Infighting poses threat to B’desh, army chief warns

Bangladesh’s army chief blamed infighting for deteriorating law and order, warning that the gains of the student-led revolution that toppled the government last August were at risk.

The country has been struggling to stem a surge in violent crime, with the security forces arresting thousands this month targeting gangs allegedly connected to the party of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

“If you can’t move beyond your differences and continue meddling and fighting among yourselves, the independence and integrity of the country will be at risk — I warn you,” said Gen Waker-uz-Zaman, without singling out any group by name.

“Since stakeholders are busy accusing each other, miscreants find the situation favourable. They believe they can get away with anything,” he said at an army memorial event.

Bangladesh has been riven by a surge of crime, as well as protests this month where crowds smashed buildings connected to Hasina’s family.

In February, rival student factions clashed at a university campus, a sign of serious discord between groups instrumental in driving the uprising against Hasina.

Security forces have arrested more than 8,600 people since it launched “Operation Devil Hunt” on Feb 8, which the government has accused of being Hasina loyalists and of wanting to “destabilise” the country. “The anarchy we have witnessed is manufactured by us,” Waker said.n to our barracks”

Khloé Kardashian to carve out her niche in showbiz

Khloé Kardashian has recently decided to carve her niche in the entertainment industry outside her family reality show.

A source told In Touch that the reality star is passionate about her new podcast, Khloe in Wonderland.

“Khloé isn’t just being a tourist in the podcasting and interviewing space; she’s wanted this for a while and slowly worked up to it, even shooting test interviews that have never aired anywhere to refine her interviewing skills,” explained an insider.

However, underneath all of her prep, the source mentioned a pretty clear restlessness about the reality franchise – “a big reason why The Kardashians are not getting multi-year renewals anymore.”

It is pertinent to mention that the era of Kardashian-led reality shows has declined, considering there’s less drama left for viewers to watch now.

New ADB President Masato Kanda Assumes Office

Assuming office in February as the 11th President of the Asian Development Bank, Masato Kanda expressed his commitment to advancing ADB’s mission to promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth in the region.

Mr Kanda succeeds Masatsugu Asakawa, continuing a legacy of excellence and innovation. According to a press release from ADB, with nearly four decades of experience in international finance and development policy, Mr Kanda is widely recognised for his forward-thinking leadership and decisive interventions during market volatility.

Mr Kanda’s appointment underscores ADB’s ongoing evolution and its commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of its developing member countries. As the bank embarks on a new phase of strategic growth, his leadership will build on ADB’s strong legacy while also positioning the institution to address future challenges and opportunities.

The ADB Board of Governors’ decision to elect Mr Kanda was unanimous, reflecting broad confidence in his ability to steer ADB during a time of significant change. His extensive background in managing complex economic policies and his hands-on experience in multilateral settings will be invaluable as ADB continues to adapt to a rapidly changing global landscape.

SouthAsia Forum joins hands with SwissCham Asia and Singularity Academy of Switzerland

SouthAsia Forum, SwissCham Asia, and Singularity Academy have joined hands to pool their synergies and facilitate economic, social, and cultural alliances among the South Asian countries’ fraternity. The ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ signed by the three on January 15, 2025, has laid down the foundation of this relationship.

Each partner in this relationship contributes its value to the common cause of prosperity and harmony in South Asia. As a traditionally neutral country, Switzerland is best positioned to open doors of cooperation among South Asian nations.

SouthAsia Forum, headquartered in Karachi, is a leading association for research and publications on matters of South Asia. Its panel includes well-accomplished experts on global diplomacy, cultural and social creativity, and promoters of prosperity in South Asia. The monthly publication of ‘South Asia Magazine’, which has wider circulation in South Asia, carries the messages of the region’s opinion makers and intellects to invoke the region’s economic and political dynamics and challenges.

SwissCham Asia, headquartered in Zurich, aims to support businesses and stakeholders through expert insights, strategic partnerships, and innovative solutions. One of its hallmark achievements has been its role in facilitating economic dialogue and organizing high-profile economic summits and business expos. The Chamber has provided a stage for policymakers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to engage in meaningful discussions. The stage set up by SwissCham at the World Economic Forum meeting at Davos in January 2025 is the continuity of this effort.

Singularity Academy, headquartered in Zurich, supports SwissCham’s global outreach and significant programmes. The organisation seamlessly integrates advanced technology into its academic programs, offering personalised and holistic learning experiences. Its comprehensive approach spans the entire personal and professional development spectrum, encompassing consulting, education, research, publications, incubation, wellness, legal counsel and compliance, and healthcare services.