De/Cypher Data Dive 📈
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Asia View🌏
Yunus’s Return to Politics: Can He Fulfil His Vision for Bangladesh?
Written By Aurko Chakrabarti, Applied Geopolitical Researcher
In 1999, Muhammad Yunus famously said, “Once poverty is gone, we’ll need to build museums to display its horrors to future generations. They’ll wonder why poverty continued so long in human society – how a few people could live in luxury while billions dwelt in misery, deprivation and despair.”
Yunus, now the Chief-Advisor for the interim government of Bangladesh, has the chance to bring this dream closer to reality. Yunus may have been thrust into the limelight, propositioned by the youth of his country to come back and provide assistance, but he had long held his own political aspirations.
Prior to his current role, Yunus had contemplated starting his own political party called Nagorik Shakti (Citizen Power) back in 2007, a time reminiscent of the present turmoil in Bangladesh as the country was at a political stalemate, with political rivals, Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia both imprisoned as the country was run by a military-backed caretaker government. His idea was met with opposition from both the AL and the BNP, and a few months later he decided to leave politics after meeting with the head of the caretaker government, Fakhruddin Ahmed.
His return has been welcomed as a breath of fresh air after the increasingly autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina, which had been dogged by allegations of corruption. But Bangladesh has not yet displayed the same intent for recovery as it has for revolution. While one government has been toppled, the next has not been able to assert itself and remedy the instability within the country.
While primary schools reopened on Aug 14 and public transport services resumed on Aug 17, showing signs of a return to normalcy, there still seems be a lot of ambiguity. Police stations are being guarded by the military as police officials are reluctant to return to work as they fear facing retribution for their role in the killing of civilians. Members of the previous government share similar concerns and there are still reports of targeted violence against minorities.
As recently as Sunday, August 25, there were protests in the capital, with over 40 people injured after the protests turned violent. The clashes were between Ansar members, a paramilitary force, who were demanding the nationalisation of their jobs and university students. Over 400 people were arrested during the clashes, and the interim government has prohibited people from gathering at the Secretariat, the site of the protest.
There is a distinction between power and rule, and the interim government led by Yunus lacks credibility in terms of governance. Protest bans may not be a step in the right direction unless they are justified by significant policy reform, and it is unclear whether the interim government will have enough time to implement new policies, as elections are supposed to be held within 90 days of the formation of an interim government, according to the constitution. Although Yunus stated on Sunday, August 25, that a “free, fair, and participatory” election could not be held until his government had completed its “mandate” of implementing “vital reforms” to stabilise the country. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of progress, with Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stating, “We want the chief adviser to promptly present a roadmap to the public, clearly outlining how the elections will be organised, the necessary reforms will be implemented, and how these measures will ease the lives of the people,”.
The lack of experience within the current administration may be hurting the chances of sustained progress as there is a huge backlog of demands from the public to deal with, but the student members of the cabinet believe their willingness to work for the betterment of the country can make up for that inexperience. There has been a focus placed on improving the pillars of democracy, starting with the judiciary, legislature, and providing freedom of expression to the press and individual citizens. The country’s technology and telecom minister, Nahid Islam, 26, spoke of the gravity of having the ability to impact the lives of hundreds of millions of people, saying, “It is a very big responsibility on my shoulders” and “People are coming with their problems—so many.”
Regardless of the student leaders’ enthusiasm, it is important to recognise that the public’s patience may soon wear thin. There are high expectations for the interim government to implement policy change, and citizens want to see immediate results. The appointment of a new chief justice and governor of the central bank, as well as the prosecution of those responsible for public violence and the dismissal of legal cases against protesting students, have helped to restore some calm internally.
On the international front, Yunus has met with dignitaries from India, the United Kingdom, and China, as well as established contact with a number of aid agencies, including USAID and UNDP. In a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma, he advocated for the formation of a high-level committee to address flood management, while communicating with the UK about the need to recover black money and asking Ambassador Yen of China to bring solar panel production to Bangladesh. This demonstrates a strategy for maintaining and improving bilateral relations with partner countries.
