The strengthening of democracy is not rooted in rigid doctrines but in the rhythms of everyday actions, behaviours, and practices of individual societies. Differences in opinions and approaches are inevitable; that is the beauty of democracy. It evolves with the needs of a people. Differences of political opinion or party aside, a common purpose unites us all - the aspiration to build a free, democratic, egalitarian, and humane Bangladesh. In the wake of the student-led and public uprising that toppled the previous autocratic regime, a rare and transformative opportunity has emerged to realise that common purpose. However, this opportunity is fragile. It must not be undermined by the schemes of exiled autocrats and their allies or by unnecessary divisions within the democratic forces dedicated to the nation’s progress. Vigilance and unity are imperative to safeguard this moment of potential. We need to continue putting the country's needs ahead of any personal or political gain. Establishing democratic norms won't be an easy path but I have full faith in the people of Bangladesh and their will to realise that norm.

I am deeply grateful to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, for graciously providing transportation and logistics for my mother, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Begum Khaleda Zia. On behalf of my family and the people of Bangladesh, I extend our heartfelt thanks for this support. We look forward to fostering lasting, multifaceted ties between Bangladesh and Qatar.

As we step into a transformative chapter for Bangladesh in the new year, let’s continue our endeavours for equality, dignity, and justice. We aspire to build a nation where every citizen matters and every voice is heard. Together, we will restore democracy, strengthen public institutions, revive the economy, and ensure political and economic empowerment of the people.

I extend my heartfelt condolences on the passing of former US President Jimmy Carter, an icon of peace, democracy, and human rights. As a global statesman, his unwavering commitment to justice and equality has left a lasting mark on the world. For Bangladesh, his legacy holds a special place. President Carter's support during our country's formative years and his warm relationship with President Ziaur Rahman were instrumental in strengthening the bond between our nations. His contributions will forever be cherished with deep respect and gratitude. May his life and principles continue to inspire generations to uphold the values of democracy and peace.

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of an era defined by political integrity, wisdom, and liberalism. His passion for economic reforms and vision for regional cooperation will remain a legacy of excellence. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of India.

Congratulations to the Bangladesh Cricket Team on their outstanding 3-0 clean sweep in the T20 series against the West Indies. This remarkable achievement is a testament to your unwavering dedication, exceptional teamwork, and extraordinary skills on the field. Such victories not only showcase your talent but also inspire millions across the nation, reinforcing the pride and passion we hold for cricket. As you continue to raise the bar, may this success propel you toward even greater accomplishments on the international stage. The entire nation stands united in celebrating your triumph.

This Victory Day, celebrated in an environment free from fascism, is certainly more joyful, glorious, and significant. I firmly believe that every future Independence and Victory Day in Bangladesh will symbolise the commitment of the state’s and government’s responsibilities to its people. We must harness this unity to build a Bangladesh free from discrimination and division. We must remember that without empowering the people, national unity cannot be strong or sustainable. Reforms are inevitable for achieving qualitative changes in the state and politics. The people have the right to know the interim government’s practical roadmap — what it plans to achieve and the timeframe required. To safeguard the state and government from the return of autocracy and fascism, fostering a democratic political culture in daily practices is as crucial as adhering to rules and provisions. A parliament composed of elected representatives, committed to reflecting the aspirations of the people through a public mandate, serves as the cornerstone of democratic governance in both the state and society. The political power of the people is truly secured when an accountable government and a functioning parliament work in harmony.

Standing in solidarity with the courageous people of South Korea as they continue their stand for democracy. In Bangladesh, we have endured a repressive regime for over a decade, and so we deeply understand the pain, resilience, and resolve it takes to confront oppression. Both our nations know the dangers of elected governments exploiting democratic loopholes for their own purposes. Yet, the triumphs of democracy-loving citizens in Bangladesh and South Korea are a testament to an undeniable truth: no individual or group can overcome the unwavering will of a free and determined people. To safeguard the future, it is imperative that both political leaders and citizens remain ever vigilant, ensuring that democracy is never subverted again. By building strong democratic institutions, we can protect the rights of our people and secure a just and free society. Together, we strive for justice, liberty, and enduring democracy. #Democracy #Bangladesh #SouthKorea

