Full House at Russian House Dhaka for Powerful Documentary Screening: Call Sign "Bukhanka"

The Russian House in Dhaka hosted a compelling screening of the documentary film Call Sign 'Bukhanka' on February 23, 2026, drawing a full house of attendees eager to experience powerful contemporary storytelling.The event, held in the cinema hall at the Russian cultural center in Dhanmondi, formed part of the 4th International Film Festival RT.Doc: Time of Our Heroes, presented in partnership with the RT Documentary Channel.
The screening attracted film enthusiasts, students, members of the cultural and academic communities, and supporters of Russian culture in Bangladesh. It provided a vibrant space for viewers to engage with real-life narratives centered on human experiences, moral decisions, and resilience amid difficult circumstances.Produced by RT Documentary in 2025, Call Sign 'Bukhanka' pays tribute to the iconic UAZ-452 vehicle—affectionately nicknamed "Bukhanka" (or "loaf" due to its distinctive bread-like shape)—which has become a frontline symbol in challenging environments. The film follows military personnel and volunteers as the reliable vehicle transports the wounded, delivers humanitarian aid, and unites people facing hardship and danger, evolving from a simple transport into a symbol of solidarity and endurance.
Audiences showed strong engagement throughout the screening, with many reflecting deeply on the film's themes of courage, duty, personal responsibility, bravery, loyalty, and shared humanity. These universal values struck a chord, bridging Russian and Bangladeshi perspectives and underscoring the power of art to foster mutual understanding.
The packed venue and active participation highlighted growing local interest in documentary cinema and the role of cultural exchanges in building connections between nations.The Russian House in Dhaka extended thanks to all attendees, partners, and participants for their enthusiasm and support. The center looks forward to hosting more film screenings and cultural programs to encourage ongoing dialogue and exchange.

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Institutions of the country have been destroyed far more than we imagined: Nazrul Islam Khan

Pointing to the Awami League's 15-and-a-half years of misrule, Prime Minister's Political Advisor Nazrul Islam Khan said that various institutions of the country have been destroyed. "It is far more than we had thought." He attributed this devastation to partisanship (party-ization), nepotism (family-ization), corruption, misconduct, and appointing incompetent people to key positions.

He made these remarks as the chief guest at an event organized by Debate for Democracy at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) on Saturday (21 February) afternoon. The event was held to honor and award the winning teams of the Election Debate Competition-2026.

Prime Minister's Political Advisor Nazrul Islam Khan stated, "Various institutions of the country have been destroyed. It is far more than we had imagined. This catastrophe has occurred due to partisanship, nepotism, corruption, misconduct, and placing incompetent individuals in positions of responsibility."He further said, "We have no choice but to work standing on the ruins left behind by the Awami League. We must move forward by overcoming this. There is no other way. We have to move ahead." At the same time, he called on everyone to cooperate with the government from their respective positions.

In his presidential address, Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron said that people's expectations from the election were very high. "This election was not merely a change of power. It was an election to restore citizens' dignity, to return state power to the hands of the people, and to free the nation from the stigma of the disgraceful elections held under the previous government." He added that through a ballot revolution, the people have entrusted the BNP with the responsibility of running the state.He further noted, "We are already observing that after assuming the responsibilities of Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, along with his cabinet and advisors, is sending multifaceted messages aimed at establishing a government of the people, restoring lost democracy, ensuring good governance, and accountability. This is making us optimistic. We hope that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the newly formed government will gradually implement the promises given in their election manifesto."

Among others who spoke as guests at the event were: Vice-Chancellor of State University Professor Dr. Md. Akhtar Hossain Khan, Professor Abu Mohammad Rois, Professor Dr. Nahreen Islam Khan, Professor Dr. Afroza Begum, and Professor Sikta Das.

In the competition organized by Debate for Democracy, State University of Bangladesh became the champion, Eden Mohila College secured first runner-up, and Tejgaon College became second runner-up. The best speaker was selected as Masnun Nabilah Alam from Eden Mohila College.

The champion team received BDT 200,000, first runner-up BDT 150,000, and second runner-up BDT 100,000 as prize money. In addition, all winning teams were awarded trophies, crests, and certificates. The best speaker received BDT 50,000, along with a trophy, crest, and certificate.

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July-24 Martyrs’ Families Association Launched

The July-24 Martyrs’ Families Association has officially been launched with a 21-member committee. Alhaj Shahidul Islam Bhuiyan, father of martyr Farhan Faiyaz, has been made President, while Mohi Uddin, father of martyr Yamin, has been appointed General Secretary.  