The Bangladeshi public are cautiously optimistic of the developments both on the domestic and international fronts but there is ample faith in Yunus and co. to act in the best interest of the country for now. If that faith were to diminish however, Bangladesh may find itself regressing into a state of turmoil.
Af-Pak De/Cypher
Economy
Auditor general concerned over poor financial affairs
Khaleeq Kiani reports for Dawn that the Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP) has expressed serious concerns over the country’s deteriorating financial affairs, which have resulted in less than 4 per cent of the over Rs38.67 trillion budget being available for socio-economic services. Besides, around 93pc of supplementary grants, worth over Rs8tr, are not approved by the parliament and remain unspent, representing a loss of public resources. In its report on the audit year 2023-24, the AGP said that major financial management issues of the federal government during the fiscal year 2022-23 pertained to “unnecessary allocation of supplementary grants leading to blocking of public funds, the demand of budget without need assessment leading to the surrender of budget, lapse of funds due to non-surrendering of funds in time and non-recording of commitments leading to poor budget management”.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf constitutes Arif Alvi-led committee to address internal rifts
ANI News reports that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has constituted a committee led by Pakistan’s former President Arif Alvi. The committee has been asked to address the internal rifts and submit recommendations within a week. Arif Alvi will chair the committee, which will hold meetings with PTI leaders and stakeholders to hear their concerns and grievances. The development came a day after the messages of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan and PTI leader Raoof Hasan’s messages regarding Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, were leaked. The messages revealed Aleema Khan asking Raoof Hasan to stop spreading Bushra Bibi’s message which states a meeting with Imran Khan in jail, as it will incite the disinformation cell.
Govt to retain only strategic ministries
The Express Tribune reports that Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has said the government is planning to close or privatise state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and non-strategic ministries as part of its austerity measures. The move will not only relieve the government of a significant burden but also ensure a focus on good governance was the official statement of the minister, while speaking to a private news channel. Sheikh said the government is looking at multiple SOEs and considering whether to privatize them or close them entirely. When asked which institutions and ministries would be shut down, Sheikh provided no names but said they would be either closed or merged with other ministries.
Internal Politics
PM Shehbaz, President Zardari condemn deadly terrorist attack on police checkpost in Kurram
The Express Tribune reports that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari have both strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack on a police check post in Kurram in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), which resulted in the death of one policeman and injuries to another. PM Shehbaz, in his message, extended his tribute to the police officer who lost his life and urged for exemplary punishment for the perpetrators. resident Zardari echoed these sentiments, expressed profound grief over the loss of police personnel and offered his condolences to the family of the fallen officer. He prayed for the martyred officer and for the swift recovery of those injured in the attack. He emphasised the nation’s respect for the sacrifices made by police officers and instructed relevant authorities to provide the best medical care to the injured. The PM also called for a thorough investigation to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
23 travellers from Punjab killed in Balochistan’s Musakhel: official
Abdullah Zehri reports for Dawn that at least 23 people from Punjab have been killed in Balochistan’s Musakhel district after armed men offloaded passengers from trucks and buses and shot at them after checking their identities, an official said. According to Assistant Commissioner Musakhail Najeeb Kakar, armed men blocked the inter-provincial highway in the Rarasham district of Musakhel and offloaded passengers from buses. He noted that the dead were identified as belonging to Punjab. The armed men also set fire to 10 vehicles, he said. Police and Levies officials reached the spot and began shifting the bodies to the hospital, the AC said.
