Replies
really really big ones like ULCC/VLCC.. those maersk container giants, aircraft carriers.
post panamax, neo-panamax..
they be sitting ducks.. Malacca strait remains a choke point for the Chinese if they coming here to wage war.. lots of USN activity there.
I'll try later and articulate better with links and resources.. abhi sturday chal ra hai.
happy shaniwaar, all !
post panamax, neo-panamax..
they be sitting ducks.. Malacca strait remains a choke point for the Chinese if they coming here to wage war.. lots of USN activity there.
I'll try later and articulate better with links and resources.. abhi sturday chal ra hai.
happy shaniwaar, all !
[🇨🇳] Chinese Navy
- Chinese Defense Forum
- 12 Replies
Are you sure?
They have destroyers, quite a few (more in number than the Indian Navy).
China has approximately 42 destroyers in its navy, while India operates 12 guided-missile destroyers. The Chinese navy is rapidly expanding, which contributes to a significant numerical advantage over India's destroyer fleet.
In fact they are rivaling the US right now.
Unpacking China’s Naval Buildup
Already the world's largest navy, the People's Liberation Army Navy is positioned to overtake the U.S. Navy in several indicators of naval power within ten years.www.csis.org
I agree.
They are No 1 in number. However, so far as sophistication is concerned, we are far ahead. Our destroyers have world's best attack and defence missiles. Brahmos and MRSAM are best in class. Our destroyers have torpedo decoy, best in class radar mounted high to track sea skimming missiles. Our air defence missiles can stop a sea skimming missiles just a half k.m. away. We are far ahead in missile technology compared to China.We have just tested ram jet powered 340 k.m. BVR .
[🇧🇩] How the USA Impacts the relationship between Bangladesh and India?
- Bangladesh Strategic Affairs
- 3 Replies
India, US both need a stable Bangladesh
However, regardless of the nature of international involvement, the ultimate responsibility for a stable Bangladesh lies with its own people.www.thedailystar.net
India, US both need a stable Bangladesh
View attachment 9149
VISUAL: FATIMA JAHAN ENA
Before returning to Bangladesh and assuming the mantle of leading the interim government, Nobel Laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, in an interview with India's NDTV, stated that if Bangladesh becomes unstable, it will affect West Bengal, Myanmar, and the entire northeast India.
Now, West Bengal is bogged down in protests over a horrific case of rape and murder, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declaring that she is "ready to resign." The state of Manipur is on red alert as recent drone and rocket attacks have triggered a fresh wave of ethnic violence. Meanwhile, "Myanmar is plumbing the depths of the human rights abyss," according to James Rodehaver, United Nations human rights chief of the Myanmar team. If the situation in the Bay of Bengal does not seem like a powder keg ready to explode, one must be truly blind.
However, the recent visit of a US delegation to Bangladesh offers some hope that the world is concerned with the evolving situation in the region. By the time this column is published, a bilateral meeting will have taken place between Chief Adviser Prof Yunus and US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. On September 15, the inter-agency US delegation that met with the chief adviser included Brent Neiman, assistant secretary for the Department of Treasury; Donald Lu, assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs; Änjali Kaur, USAID deputy assistant administrator for Asia; and Brendan Lynch, assistant US trade representative.
During the visit, USAID signed a development agreement worth over $200 million with the interim government to support Bangladesh in advancing development, strengthening governance, expanding trade, and creating greater opportunities for the Bangladeshi people to build a brighter and more prosperous future. From 2021 to 2026, USAID has committed nearly $1 billion in support.
Sources in the finance ministry indicate that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) may provide $900 million in budgetary support to Bangladesh by March 2025. Earlier this month, the interim government also requested $1 billion from the World Bank for the energy and power sector, along with another $1 billion for banking sector reforms. This is part of a broader effort to secure $8 billion from multilateral lenders and development partners to replenish the country's foreign exchange reserves and stabilise the economy.
One of Prof Yunus's key strengths is his appeal in the West, which is likely a significant factor in the potential inflow of foreign currency to support the interim government. These developments are critical at a time when Bangladesh is experiencing significant internal unrest. There are speculations that many forces, both within and outside the country, are actively working to discredit the government in any way possible, whether through inciting violence by exploiting religious sentiments, dividing the population with bad-faith identity politics, or organising misinformation campaigns to obscure the truth and paint the nation in the worst possible light.
