Corruption

Structural weaknesses persist: low GDP per capita, exposure to external shocks and natural disasters, and governance metrics that lag behind ‘BB’-category peers.

Congress and UML control over 300 of 753 units; performance there could rebuild trust. For Madhesh, the losses sting deepest, reigniting debates on inclusivity.

Supporters argue that Gates’ philanthropic contributions – saving millions of lives through vaccination programs – should not be overshadowed by past errors. Detractors highlight the hypocrisy in a figure promoting ethical global solutions while entangled in such controversies.

Failure to act, Ahmed cautioned, could derail Bangladesh’s economic aspirations, leaving businesses vulnerable and the nation grappling with stagnation.

Officials are optimistic that the successful conclusion of the MLA deal will provide the necessary momentum to finalise the new extradition treaty.

Filed under Article 32 of the Constitution on 6 February 2026, the petition seeks to declare Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act – along with Sections 17(1)(c), 17(2), 33(1), and 36 – ultra vires the Constitution.

This latest edict from Akhundzada, who rarely appears in public and rules from Kandahar, reinforces his absolute authority.

Experts warn that slowing global growth and elevated price levels could combine in a scenario akin to stagflation, while debt vulnerabilities across public, corporate and household sectors could amplify financial instability.