2 separate bus crashes in Pakistan leave at least 36 people dead, officials say
Munir Ahmed reports for the Associate Press that two separate bus crashes hours apart in Pakistan on Sunday left at least 36 people dead and dozens more injured, officials said. The first happened when a bus carrying Shiite Muslim pilgrims returning from Iraq through Iran fell from a highway into a ravine in southwest Pakistan, killing at least 12 people and injuring 32 others, police and officials said. The driver lost control on the Makran coastal highway when the brakes failed, while passing through Lasbela district in Baluchistan province, local police chief Qazi Sabir said. The second crash occurred hours later. 24 people were killed when a bus fell into a ravine in the Kahuta district of the eastern Punjab province, police and officials said, including two women and a child. Omar Farooq, a senior government official in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, said there were no survivors. Authorities in Baluchistan said that arrangements were being made to send the bodies of the pilgrims to Punjab province for burial. Maryam Nawaz, the chief minister in Punjab, expressed her condolences after the crash.
Shehbaz sets sights on paperless governance
The Express Tribune reports that in a step towards digitisation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed on Sunday the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication and related institutions to ensure that federal government offices transition to a paperless environment by implementing the e-office system. The prime minister asserted that any delay in the adoption of the e-office system will not be tolerated. He has set a firm deadline, mandating that all federal office files must be processed exclusively through the e-office system within the next month.
Pakistan and Rest of the World🌐
Prime Minister Modi gets rare invite for Islamabad visit
Kamran Yousaf reports for The Express Tribune that Pakistan sent a formal invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the summit meeting of the heads of state and government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), scheduled in the middle of October in Islamabad, official sources confirmed on Sunday. According to the sources, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif invited Modi and other SCO leaders for the gathering of regional leaders on October 15 and 16 in Islamabad. This is the first time that Pakistan had invited the Indian leader in eight years. Last time Prime Minister Modi was invited for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) summit in 2016. The summit never took place after India boycotted it and since then the regional organisation is all but dysfunctional.
How India and Pakistan tiptoe around the nuclear threat
Ajay Darshan Behera writes for Deccan Herald that the decades-long rivalry between Pakistan and India refuses to wane, even in the shadow of nuclear escalation. The eternal threat of conflict between the two nations has prompted each to increasingly stretch beyond capacity. In India’s case, this meant a defence budget balloon. For Pakistan, empowering militants as part of its hybrid warfare strategy has resulted in internal destabilisation. At the same time, due to economic constraints, India is now exploring downsizing its military forces, and Pakistan has seen a steady decline in its defence spending.
Harrowing Phone Calls Expose Global Campaign of Repression
By Ryan Grim and Murtaza Hussan
Ryan Grim and Muraza Hussan explore the growing phenomenon of transnational repression, where governments target dissidents living abroad to silence political dissent, in Pakistan. The story of Salman Shabbir, an Australian citizen of Pakistani descent, whose activism led to the abduction and torture of his brother in Pakistan was shared. Through frightening audio recordings and testimonies, the article reveals how Pakistani authorities use threats, violence, and coercion against diaspora communities to quell criticism. This hardhanded stifling raises concerns about the violation of international norms and the sovereignty of host nations. The piece underscores the broader implications of such repression, which affects global civil society, free speech, and human rights, while also highlighting the muted response from international governments.
Afghanistan Update
Taliban vice and virtue laws provide ‘distressing vision’ for Afghanistan, warns UN envoy
Ground News reports that the Taliban’s new vice and virtue laws, including a ban on women’s voices and bare faces in public, create a “distressing vision” for Afghanistan’s future, warns Roza Otunbayeva of the U.N. Otunbayeva states these laws further restrict the rights of women and girls, deeming even a female voice outside the home a moral violation. The laws require women to conceal their face, body, and voice in public, reflecting significant oppression amid a humanitarian crisis.
Pakistani Traders Discuss Market Development with Afghan Consul Takhari
Tolo News reports that the consul of the Islamic Emirate in Karachi, Pakistan, in this meeting, emphasized the need to create investment opportunities in the country. Several Pakistani traders met with the consul of the Islamic Emirate in Karachi to discuss expanding markets and finding new ones for their products in Afghanistan. Abdul Jabbar Takhari, the consul of the Islamic Emirate in Karachi, Pakistan, in this meeting, emphasized the need to create investment opportunities in the country and called on Pakistani investors to invest in various sectors in Afghanistan.