The Yunus-Biden bilateral meeting, as well as the recent visit by the US delegation underscore the country's commitment to supporting Bangladesh's development and political stability under the interim government. By signing a development agreement through USAID and subsequently holding a bilateral meeting, the US has made it clear that it recognises the strategic importance of Bangladesh. Washington's backing, however, isn't just economic; it's also a strategic signal to regional powers that the situation in Bangladesh is of global concern. This development aligns with US interests in South Asia, particularly regarding regional stability, which is a cornerstone of its broader Indo-Pacific strategy.
Regardless of the nature of international involvement, the ultimate responsibility for the stability of a nation lies with its own people. While geostrategic partners like the US and India can offer financial support and diplomatic engagement, it is up to the people of Bangladesh to ensure that their nation remains stable.
India, as Bangladesh's closest neighbour, also has a vital role to play in ensuring that its own security interests align with Bangladesh's stability. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government must ensure that extremist voices within India do not agitate the situation across the border. For instance, recent remarks by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the militaristic language and posturing by other political actors do not bode well for diplomatic de-escalation and mutual cooperation. Indian policymakers should exercise caution so that domestic issues are not exploited to create friction between the two countries.
More importantly, India must adopt a balanced approach, combining diplomatic engagement with Bangladesh and ensuring that no internal forces within India undermine efforts for stability. Given the ethnic and religious diversity in India's northeast region and Bangladesh's proximity, any instability in Bangladesh will most definitely spill over, affecting not only West Bengal but also states like Assam and Tripura. It's in India's own security interest to support the interim government in Dhaka, providing assistance where possible to counter both external and internal threats.
Regardless of the nature of international involvement, the ultimate responsibility for the stability of a nation lies with its own people. While geostrategic partners like the US and India can offer financial support and diplomatic engagement, it is up to the people of Bangladesh to ensure that their nation remains stable. Some questions have already been raised about the competence of the interim government and its lack of urgency. This is not a good sign. It will need to navigate each new political challenge promptly and carefully, ensuring that democratic institutions remain functional and that extremist groups are not able to exploit any governance vacuums. It should also pave the way for an election that is free, fair and inclusive, which in itself is a daunting task.
In these unstable times, civil society and the media, in particular, will need to step up their activities drastically, countering the ongoing waves of misinformation campaigns and holding the reality on the ground for all of the world to see. The youth, intellectuals, business communities and political parties have a significant part to play in ensuring that polarisation does not destabilise the country further. This is a critical moment for Bangladesh; the future rests in the hands of the Bangladeshi people. The people who came out on the streets and gave their lives to dethrone an autocrat must now step up again and resist divisive forces. This is the only way to remake Bangladesh into a more prosperous and peaceful nation.
Zillur Rahman is executive director at the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) and a television talk show host.
India certainly need a stable BD but US doesn't. If BD turns hostile towards India, India will have one more front to manage. US's deep state believe in keeping the world unstable to maintain their superiority in whole world. So definitely it is US's agenda and currently, toppling of Shaikh Hasina government is the step in that direction.
[🇨🇳] China-Taiwan Feud
- By Saif
- Chinese Defense Forum
- 16 Replies
Any drills around Taiwan ‘decided by us alone’
China’s defence ministry said yesterday that any drills it may hold around Taiwan “are decided by us alone”, as Taipei announced the apparent end of massive military exercises not formally declared by Beijing.
Any drills around Taiwan ‘decided by us alone’
Says China’s defence ministry
China's defence ministry said yesterday that any drills it may hold around Taiwan "are decided by us alone", as Taipei announced the apparent end of massive military exercises not formally declared by Beijing.
Taiwanese authorities said this week that Beijing was holding its biggest maritime drills in years, deploying dozens of warships and coast guard vessels in an area stretching from near the southern islands of Japan to the South China Sea.
Hsieh Ching-chin, deputy director general of Taiwan's coast guard, said yesterday that the ships had returned to China, adding that Taipei considered the manoeuvres to be "over".
Asked about the alleged drills yesterday, Wu Qian, a spokesman for Beijing's defence ministry, did not confirm whether they had taken place.
But he said that "whether or not we hold exercises, and when we hold them, are decided by us alone, based on our own needs and the circumstances of our struggle".
"Safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity, the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation, and the common interests of compatriots across the Taiwan Strait are the (military's) sacred duties," Wu said.