The inauguration and introductory program was held on Sunday (January 1) at the Trade Center in Karwan Bazar. Discussions also focused on the upcoming national parliamentary elections and referendum.  

Speaking as guest, Syed Abdal Ahmad, Executive of Amar Desh, said the sacrifices of the July Revolution martyrs forced fascists to flee the country, giving the nation a “second independence.” He emphasized that their memory must remain alive as a source of inspiration for democracy-loving people.  

Chairman of Debate for Democracy, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, warned that if the dreams of the July Revolution martyrs and their families fail, the state itself will fail. He urged all to work together to carry forward their vision.  

The program was presided over by Shafiqul Islam. The 21-member committee was announced by Mir Mostafizur Rahman, father of martyr Mugdho and Senior Vice President of the association.  

Other members include Vice President Golam Razzak, Organizing Secretary Kabir Hossain, Joint Organizing Secretary Gaus Ullah, Finance Secretary Gaziur Rahman, Joint Finance Secretary Mohammad Abdul Matin, Publicity Secretary Mohammad Akhtaruzzaman, Joint Publicity Secretary Mohammad Kamal Uddin, Office Secretary Kazi Lulul Madhmin, Joint Office Secretary Sammuzzaman, Information Secretary Rufaidah Islam Chandini, Joint Information Secretary Aman Ullah Shahid, Law Secretary Shafiqul Islam, Joint Law Secretary Zakir Hossain Patwari, Health Secretary Saif Ahmed Khan, and Executive Members Ainun Nahar, Moriyam Khanam, Abul Hossain, and Abul Khair.  

The President announced that before the national elections, a rally of martyrs’ families will be held at the China Friendship Conference Center. Members of the martyrs’ families were present at the event.  

The association’s temporary office has been set up at 99, Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Karwan Bazar, Dhaka.  

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Awami League Biggest Obstacle to Democracy’: Prof. Mahbub Ullah

Professor Dr. Mahbub Ullah says, ‘We have still not reaped the benefits of such a great sacrifice as the Liberation War. Our Liberation War was controlled by a neighboring country. Post-Liberation democracy was directed by them as well. That is why a one-party stigmatized ruling system was established later. At this moment, the Awami League is the biggest obstacle on the path to democratic transition and peaceful coexistence. Due to their vindictiveness, there is a risk of disruption in the electoral environment and the country’s peace. Intoxicated by power, Sheikh Hasina had turned into a political malefactor.’

On Saturday, at the grand finale and award ceremony of the election debate competition organized by Debate for Democracy at FDC, prominent educationist Professor Dr. Mahbub Ullah made these remarks as the chief guest. The event was presided over by Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy.

Professor Dr. Mahbub Ullah said, ‘Behind the violent incidents occurring regarding the election, there is also the support of the fallen autocrat and the neighboring country. No situation has arisen in Bangladesh that would require any country’s embassy to recall its staff to their home country. India is unable to accept this change and election in our country, which is why they are taking such decisions.’

He further stated, ‘Through the upcoming election, the journey of fair democratic practice and peaceful coexistence will begin. However, much more remains to be done to firmly establish democracy. A fair election alone will not end the politics of vengeance. For that, a qualitative change in politics is necessary. So far, the electoral environment cannot be called fully satisfactory, but it must be ensured that violent incidents do not recur.  

In his presidential speech, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron said, ‘People’s expectations for the upcoming election are much higher than for any previous election. This election is against fascist evil forces. It is an election for revenge for the blood of the martyrs of the July uprising. It is an election to reclaim voting rights and democracy. It is an election for societal change. It is an election against injustice, oppression, enforced disappearances, murders, killings, cases, attacks, imprisonment, and torture. Differences of opinion will remain in politics, and there will be competition, but they must not turn into vengeance. Excessive hatred, slander, and rage in the upcoming election campaigns and propaganda are making the political arena unstable. Taking advantage of this, fugitive groups involved in mass killings may try to make the election controversial and derail it.’

He added, ‘Post-election violence has been a dark chapter in our politics. To prevent violent incidents after the 13th National Parliament Election, the administration and law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant from now on. The fire of vengeance is extremely dangerous, as it turns people into oppressors. We hope that through the upcoming election, the politics of vengeance in the country will come to an end. Whoever comes to power through the people’s vote will take opposition views along to heal the wounds of Hasina’s fascist regime. They will establish good governance and accountability.’

