DHAKA, Feb 17, 2026 (BSS) - Former home adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has said that the credit for holding free, transparent and credible election goes to all concerned.  “The credit for holding the 13th parliamentary election fairly goes to all including the Home Ministry, law enforcement agencies and officials involved in the electoral process,” he said.  He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a farewell reception organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs at the Bangladesh Secretariat today.  Speaking at the ceremony, Chowdhury described the 13th national parliament  election as the “most fair, acceptable and festive” one in the country’s history.  He said that during a special cabinet meeting held recently, the Chief Adviser highly praised the Ministry of Home Affairs and the law enforcement agencies for their role in ensuring a peaceful electoral environment. “I am happy to have been able to give the gift of a free, fair and impartial election,” he said, adding that after the Election Commission, the Ministry of Home Affairs shouldered the highest responsibility in conducting national elections. Expressing deep gratitude to the officials and employees of the ministry, he said he was now in the “fourth quarter” of his life and sought prayers from colleagues so that he could spend the rest of his days in happiness and peace with his family. Later, briefing journalists, he thanked members of the media for their role over the past one and a half years of his tenure. He said the media had consistently highlighted the ministry’s activities and also pointed out shortcomings, helping authorities make informed decisions. Describing the media as the “fourth pillar” of the state, he said it is an integral part of any democratic structure.  Alongside the judiciary, executive and legislature, the media plays a vital role in ensuring accountability and transparency in society, he opined. He expressed hope that the media would continue to uphold this important responsibility in the future.

RAJSHAHI, Feb 17, 2026 (BSS)- Like the rest of the country, the swearing-in  ceremony of the newly-formed cabinet members was broadcast live on a giant  screen in Rajshahi today (Tuesday) at 4:00 pm.   The Rajshahi District Information Office took the initiative to display the  ceremony on a large screen at Lakshmipur intersection in the city.   Among those present at the screening were Director of the District  Information Office Tazkia Akbari, its other officials and staff, media  personnel and a large number of people from different walks of life.