"No matter whether it holds exercises, the People's Liberation Army will not be absent or soft-hearted when it comes to striking down (Taiwanese) 'independence' and pushing for unification," he said, referring to the Chinese armed forces.
Any effort by Taipei to achieve independence "will inevitably be strictly punished and are doomed to failure", Wu said.
Says China’s defence ministry
China's defence ministry said yesterday that any drills it may hold around Taiwan "are decided by us alone", as Taipei announced the apparent end of massive military exercises not formally declared by Beijing.
Taiwanese authorities said this week that Beijing was holding its biggest maritime drills in years, deploying dozens of warships and coast guard vessels in an area stretching from near the southern islands of Japan to the South China Sea.
Hsieh Ching-chin, deputy director general of Taiwan's coast guard, said yesterday that the ships had returned to China, adding that Taipei considered the manoeuvres to be "over".
Asked about the alleged drills yesterday, Wu Qian, a spokesman for Beijing's defence ministry, did not confirm whether they had taken place.
But he said that "whether or not we hold exercises, and when we hold them, are decided by us alone, based on our own needs and the circumstances of our struggle".
"Safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity, the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation, and the common interests of compatriots across the Taiwan Strait are the (military's) sacred duties," Wu said.
"No matter whether it holds exercises, the People's Liberation Army will not be absent or soft-hearted when it comes to striking down (Taiwanese) 'independence' and pushing for unification," he said, referring to the Chinese armed forces.
Any effort by Taipei to achieve independence "will inevitably be strictly punished and are doomed to failure", Wu said.
[🇧🇩] Bangladesh cricketer Shakib fined Tk 50 lakh for manipulating share prices
- By Saif
- Bangladesh Culture & Arts
- 1 Replies
ECB suspends Shakib for illegal bowling action
Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been slapped with a suspension by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after his bowling action was found to be illegal at independent testing at Loughborough University earlier this month, reports ESPNCricinfo.
ECB suspends Shakib for illegal bowling action
Shakib Al Hasan. Photo: AFP
Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been slapped with a suspension by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after his bowling action was found to be illegal at independent testing at Loughborough University earlier this month, reports ESPNCricinfo.
This suspension, which officially began on December 10, would not allow Shakib to bowl in any competition organised by the ECB.
According to section 11.3 of ICC Regulations for the Review of Bowlers Reported with Suspected Illegal Bowling Actions, ICC and and other cricket boards can also enforce this suspension. The section 11.3 states that "In circumstances where a National Cricket Federation suspends a player from bowling in domestic cricket under its own rules, where such suspension is imposed on the basis of an analysis of the respective player conducted by an Accredited Testing Centre and in accordance with the Standard Analysis Protocols, such suspension shall be respected and enforced by the ICC in International Cricket and all National Cricket Federations in respect of domestic cricket under their jurisdiction automatically upon receipt of notice of the same, without the need for any further formality. The ICC and National Cricket Federations shall take all steps legally available to them to enforce and give effect to such decisions".
Shakib, who has not played international cricket for Bangladesh since the series against India in September-October, will have to pass an independent assessment and prove that his degree of elbow extension is below the 15-degree threshold laid out in the regulations in order to overturn the ban.
The left-arm spinner's action had been called into question by the umpires during his lone appearance for Surrey against Somerset in the County Championship between September 9-12.
Shakib had bowled more than 63 overs in that fixture and claimed nine wicket. Even though he was not no-balled at any stage for throwing, the on-field umpires Steve O'Shaughnessy and David Millns, subsequently deemed his bowling action to be suspect.
The all-rounder is currently in Sri Lanka, taking part in the Lanka T10 for Galle Marvels.
Shakib Al Hasan. Photo: AFP
Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been slapped with a suspension by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after his bowling action was found to be illegal at independent testing at Loughborough University earlier this month, reports ESPNCricinfo.
This suspension, which officially began on December 10, would not allow Shakib to bowl in any competition organised by the ECB.
According to section 11.3 of ICC Regulations for the Review of Bowlers Reported with Suspected Illegal Bowling Actions, ICC and and other cricket boards can also enforce this suspension. The section 11.3 states that "In circumstances where a National Cricket Federation suspends a player from bowling in domestic cricket under its own rules, where such suspension is imposed on the basis of an analysis of the respective player conducted by an Accredited Testing Centre and in accordance with the Standard Analysis Protocols, such suspension shall be respected and enforced by the ICC in International Cricket and all National Cricket Federations in respect of domestic cricket under their jurisdiction automatically upon receipt of notice of the same, without the need for any further formality. The ICC and National Cricket Federations shall take all steps legally available to them to enforce and give effect to such decisions".