Bangladesh De/Cypher
Economy
Forex Reserves at $20.48b
The Business Post reports that Bangladesh’s forex reserves have dropped to $20.48 billion as of Wednesday, marking a significant decrease from $29.42 billion a year ago. This decline is attributed to rising import payments, money laundering, and interventions by Bangladesh Bank to stabilise the market. In response to the crisis, the central bank adopted a crawling peg system, adjusting the USD price to Taka 120. The interim government plans to publish a white paper addressing these economic challenges.
Awami League Govt Leaves Behind $156 Billion Debt
Rejaul Karim Byron writes in The Daily Star that when Sheikh Hasina left power amid a student-led uprising on August 5, 2024, Bangladesh’s debt had surged to $156 billion from $33.66 billion in 2008. Economists blame stagnant revenue growth, corruption in mega projects, and short-term high-interest loans for this dramatic increase. The debt service-to-revenue ratio is projected to surpass 100% this fiscal year, underscoring the country’s rising repayment risks.
Internal Politics
Govt Revokes Diplomatic Passports of Hasina, Ex-Ministers, MPs
Daily Sun reports that the interim government has revoked the diplomatic passports of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ex-ministers, and former MPs following Hasina’s escape to India amid a student-led uprising. This action leaves Hasina in a precarious situation as she seeks refuge in India, which faces a diplomatic dilemma. The UN has also sent a team to Dhaka to assess possible human rights violations during the final weeks of Hasina’s rule, marked by widespread violence and mass detentions.
Women Leaders Meet Chief Adviser with Proposals for Reform
The Daily Star reports that women leaders met with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, urging immediate action on violence-related injuries and advocating for judicial reforms. The proposals, including a women’s rights commission and reforms to empower the Bangladesh Information Commission, received a positive response. Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan highlighted the importance of these reforms but noted the need for further stakeholder consultations to finalise them. Issues like NGO harassment and justice for victims of violence were also discussed.
Murder Case Filed Against Shakib, Ferdous
Dhaka Tribune reports that a murder case has been filed against cricketer Shakib Al Hasan and actor Ferdous Ahmed, both former MPs from the Awami League. The case, filed by Rafiqul Islam, accuses them, alongside former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 154 others, of involvement in a protest-related shooting that led to the death of Islam’s son, Rubel. The incident occurred during a protest march on August 5, 2024.
Cases Against Hasina So Far Cross 50
The Daily Star reports that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is now facing over 50 legal cases following her resignation and flight on August 5, 2024. The cases include 42 murder charges, seven allegations of crimes against humanity and genocide, and others related to abduction and attacks on political rallies. Recent charges involve deaths during the student-led uprising, with various cases filed across Dhaka, Narsingdi, and Bogura. The courts have ordered investigations into these incidents.
Over 3,000 People Sued Over Attack on Army Convoy in Gopalganj
New Age reports that a case has been filed in Gopalganj accusing 106 named individuals, including local Awami League leaders, and over 3,200 unidentified people for attacking an army convoy. The incident occurred on August 10, 2024, during a protest demanding the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The attackers injured nine army personnel, vandalised vehicles, and snatched weapons. The case was filed by Lieutenant Colonel Md Maksudul Alam at Gopalganj Sadar Police Station.
Govt to Form Commission to Probe Disappearance Cases
Risingbd reports that the interim government of Bangladesh plans to establish a commission to investigate the numerous cases of forced disappearances that occurred during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure. The announcement was made by Chief Adviser’s press secretary Shafiqul Alam, who stated that around 700 people disappeared under the previous government, with 150 still missing. The commission, modelled after Sri Lanka’s, aims to address these incidents. Additionally, a national security adviser will be appointed soon to aid in these efforts.