Heartfelt congratulations to the Bangladesh U-19 cricket team for their deserving victory in the final of the U19 Asia Cup against India! Your hard work, determination, and teamwork have made the nation proud. This victory is a testament to the bright future of Bangladesh cricket. #Tigers #U19AsiaCupChampions

A recent report by the White Paper Preparation Committee on Bangladesh's Economic Condition reveals an unprecedented scale of corruption under Sheikh Hasina’s government, underscoring the dire state of our nation’s financial health. The findings paint a grim picture, exposing her administration as a kleptocracy defined by systematic looting of public resources. Over the past 15 years, an estimated $240 billion has been siphoned out of Bangladesh. Among the most glaring examples of this plunder are 29 large-scale development projects, where $8 billion was misappropriated under the guise of inflated budgets. The so-called "quick rental" energy projects, which were promoted as solutions to infrastructure challenges, have proven to be schemes designed for rapid profiteering at the expense of the public. Analysts warn that a deeper investigation into the banking sector would likely uncover an even darker reality. These revelations reaffirm the urgent need for sweeping reforms to address corruption and rebuild the economy. Our party, the BNP, along with allied partners, has proposed a 31-point reform agenda to tackle these systemic failures. Central to this agenda is the establishment of an effective Anti-Corruption Commission, as outlined in the 13th point. This institution, if implemented, will play a critical role in ending the rampant misappropriation of public funds and ensuring accountability across all sectors. Furthermore, the 15th point of our proposal advocates for the creation of an Economic Reform Commission. This initiative aims to bring transparency to economic governance, strengthen public institutions, and foster a corruption-free administration led by competent and accountable leaders. The government must act immediately to recover the stolen wealth and prosecute those responsible for these crimes. Justice must be swift and uncompromising to restore the people’s faith in governance and to ensure that such abuses of power never recur. The BNP remains committed to building a transparent, accountable, and equitable system for all Bangladeshis. The time for change is now—our nation cannot afford further mismanagement.

Since the fall of autocrat Sheikh Hasina, there is an increase of inflammatory media commentary and political rhetoric against Bangladesh coming from certain Indian quarters. There is now an echo chamber filled with misinformation, fuelling persistent anti-Bangladesh sentiment. The latest attack on the Bangladeshi consulate in Agartala highlights the destabilising effects of disinformation, which only creates division and discord among neighbours. International stakeholders must acknowledge that a destabilised Bangladesh, with near about 200 million people, is not in the interest of any country. It is crucial to objectively understand what led to Hasina's ouster, what has been happening in Bangladesh since she fled to India, and why it’s imperative to forge people-to-people ties between Bangladesh and India, beyond any particular person or political party. Bangladesh faces many challenges, but we have largely been, and will remain, a land of religious harmony and territorial sovereignty, where the rights and freedoms of every citizen are protected, irrespective of race, caste, and religion. I urge my fellow Bangladeshis to show utmost restraint and not fall prey to any provocation.

The beauty of truth is that it inevitably triumphs over propaganda and conspiracy, giving us faith that, eventually, justice and fairness prevail. Let us unite to end political vengeance and open a new chapter in history, where no one’s life or family will be destroyed because of political differences. We pledge to uphold the spirit of democracy that thrives on diversity of faiths, beliefs, and ideologies, empowering the people of Bangladesh to define their own fate through electoral participation. In that journey, we aspire to establish the rule of law, human rights, and freedom of expression, safeguarding the rights and liberties of every citizen and building an inclusive, tolerant, and rules-based society.

The more we delay democratic elections taking place in Bangladesh, the more the broken systems instilled by Awami League for their own gains will be exacerbated. We cannot move forward in building a better Bangladesh when society wide issues in public healthcare, education system, difficulties faced by farmers, challenges for businesses, political biases in the judiciary and civil service exist. Only an elected government, chosen by the people of Bangladesh through the exercising of their voting rights, can begin rebuilding the nation. The public's choice of representatives will be respected and the representatives in turn must serve the public. Both sides must be involved actively in governance so that Bangladesh can ensure equality, inclusivity, and development for all.