Shakib, who has not played international cricket for Bangladesh since the series against India in September-October, will have to pass an independent assessment and prove that his degree of elbow extension is below the 15-degree threshold laid out in the regulations in order to overturn the ban.
The left-arm spinner's action had been called into question by the umpires during his lone appearance for Surrey against Somerset in the County Championship between September 9-12.
Shakib had bowled more than 63 overs in that fixture and claimed nine wicket. Even though he was not no-balled at any stage for throwing, the on-field umpires Steve O'Shaughnessy and David Millns, subsequently deemed his bowling action to be suspect.
The all-rounder is currently in Sri Lanka, taking part in the Lanka T10 for Galle Marvels.
[🇧🇩] SAARC---Can it be revived?
- By Saif
- Bangladesh Strategic Affairs
- 4 Replies
Dr Yunus reiterates call for activating SAARC
South Asia will be benefited from activating SAARC which remained dysfunctional due to some issues between India and Pakistan, he says
en.prothomalo.com
Dr Yunus reiterates call for activating SAARC
BSS
Dhaka
Published: 12 Dec 2024, 21: 37
Chief adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus has reiterated his call to the South Asian leaders to activate the SAARC to bring for the people of entire region.
"South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is very important to me. I spoke about activating the forum immediately after taking oath as the chief adviser,” he said.
The chief adviser was addressing a conference of the SAARC Federation of Oncologists (SFO) through videoconference from the state guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Thursday.
A delegation of SFO also met chief adviser Dr Yunus at the Jamuna.
The chief adviser said whole South Asia will be benefited from activating SAARC which remained dysfunctional due to some issues between India and Pakistan.
“Problems between the two countries should not affect other countries in South Asia,” he said adding that “If South Asian leaders meet every year, stand together and take pictures; then a message goes to the whole world that we are united. This will present the South Asian countries before the world in a positive way and will help us move forward.”
During the meeting, the chief adviser paid tribute to SFO founder ABMF Karim and recalled his memories with him.
At that time, Dr Yunus also remembered his younger brother, also writer and television personality Muhammad Jahangir, and shared the sufferings that his entire family had gone through after his brother diagnosis with cancer.
The chief adviser highlighted how ABMF Karim helped him in the treatment of his brother at that time.
“We are still not getting the technical support we need for cancer treatment. The role of SAARC in providing treatment to cancer patients is very inspiring," he added.
BSS
Dhaka
Published: 12 Dec 2024, 21: 37
Chief adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus has reiterated his call to the South Asian leaders to activate the SAARC to bring for the people of entire region.
"South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is very important to me. I spoke about activating the forum immediately after taking oath as the chief adviser,” he said.
The chief adviser was addressing a conference of the SAARC Federation of Oncologists (SFO) through videoconference from the state guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Thursday.
A delegation of SFO also met chief adviser Dr Yunus at the Jamuna.
The chief adviser said whole South Asia will be benefited from activating SAARC which remained dysfunctional due to some issues between India and Pakistan.
“Problems between the two countries should not affect other countries in South Asia,” he said adding that “If South Asian leaders meet every year, stand together and take pictures; then a message goes to the whole world that we are united. This will present the South Asian countries before the world in a positive way and will help us move forward.”
During the meeting, the chief adviser paid tribute to SFO founder ABMF Karim and recalled his memories with him.
At that time, Dr Yunus also remembered his younger brother, also writer and television personality Muhammad Jahangir, and shared the sufferings that his entire family had gone through after his brother diagnosis with cancer.
The chief adviser highlighted how ABMF Karim helped him in the treatment of his brother at that time.
“We are still not getting the technical support we need for cancer treatment. The role of SAARC in providing treatment to cancer patients is very inspiring," he added.