Body Formed to Study Biodiversity Impact
The Financial Express reports that the Bangladesh environment ministry has established a four-member committee to assess the potential biodiversity impact of the controversial Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park project in Moulvibazar. The committee, chaired by former Chief Forest Conservator Ishtiaq Uddin Ahmed, will evaluate the environmental consequences on the Lathitila Reserve Forest. The committee’s findings, which will include consultations with local communities, are to be submitted by September 19. The project has faced criticism from environmental groups concerned about its impact on the forest’s biodiversity.
Ex-State Minister Tajul, AL Organising Secretary Among 3 Arrested
Banglanews24 reports that former State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Captain (Retd.) AB Tajul Islam, recently retired Chairman of Chittagong Port Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail, and Awami League Organising Secretary Ahmad Hossain were detained by the Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Police (DB) on Tuesday night, August 20, 2024. The reasons for their detention remain unclear, and they were taken to the DB office after their arrest from different locations in Dhaka.
Clash Between Ansar Members and Students at Secretariat
The Business Standard reports that a clash erupted between Bangladesh Ansar members and students near the Secretariat on 25 August. The violence followed a protest by Ansar members demanding the nationalisation of their jobs. At least 40 people were injured, mostly students. The situation escalated after students responded to a social media post alleging wrongful detention by Ansar members. Adviser Nahid Islam assured that those responsible for attacking students would be held accountable.
Flash Flood Displaces Thousands and Leaves Millions Stranded in Bangladesh
New Age reports that flash floods have displaced over 200,000 people and stranded millions in Bangladesh, particularly affecting the eastern, southeastern, and northeastern regions. The flooding has caused significant damage, killing 15 people, destroying homes, infrastructure, and agricultural lands. Emergency response efforts are ongoing, but challenges persist due to continued heavy rainfall and the release of water from upstream regions in India.
Bangladesh and the World 🌐
Prof Yunus Proposes Bangladesh-India High-Level Committee to Manage Floods
The Business Standard reports that Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has proposed the formation of a high-level committee between Bangladesh and India to jointly manage floods. This suggestion was made during a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma at the Jamuna office. Prof Yunus emphasised the importance of cooperation on flood management due to shared rivers and expressed hope for resolving water-sharing disputes. The Indian envoy echoed the sentiment, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts for mutual prosperity and stability.
Chief Adviser Calls for Relocation of Solar Panel Plants to Bangladesh
Prothom Alo reports that Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus urged China to relocate its solar panel factories to Bangladesh during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen. Yunus emphasised the potential benefits of such a move, including boosting Bangladesh’s green transition and diversifying exports. He also called for increased imports of Bangladeshi goods to China and greater collaboration in disaster management, education, and farming.
BNP Sees Strengthening Ties with China as Crucial for Bangladesh’s Future Development: Fakhrul
The Daily Observer reports that BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir emphasized the importance of deepening ties with China for Bangladesh’s future development. Following a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, Fakhrul highlighted the mutual trust and confidence that underpin the growing relationship between the BNP and China. The meeting marked a significant interaction after nearly a decade, with discussions focusing on China’s continued support for Bangladesh’s development and the strengthening of bilateral relations. Ambassador Yao Wen reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh during this critical period.
Pakistan Envoy Meets BNP Secretary General to Discuss Regional Cooperation
Dhaka Tribune reports that Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maroof, met BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir to discuss bilateral issues, including trade, business, and regional cooperation. The discussions, held at the BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office, also involved senior BNP leaders and focused on strengthening economic relations and regional cooperation in South Asia, with an emphasis on creating a level playing field for business between the two countries.
Bangladesh’s Summit Reviewing Cross-Border Power Deals After India Rule Change
The Daily Star reports that Summit Group is reassessing its agreements to import renewable power from India following a policy change by New Delhi. The new rule allows Indian generators that exclusively export electricity to sell locally, prompting Summit to reconsider its investments in transmission infrastructure in Bangladesh. The shift has raised concerns for Summit, which had signed preliminary deals with Indian partners to source 1,000 MW of renewable energy. The group is exploring options, including delaying investments and renegotiating financial terms.
