Peace

On January 9, 2026, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), publicly voiced deep concerns about the country’s deteriorating security situation ahead of the polls, expressing dissatisfaction with the performance of law enforcement agencies.

The new campaign criticises the international community’s shift toward what the group calls “silence and normalization.” Despite widespread initial outrage, some countries have engaged with the Taliban on pragmatic grounds.

International human rights organisations have urged Dhaka to adopt urgent measures to curb hate speech, bolster protections for journalists, and prosecute individuals involved in mob violence.

The accord, signed at Singha Durbar on Wednesday, comes three months after mass protests shook the country.

As protests grow, human rights defenders are calling on Pakistan’s new administration to take immediate steps.

Those calling for reform are joined by civil society voices demanding international scrutiny. Some urge consumers abroad to avoid Burmese jade, pointing to its role in funding violence.

As the 38-day shutdown continues, both sides face mounting pressure. Unless the Torkham crossing reopens soon, the economic and human costs risk becoming permanent scars on bilateral trade.

Most of the parties represented in the now-dissolved House of Representatives voiced their commitment to proceed with the polls, signalling a shared desire for political renewal.