[🇧🇩] Political Activities of Awami League after Hasina's Regime Fall
- By Saif
- Bangladesh Defense Forum
- 10 Replies
India denies giving any facility to Hasina for political activities
Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri told a parliamentary committee that Sheikh Hasina was using ‘private communication devices’ to make her comments and India was not...
www.newagebd.net
India denies giving any facility to Hasina for political activities
Staff Correspondent 12 December, 2024, 15:38
Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri. | UNB photo
Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri told a parliamentary committee that Sheikh Hasina was using ‘private communication devices’ to make her comments and India was not involved in providing her with any platform or facility that enabled her to carry out her political activity from Indian soil.
He made the comments in his briefing to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs on his recent visit to Bangladesh, which was the first-high profile visit from New Delhi to Dhaka since Hasina’s downfall, Indian media reported on Wednesday.
He also told the panel that an early national election in Bangladesh was also expected, the Hindu reported.
It reported that Vikram described Hasina’s criticism of the interim government of Bangladesh as a pinprick and that India did not endorse deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Vikram Misri told the parliamentary committee that Hasina was present in India in line with its culture and civilisational ethos of protecting friends, reported Indian Express.
Vikram made the comment when the parliamentary body sought to know the status of Hasina in India, where the deposed prime minister of Bangladesh went on August 5 fleeing a student-people uprising against her misrule of 15 years.
Most of the Indian media reports on Vikram’s briefing tsaid that his reply to the question of Hasina’s status was either not known or that he avoided replying.
Diplomatic tension between the two neighbouring countries recently ran high. India is accused by protesters in Bangladesh of acting like a big brother, taking advantage of Bangladesh by its sheer size.
The Hindu reported Vikram saying that India did not view the relation with Bangladesh as one based on ‘reciprocity’ but as one that was grounded on ‘good neighbourly relationship.’
Vikram also informed the committee that the issue of review of bilateral treaties did not feature in his conversation with chief adviser Yunus, the Hindu said.
Vikram said that India was concerned about the lack of acknowledgement of the alleged incidents of violence against minority communities but welcomed the latest report that authorities in Bangladesh had arrested 88 people related to the violence against minorities after the fall of the Hasina government, the Hindu reported.
For India, he said, the Bangladesh authorities’ decision to release many of the convicted ‘terrorists’ who indulged in anti-India rhetoric, remained an issue of deep concern. The Bangladesh authorities, meanwhile, flagged the ‘disinformation’ campaign in the Indian press about the events unfolding in that country.
Some parliamentary committee members raised the arrest of ISKCON monks in Bangladesh, the Hindu reported, but Vikram made no reply.
Vikram, however, told the committee that during his visit to Dhaka, he informed the authorities there that there had to be an ‘acknowledgment’ of the incidents of attacks on temples and the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre.
He said that while there was an attempt by the interim government of Bangladesh to describe the reports as exaggeration or media creation, there were ‘credible’ organisations that documented some of the incidents that required to be addressed.
Staff Correspondent 12 December, 2024, 15:38
Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri. | UNB photo
Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri told a parliamentary committee that Sheikh Hasina was using ‘private communication devices’ to make her comments and India was not involved in providing her with any platform or facility that enabled her to carry out her political activity from Indian soil.
He made the comments in his briefing to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs on his recent visit to Bangladesh, which was the first-high profile visit from New Delhi to Dhaka since Hasina’s downfall, Indian media reported on Wednesday.
He also told the panel that an early national election in Bangladesh was also expected, the Hindu reported.
It reported that Vikram described Hasina’s criticism of the interim government of Bangladesh as a pinprick and that India did not endorse deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Vikram Misri told the parliamentary committee that Hasina was present in India in line with its culture and civilisational ethos of protecting friends, reported Indian Express.
Vikram made the comment when the parliamentary body sought to know the status of Hasina in India, where the deposed prime minister of Bangladesh went on August 5 fleeing a student-people uprising against her misrule of 15 years.
Most of the Indian media reports on Vikram’s briefing tsaid that his reply to the question of Hasina’s status was either not known or that he avoided replying.
Diplomatic tension between the two neighbouring countries recently ran high. India is accused by protesters in Bangladesh of acting like a big brother, taking advantage of Bangladesh by its sheer size.
The Hindu reported Vikram saying that India did not view the relation with Bangladesh as one based on ‘reciprocity’ but as one that was grounded on ‘good neighbourly relationship.’
Vikram also informed the committee that the issue of review of bilateral treaties did not feature in his conversation with chief adviser Yunus, the Hindu said.