When I personally speak of reform, I envision transformative change that enhances people’s lives – not mere revisions to a few constitutional paragraphs. 'Reform' for me means ensuring livelihood, socio-economic advancements, and financial security for every family. 'Reform' must address unemployment by creating jobs for all and ensure the dignity, freedom, and empowerment of women and minorities. 'Reform' should guarantee the safety and welfare of all citizens. It must provide our youth with modern education and moral values. It has to deliver the healthcare system that people deserve. It must stabilize the market and control prices of essential goods and services. 'Reform' needs to establish fair wages for farmers, labourers, and people from every working segment of Bangladesh. The people of Bangladesh deserve these transformations in their lives and for the future of their children.

Yesterday, Dr Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Interim Government of Bangladesh, faced targeted physical harassment from the Awami League activists at Geneva airport. This disrespectful behaviour on foreign soil has not only caused a stir, but also seen as an affront to both national dignity and the stature of public office. Sheikh Hasina’s international conspiracies continue to complicate the political landscape in Bangladesh. Her supporters abroad are allegedly engaged in organised efforts to undermine democratic voices and stoke tension within the country. Awami League activists overseas have a historic record of assaulting Bangladeshi advocates and activities of democracy and human rights, perhaps as an extension of their autocratic rule and atrocities over the last 16 years, including human rights violations, erosion of freedom of expression and rule of law, and misappropriation of public resources. For many, the growing influence of these overseas Awami League affiliates are a cause for concern. I condemn this disrespect and incivility against Dr Asif Nazrul as emblematic of the Awami League’s conspiracy to complicate our democratic transition and assault democratic norms. Scare tactics and threats from them will not be tolerated by the public in silence any longer. Pro-democracy advocates across the world are calling for foreign authorities to investigate their crimes and atrocities. In Bangladesh, public sentiment is gearing towards turning away from the individuals who have mistreated our country and its people, fuelling widespread appeal for stronger protection of democratic rights and the rule of law.

Congratulations to President-elect @realDonaldTrump on his electoral victory. We look to a future of strengthened ties and collaboration between our two nations. This victory demonstrates America's robust democratic processes. The people of Bangladesh are eager to move forward with their own free and fair elections, and cement our shared commitment to democratic values and fundamental freedoms.

Country-wide reforms are at the forefront of the political conversation now, and BNP, historically, always worked for forward-thinking reforms, aimed at changing people’s lives and transforming our country. What is the main purpose of these reforms? Reforms are necessary to adapt to the evolving world and ensure that Bangladesh can compete at a global level across various sectors. However, having started my political work from the grassroots level in Bangladesh, at its core, I believe reforms should revolve around lifting the millions of common people across Bangladesh to live better lives, allowing them to dream of a brighter future for their children and driving tangible change in the fabric of our nation. True reforms are those that uplift the lives of our people, creating employment for the unemployed, safeguarding the freedoms and rights of women, children and minorities, guaranteeing public safety for all, ensuring quality education for our next generation, and providing essential healthcare services to all; thus fostering equality, justice, and fairness.

I congratulate the Bangladesh Women’s Football Team for retaining the SAFF Women’s Championship title with a thrilling victory over Nepal in the final. This achievement marks a historic moment for women’s empowerment and reflects our vision of a progressive Bangladesh, thriving in equality and sportsmanship. We hope to see this success multiplied in other sporting endeavours by both Bangladesh's men's and women's teams on the international stage.

I congratulate the Bangladesh Women’s Football Team for retaining the SAFF Women’s Championship title with a thrilling victory over Nepal in the final. This achievement marks a historic moment for women’s empowerment and reflects our vision of a progressive Bangladesh, thriving in equality and sportsmanship. We hope to see this success multiplied in other sporting endeavours by both Bangladesh's men's and women's teams on the international stage.

I believe every Bangladeshi citizen must enjoy equal rights, freedoms, and protections without any distinction between Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, or Christian. Our country belongs to all Bangladeshis, and as a united nation, we stand to form a collective community 'shield' and set an example by ensuring the safety of everyone, regardless of their identity or background. I extend warm greetings to all those celebrating this joyous Durga Puja. May this festival bring peace, harmony, and prosperity to every household, and foster cohesion and togetherness among all communities.