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Rased Mehedi

  • EDITOR

Journalist, Editor, Views Bangladesh
Policies must be developed with ‘digital sovereignty’ in mind
Policies must be developed with ‘digital sovereignty’ in mind
Editorial Views

Policies must be developed with ‘digital sovereignty’ in mind

Recently, the French government has made the decision to cease the use of US-owned platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft’s Meet, along with other similar "online video conferencing platforms" within government offices. The decision indicates that France aims to eliminate the use of video conferencing software from the US or any foreign nation across all levels of government and the private sector by the year 2027. Officials stated that numerous sensitive and significant state matters are being discussed on these platforms, and the data from these discussions is stored on US servers, which compromises France’s digital sovereignty. Simultaneously, it was announced that France will spearhead efforts to promote the implementation of a coordinated 'digital sovereignty' policy among European Union member states. In a related development, another European nation, Austria, has declared its intention to gradually phase out the use of Microsoft’s Office software, opting instead to adopt its own Office suite universally. This decision has been made by the royal family.

Tarique Rahman, beware of toadies
Tarique Rahman, beware of toadies
Editorial Views

Tarique Rahman, beware of toadies

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is currently receiving an outpouring of congratulations due to his imminent assumption of the role of Prime Minister of Bangladesh within the next day or two. We extend our congratulations to Tarique Rahman on this significant occasion of becoming the leader of the nation, following the party's substantial victory in the national elections. However, as a professional journalist, I feel it is my responsibility to highlight a crucial aspect of national politics. As a conscientious citizen, I wish to avoid witnessing any future head of government being perceived as a 'disrespectful' figure by the conclusion of their term. I understand that such discussions may not be well-received in the current climate. While it is certainly gratifying to hear words of commendation today, I seek to hear something more substantial, as my professional obligation is to convey the truth with clarity and precision.

Mobile Phone Ban at Polling Centers: A Concerning Decision
Mobile Phone Ban at Polling Centers: A Concerning Decision
National Election

Mobile Phone Ban at Polling Centers: A Concerning Decision

The Election Commission has prohibited carrying and using mobile phones within 400 yards of polling centers for the February 12 election. This is the first time such a decision has been made for national or local elections in Bangladesh.

Which direction are the upcoming election results heading?
Which direction are the upcoming election results heading?
Article

Which direction are the upcoming election results heading?

What will be the outcome of the upcoming national election? Which political party will lead the new government? Or will no party secure a majority, resulting in a coalition government? Such questions now preoccupy the public mind. The most crucial question is: Which path will the newly elected government take Bangladesh down? Given the state of Bangladesh over the past 16 years, and the political situation witnessed over the past 18 months, the new government's biggest challenge will be maintaining political and economic stability. A new question has also emerged recently: If a political party whose leadership has declared that women will never hold top positions comes to power, will women's roles in senior government posts, their participation in economic activities, and women's education be curtailed?

Bangladesh’s visa crisis: Diplomatic failure or national reckoning?
Bangladesh’s visa crisis: Diplomatic failure or national reckoning?
Article

Bangladesh’s visa crisis: Diplomatic failure or national reckoning?

Getting an e-visa for Uzbekistan, a country rich in Muslim heritage, was once remarkably simple for Bangladeshi citizens. A single-entry visa could be obtained online for just $30 from the comfort of home. Since August 6, 2024, however, Uzbekistan has suspended e-visa services for Bangladeshi citizens. As a result, Bangladesh no longer appears on the list of countries eligible for e-visa applications. Even now, in January 2026, the Uzbek government has yet to lift this restriction.

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