Vikram said that India was concerned about the lack of acknowledgement of the alleged incidents of violence against minority communities but welcomed the latest report that authorities in Bangladesh had arrested 88 people related to the violence against minorities after the fall of the Hasina government, the Hindu reported.
For India, he said, the Bangladesh authorities’ decision to release many of the convicted ‘terrorists’ who indulged in anti-India rhetoric, remained an issue of deep concern. The Bangladesh authorities, meanwhile, flagged the ‘disinformation’ campaign in the Indian press about the events unfolding in that country.
Some parliamentary committee members raised the arrest of ISKCON monks in Bangladesh, the Hindu reported, but Vikram made no reply.
Vikram, however, told the committee that during his visit to Dhaka, he informed the authorities there that there had to be an ‘acknowledgment’ of the incidents of attacks on temples and the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre.
He said that while there was an attempt by the interim government of Bangladesh to describe the reports as exaggeration or media creation, there were ‘credible’ organisations that documented some of the incidents that required to be addressed.
[🇧🇩] Hasina's fall and media personalities of Bangladesh and beyond
- By Saif
- Bangladesh Defense Forum
- 7 Replies
The media's role in Bangladesh 2.0
Beyond the immediate challenges of political interference and legal harassment, Bangladesh’s media faces deeper structural problems.
The media's role in Bangladesh 2.0
Visual: Anwar Sohel
The July-August 2024 uprising marked a historic turning point for Bangladesh. It was more than just a series of protests—it was a collective demand for a future built on accountability and transparency. Across cities and towns, the youth spearheaded this call for change. Their courage and determination resonated with millions, inspiring a vision of "Bangladesh 2.0," a new era that prioritises good governance, public interest, and systemic reform. A key expectation of this transformation was for the media to step up as a pillar of democracy.
Yet, as the movement's fervour begins to fade, troubling patterns suggest that the media's longstanding flaws remain largely unaddressed. While faces in positions of power have changed, the structures and practices that define Bangladesh's media landscape have shown remarkable resistance to change. For decades, the country's media has functioned less as a watchdog for democracy and more as a guard dog, protecting the interests of its owners rather than serving the people.
In Bangladesh, businessmen-politicians have dominated media ownership for years, turning some television channels and newspapers into tools of influence. These media houses, rather than pursuing independent journalism, have been used to shield their owners from tax scrutiny, evade customs regulations, and manoeuvre through bureaucratic hurdles. This entrenched dynamic has eroded the boundary between journalism and propaganda, leading to a loss of public trust in the media.
During the uprising, these media dynamics were laid bare for all to see. As students and citizens demanded justice on the streets, risking their lives, much of the media shied away from supporting them. Instead, some editors aligned themselves with the toppled regime, exposing where their true loyalties lay. Even when the regime fell, these outlets hesitated to question authority or challenge the narratives propagated by those in power. This reluctance underscores how deeply entrenched self-censorship and fear have become in Bangladesh's media ecosystem.
With the fall of the regime came a fleeting hope that the media would embrace its role as a cornerstone of democracy. The expectation was clear: a free press that would amplify the voices of the people, hold power to account and operate without fear or favour. However, the early signs of this so-called "Bangladesh 2.0" have been disheartening.
The chief adviser, for instance, is yet to engage in an open press conference—a crucial forum for accountability and transparency. Instead, he has opted for carefully curated interviews with senior editors who refrained from posing hard questions, opting instead to glorify his leadership. This pattern reflects a continuation of the old norms, where deference to authority outweighs the public's right to know.
Moreover, the harassment of journalists and media workers affiliated with the previous regime is a stark reminder of how vulnerable the press remains. Many reporters and television workers have been arrested and accused of crimes ranging from murder to corruption. While it is undeniable that some individuals supported the fallen regime in unethical ways, the arbitrary nature of these arrests raises serious concerns.
The filing of dubious cases against journalists undermines the rule of law and fosters a culture of fear. Justice cannot be served through vengeance. Even those who were complicit in the regime's wrongdoing deserve due process, not hasty, politically motivated accusations. When the legal system is weaponised to settle scores, it erodes trust in institutions and perpetuates a cycle of lawlessness.
Journalists already operate under immense pressure, facing job insecurity, political harassment, and limited protections. The abrupt criminalisation of media workers not only stifles dissent but also sends a chilling message to others in the profession: stay silent or risk retaliation. For a country striving to rebuild its democracy, this culture of fear is antithetical to progress. If "Bangladesh 2.0" is to succeed, justice must be pursued with fairness, transparency, and accountability—not as a tool for silencing dissent.