In the competition, State University of Bangladesh became the champion, Eden Mohila College secured the runner-up position, and Tejgaon College took third place. The best speaker award went to Masnun Nabilah Alam, the team leader from Eden Mohila College. The champion team received Tk 200,000, the runner-up Tk 150,000, and the third-place team Tk 100,000, along with trophies, crests, and certificates. Additionally, the best speaker was awarded Tk 50,000, a crest, trophy, and certificate.

The judges of the competition were Professor Abu Mohammad Rois, Dr. S M Morshed, journalist Kazi Hafiz, journalist Maidur Rahman Rubel, and journalist Afrin Jahan. The topic of the final competition organized by Debate for Democracy was: “If the upcoming referendum and parliamentary election are fair, the politics of vengeance will end.”

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Sitting in Delhi, Hasina's Press Conference Will Have No Effect: Justice M A Matin

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is speaking against the country while sitting in Delhi, conspiring, and holding press conferences—this will have no effect, commented former Justice of the Appellate Division of the Bangladesh Supreme Court, Md. Abdul Matin.

He made these remarks on Sunday (January 25) at a mock parliament organized by Debate for Democracy at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation, titled "The Role of the Election Commission is Primary in Ensuring Fair Upcoming Referendum and Parliamentary Election."

Justice M A Matin said, "If she (Sheikh Hasina) is so powerful, why did she flee? She had to flee because the people did not want her. In her tenure, elections were a farce; there were no real elections, which is why the revolution happened."

Abdul Matin stated that despite the bloodshed and loss of countless lives, there is no remorse within the Awami League. "The bloodstains have not yet dried. The Awami League must understand why they cannot participate in the election. However, as citizens, supporters of the Awami League will be able to vote. If the Awami League seeks forgiveness from the people for their misdeeds and shows genuine repentance, they may be forgiven."

The former judge added, "A neighboring country had claimed that no government could sit or function in this country. They had vowed not to let the people of this country live in peace. Their hopes have turned into despair. No pressure from them has worked. If the 'Yes' vote fails in the referendum, the long-cherished aspirations of the people will be dashed. There is no fear of the election being disrupted. If the people remain vigilant, no obstacle or conspiracy will succeed in sabotaging the election."

The event was presided over by Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy.

In his presidential address, Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron said that the people of the country want elections. The general public is waiting for a fair election. There is no alternative to elections for restoring democracy. The party that cannot participate in the election is trying to disrupt and discredit it. The ousted Prime Minister, sentenced to death for the alleged murder of 1,400 people, is conducting various propaganda against the country while staying in a neighboring country. In a recent audio speech, she falsely claimed that she was ousted through a planned conspiracy, which is completely unacceptable. Therefore, parties like BNP, Jamaat, NCPC, and other participating parties and candidates should avoid any actions that could allow fallen forces to attempt to sabotage the election. The past three elections were highly controversial, marked by the theft of democracy and the looting of voting rights. They were elections that snatched away the people's power. If this election is fair and acceptable, the nation will be freed from the stigma of tainted elections. People's rule will return. A discrimination-free and harmonious state will be built. Social justice will be established. Good governance and accountability will return. As election day approaches, the misuse of AI to spread rumors and fake videos is rapidly increasing, which could mislead voters.

In the mock parliament on "The Role of the Election Commission is Primary in Ensuring Fair Upcoming Referendum and Parliamentary Election," debaters from State University of Bangladesh defeated those from Tejgaon College and emerged victorious. The judges were Professor Abu Mohammad Rois, senior journalist Mainul Alam, journalist Moshiur Rahman Khan, journalist Afrin Jahan, and journalist Zakir Hossain Liton. After the competition, trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participating teams.

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Efforts to Disrupt the Election Must Be Resisted: Munira Khan

Those attempting to sabotage the election must be resisted, said Munira Khan, President of the election observation organization Fair Election Monitoring Alliance (FEMA).

She made these remarks on Friday (January 9) at a shadow parliament organized by Debate for Democracy at the FDC in the capital, titled “An Acceptable Election Will Play a Role in Restoring Democracy.”

Munira Khan stated that the election must take place and cannot be stalled. However, a certain group is actively working to undermine a good and acceptable election. Expressing concern, she said there could be attempts to disrupt the upcoming election, and those behind such efforts must be resisted.

She noted that maintaining law and order during the election is one of the biggest challenges. The highest measures must be taken to recover illegal weapons. At the same time, tackling the “three Ms”—Money, Muscle, and Manipulation—requires responsible roles from the government, the Election Commission, and political parties, alongside essential public awareness. In addition to the interim government, political parties must also play a strong role in ensuring a good election.