UNDP, Norway Join Hands for More Peaceful, Inclusive Bangladesh
Daily Sun reports that the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have extended their collaboration for a peaceful and inclusive Bangladesh by signing an agreement on Thursday. This partnership focuses on the “Partnerships for a More Tolerant, Inclusive Bangladesh” (PTIB) project, which aims to prevent hate speech, misinformation, and disinformation. Norway’s ambassador Espen Rikter-Svendsen and UNDP Bangladesh’s Resident Representative Stefan Liller signed the agreement, which will be effective until 2025. The initiative mobilises youth and civil society to promote tolerance, inclusivity, and digital literacy across the country.
Switzerland to Cooperate with Bangladesh to Bring Back Laundered Money: Khasru
The Daily Observer reports that BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury announced that Switzerland is prepared to assist Bangladesh in recovering money allegedly laundered by Awami League leaders. Following a meeting between BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Swiss Ambassador Reto Renggli, Khasru stated that discussions focused on Bangladesh’s economic and political situation post-Awami League and the measures needed to rebuild the country’s institutions. The Swiss Ambassador assured full cooperation in these efforts.
USAID Administrator Speaks with Prof Yunus; Pledges to Work Together on Core Issues
The Financial Express reports that USAID Administrator Samantha Power had a discussion with Bangladesh’s interim government Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, acknowledging his leadership during a crucial time for the country. They explored ways for USAID to support the interim government’s efforts towards democracy, good governance, human rights, and economic strengthening. The conversation also highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable refugees and supporting humanitarian efforts. USAID reaffirmed its commitment to its long-standing partnership with the Bangladeshi people.
Rest of World
HEADLINES
Top Psychiatrist Working with October 7 Victims Has a Warning for Israel
Ronny Linder and Rotem Shtarkman report for Haaretz that a top Psychiatrist Working with October 7 Victims has a warning for Israel. Prof. Shlomo Mendelovich, a leading psychiatrist, warns that Israel could face between 60,000 to 600,000 new PTSD cases following the October 7 attacks. He cautions against the use of group therapy, highlighting its potential risks, and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy to address the nation’s mental health crisis.
Telegram CEO’s Detention in France May Be Extended by 24 Hours
Bloomberg News reports that Pavel Durov, the chief executive officer of the Telegram messaging service, could have his detention in France extended by another 24 hours, according to a French judicial source. The arrest of Russian-born Durov was earlier reported by Agence France-Presse and other French media. The Russian embassy in Paris responded to the media reports saying it “immediately asked the French authorities for an explanation of the reasons and demanded that they ensure the protection of his rights and provide consular access” to Russian-born Durov.
US rapper Macklemore cancels Dubai gig over alleged UAE role in Sudan war
Ground News reports that US Rapper Macklemore announced cancellation of his Dubai show, stating, “Over the last several months I’ve had a number of people reach out to me” regarding Sudan’s situation. Macklemore expressed solidarity with Sudan, saying, “Until the UAE stops arming and funding the RSF I will not perform there.” Sudan’s government accused the UAE of supporting the RSF, while the UAE denies these claims amid ongoing peace talks.
Former WP NCMP Yee Jenn Jong issued POFMA order over false claims about AHTC investigation
CNA reports that a Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) correction direction was issued to former Workers’ Party (WP) NCMP Yee Jenn Jong on Monday (Aug 26). The Ministry of National Development (MND) said Mr. Yee had published posts on his Facebook page last month that falsely claimed the actions taken by the ministry against the Aljunied-Hougang Town Council (AHTC) were “politically motivated”, among other assertions. The Minister for National Development has instructed the POFMA Office to issue a correction direction under the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act 2019 to Mr. Yee in respect of his Facebook posts on Jul 25 and 27, 2024, reported that MND.