Beyond the immediate challenges of political interference and legal harassment, Bangladesh's media faces deeper structural problems. Most media organisations operate on unsustainable business models, heavily reliant on advertising revenue from politically connected corporations. This dependence limits their editorial independence and makes them susceptible to external pressures.
The financial instability journalists often face, in terms of low salaries, limited benefits and precarious working conditions, makes them vulnerable to coercion, undermining their ability to report fearlessly. Without a robust financial foundation, even the most courageous journalists cannot fulfil their roles as defenders of democracy.
Adding to this is the absence of a governing body for journalism. Unlike professions such as law or medicine, journalism in Bangladesh lacks a regulatory framework that sets ethical standards and ensures accountability. In the digital age, this vacuum has been filled by a flood of unverified information, with anyone wielding a smartphone claiming to be a journalist. This lack of professional accreditation and training has further eroded public trust in the media.
Reforming Bangladesh's media sector requires a multi-pronged approach. First and foremost, journalists and editors must reclaim their commitment to truth and public service. This will demand extraordinary courage, particularly in a political environment where questioning authority often invites retaliation.
However, courage alone is not enough. Structural reforms are essential to support fearless journalism. Media organisations must explore sustainable business models, such as subscription-based services or reader-funded journalism, to reduce their reliance on politically motivated advertisers. Policymakers, meanwhile, must enact legal protections for journalists, ensuring that they can report without fear of harassment or job loss.
An independent regulatory body for journalism is also imperative. Such an institution could establish accreditation standards, offer professional development programmes, and enforce ethical guidelines. By holding media practitioners accountable for their conduct, it could help restore public confidence in the press.
Despite the challenges, there are reasons for cautious optimism. The repeal of the Digital Security Act, a law that stifled free speech, is a step in the right direction. However, repealing harmful legislation is only the beginning. The true test lies in fostering a culture that values press freedom.
The media's role in this new era cannot be overstated. It must serve as a pillar of democracy, a guardian of the public interest, and a watchdog that holds power to account. This transformation will not happen overnight. It will require a collective commitment from journalists, media owners, policymakers, and civil society. This uprising envisioned a media landscape that amplifies the voices of the people, challenges authority and resists the pull of partisan agendas. Achieving this vision will demand courage, integrity, and systemic reform.
Change is never easy, and progress is rarely linear. But if the movement taught us anything, it's that the people of Bangladesh are ready to demand better. It is now up to the media to meet this moment, proving itself as a force for truth and accountability in this new chapter of the nation's history. The journey to "Bangladesh 2.0" has only just begun, and the media has a vital role to play in shaping its future.
Mahfuz Mishu is special correspondent for Jamuna Television.
Visual: Anwar Sohel
The July-August 2024 uprising marked a historic turning point for Bangladesh. It was more than just a series of protests—it was a collective demand for a future built on accountability and transparency. Across cities and towns, the youth spearheaded this call for change. Their courage and determination resonated with millions, inspiring a vision of "Bangladesh 2.0," a new era that prioritises good governance, public interest, and systemic reform. A key expectation of this transformation was for the media to step up as a pillar of democracy.
Yet, as the movement's fervour begins to fade, troubling patterns suggest that the media's longstanding flaws remain largely unaddressed. While faces in positions of power have changed, the structures and practices that define Bangladesh's media landscape have shown remarkable resistance to change. For decades, the country's media has functioned less as a watchdog for democracy and more as a guard dog, protecting the interests of its owners rather than serving the people.
In Bangladesh, businessmen-politicians have dominated media ownership for years, turning some television channels and newspapers into tools of influence. These media houses, rather than pursuing independent journalism, have been used to shield their owners from tax scrutiny, evade customs regulations, and manoeuvre through bureaucratic hurdles. This entrenched dynamic has eroded the boundary between journalism and propaganda, leading to a loss of public trust in the media.
During the uprising, these media dynamics were laid bare for all to see. As students and citizens demanded justice on the streets, risking their lives, much of the media shied away from supporting them. Instead, some editors aligned themselves with the toppled regime, exposing where their true loyalties lay. Even when the regime fell, these outlets hesitated to question authority or challenge the narratives propagated by those in power. This reluctance underscores how deeply entrenched self-censorship and fear have become in Bangladesh's media ecosystem.