She further said that former Chief Election Commissioners Nurul Huda and Habibul Awal could have resigned due to their failure to conduct fair elections. Instead, by violating their oath, they delivered questionable elections.

Addressing voters, she urged them not to vote based solely on symbols, but to consider the manifesto and the candidate's qualifications. Otherwise, instead of restoring democracy, fascism could return.

Regarding independent candidates, Munira Khan said the provision requiring signatures from 1% of total voters to be submitted to the Election Commission is contradictory to the constitution. This provision needs to be changed. She also expressed dissatisfaction that, despite all political parties agreeing in the July Charter to nominate at least 5% women candidates, none have followed through in practice. She was particularly critical of Jamaat-e-Islami for not nominating even a single woman candidate.

The event was presided over by Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy.

In his address as the Speaker of the shadow parliament, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron said the February 12 election will be the people's verdict against Awami League's misrule. Voters, who have long been deprived of exercising their voting rights, will now have the opportunity to express their accumulated anger. Through genuine votes, the nation will be freed from the stigma of tainted elections, and a government of the people will be established.

He said that instead of politics of revenge, an inclusive, discrimination-free, and harmonious state will emerge—where social justice, rule of law, and human rights can be ensured.

However, he cautioned that ending an autocratic regime is not possible through elections alone. Without ensuring good governance and accountability, a merely acceptable election will not be sufficient to restore democracy.

Hasan Kiron further stated that elections are not just about transferring power. Ordinary people expect relief, security, and peace from their elected representatives. They want balance in income and expenditure, education, employment, and healthcare guarantees. People will be satisfied only when their minimum basic rights are realized.

In the shadow parliament competition, debaters from Dhaka International University defeated those from Atish Dipankar University of Science and Technology to win. The judges were Prof. Abu Muhammad Rois, journalist Mainul Alam, Mashiur Rahman Khan, Zakir Hossain Liton, and Kawsara Chowdhury Kumu. At the end of the event, trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participating teams.

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Killing of Osman Hadi Linked to Plot to Sabotage Upcoming Elections, Say Speakers at Shadow Parliament

Political analyst and former member of the Election Reform Commission Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman has alleged that the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi was a targeted assassination aimed at creating a culture of fear to derail the upcoming national elections.

Speaking as the chief guest at a shadow parliament organised by Debate for Democracy on the topic "Young Voters Will Determine Victory or Defeat in the Next Election" at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (FDC) on Friday (December 19), Dr. Zahed described the incident as a "targeted killing."

"No one in the country has not felt grief over Hadi's assassination. The atmosphere created after his death is regrettable," he said, criticising the vandalism and arson attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star following Hadi's death."While there may be criticisms of Prothom Alo and Daily Star, those who loved Hadi should not have resorted to vandalism and setting fire to these media houses. The government failed to handle the situation properly. Domestic and foreign vested interests are involved behind this. When disunity emerges among us and one side threatens the other, vested interest groups take advantage," Dr. Zahed added.He warned that various vested groups active in Bangladesh do not want the country's stability.

Presiding over the event, Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiran said despite maximum efforts, Osman Hadi could not be saved. "We are pained, heartbroken, ashamed, and alarmed by his assassination. The killers of Hadi will remain despised in history as cowards. This assassination will be recorded as a tragic dark chapter for the nation."

Kiran emphasised that Hadi's blood must not go in vain. "If Hadi's blood goes in vain, the spirit of the July uprising will fail. Although the defeated fascists have fled, their accomplices are still constantly trying to sabotage the election through threats and conspiracies. Hadi was killed as part of that effort."He noted that demands have arisen for security for national leaders and candidates following the incident. "I hope that after BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman returns to the country, the government will ensure his highest security through the SSF."

The judges at the shadow parliament were journalists Kazi Hafiz, Md. Alamgir Hossain, Zakir Hossain Liton, Kazi Zebel, and Md. Atikur Rahman.

In the debate competition, the team from Dhaka Cantonment Girls' Public School and College emerged victorious, defeating Dr. Mahbubur Rahman Mollah College. Participating teams were awarded trophies, crests, and certificates at the end of the event.

Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent leader of the 2024 student-led uprising and spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, was shot in the head on December 12 in Dhaka's Paltan area while campaigning as a potential independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency. He died on December 18 while undergoing treatment in Singapore, triggering widespread protests and violence across the country.

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