With the fall of the regime came a fleeting hope that the media would embrace its role as a cornerstone of democracy. The expectation was clear: a free press that would amplify the voices of the people, hold power to account and operate without fear or favour. However, the early signs of this so-called "Bangladesh 2.0" have been disheartening.
The chief adviser, for instance, is yet to engage in an open press conference—a crucial forum for accountability and transparency. Instead, he has opted for carefully curated interviews with senior editors who refrained from posing hard questions, opting instead to glorify his leadership. This pattern reflects a continuation of the old norms, where deference to authority outweighs the public's right to know.
Moreover, the harassment of journalists and media workers affiliated with the previous regime is a stark reminder of how vulnerable the press remains. Many reporters and television workers have been arrested and accused of crimes ranging from murder to corruption. While it is undeniable that some individuals supported the fallen regime in unethical ways, the arbitrary nature of these arrests raises serious concerns.
The filing of dubious cases against journalists undermines the rule of law and fosters a culture of fear. Justice cannot be served through vengeance. Even those who were complicit in the regime's wrongdoing deserve due process, not hasty, politically motivated accusations. When the legal system is weaponised to settle scores, it erodes trust in institutions and perpetuates a cycle of lawlessness.
Journalists already operate under immense pressure, facing job insecurity, political harassment, and limited protections. The abrupt criminalisation of media workers not only stifles dissent but also sends a chilling message to others in the profession: stay silent or risk retaliation. For a country striving to rebuild its democracy, this culture of fear is antithetical to progress. If "Bangladesh 2.0" is to succeed, justice must be pursued with fairness, transparency, and accountability—not as a tool for silencing dissent.
Beyond the immediate challenges of political interference and legal harassment, Bangladesh's media faces deeper structural problems. Most media organisations operate on unsustainable business models, heavily reliant on advertising revenue from politically connected corporations. This dependence limits their editorial independence and makes them susceptible to external pressures.
The financial instability journalists often face, in terms of low salaries, limited benefits and precarious working conditions, makes them vulnerable to coercion, undermining their ability to report fearlessly. Without a robust financial foundation, even the most courageous journalists cannot fulfil their roles as defenders of democracy.
Adding to this is the absence of a governing body for journalism. Unlike professions such as law or medicine, journalism in Bangladesh lacks a regulatory framework that sets ethical standards and ensures accountability. In the digital age, this vacuum has been filled by a flood of unverified information, with anyone wielding a smartphone claiming to be a journalist. This lack of professional accreditation and training has further eroded public trust in the media.
Reforming Bangladesh's media sector requires a multi-pronged approach. First and foremost, journalists and editors must reclaim their commitment to truth and public service. This will demand extraordinary courage, particularly in a political environment where questioning authority often invites retaliation.
However, courage alone is not enough. Structural reforms are essential to support fearless journalism. Media organisations must explore sustainable business models, such as subscription-based services or reader-funded journalism, to reduce their reliance on politically motivated advertisers. Policymakers, meanwhile, must enact legal protections for journalists, ensuring that they can report without fear of harassment or job loss.
An independent regulatory body for journalism is also imperative. Such an institution could establish accreditation standards, offer professional development programmes, and enforce ethical guidelines. By holding media practitioners accountable for their conduct, it could help restore public confidence in the press.
Despite the challenges, there are reasons for cautious optimism. The repeal of the Digital Security Act, a law that stifled free speech, is a step in the right direction. However, repealing harmful legislation is only the beginning. The true test lies in fostering a culture that values press freedom.
The media's role in this new era cannot be overstated. It must serve as a pillar of democracy, a guardian of the public interest, and a watchdog that holds power to account. This transformation will not happen overnight. It will require a collective commitment from journalists, media owners, policymakers, and civil society. This uprising envisioned a media landscape that amplifies the voices of the people, challenges authority and resists the pull of partisan agendas. Achieving this vision will demand courage, integrity, and systemic reform.
Change is never easy, and progress is rarely linear. But if the movement taught us anything, it's that the people of Bangladesh are ready to demand better. It is now up to the media to meet this moment, proving itself as a force for truth and accountability in this new chapter of the nation's history. The journey to "Bangladesh 2.0" has only just begun, and the media has a vital role to play in shaping its future.
Mahfuz Mishu is special correspondent for Jamuna Television.
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