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Bangladesh

“BNP Reinstates Leader Amid Stone Theft Allegations”

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 2nd January 2026, 3:39 PM

“BNP Reinstates Leader Amid Stone Theft Allegations”

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has reinstated Md. Sahab Uddin as president of its Companyganj Upazila unit in Sylhet, ending a suspension that had lasted several months. Sahab Uddin was previously suspended following allegations of involvement in the looting of government limestone and illegal land acquisition.

The party issued a notice on Thursday, signed by Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, officially withdrawing the suspension. Confirming the decision on Friday evening, Sylhet District BNP President Abdul Kaiyum Chowdhury told Prothom Alo:

“Sahab Uddin’s suspension was imposed due to violations of party discipline and actions contrary to BNP’s principles and ideology. Following his appeal, the suspension has been revoked effective from 1 January.”

Allegations and Key Events

Sahab Uddin has been at the centre of political controversy in the region for over a year. Below is a summary of key incidents related to his suspension and alleged misconduct:

Date Event Action / Remarks
11 August 2025 Central BNP suspends Sahab Uddin Allegations of extortion, illegal land occupation, and unethical activities
13 September 2025 Arrested by RAB-9 Taken into custody for questioning over government limestone theft case
17 March 2025 Government land occupation reported 150 acres of government land reportedly occupied illegally
18 March 2025 Eviction operation Around 70 acres recovered; 100 stone-breaking machines and 50 tin-shed structures demolished
19 March 2025 BNP district notice Show-cause notice issued; three-member investigation committee formed
10 April 2025 Investigation report submitted Visit to Bholaganj stone quarry; evidence of involvement by Sahab Uddin and family members documented

According to local sources, the investigative report stated:

“It was unimaginable that such widespread illegal activity could occur under the Upazila President’s leadership. These events have tarnished the party’s reputation and weakened its local leadership.”

Reactions and Political Implications

The reinstatement has elicited mixed reactions among BNP’s internal leadership. While the central leadership frames it as a measure to restore party discipline, political analysts caution that Sahab Uddin’s return will require stringent oversight and close coordination with authorities to avoid further controversy.

The episode has reignited debate over political accountability and ethical leadership within the party, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining internal unity and responding to public opinion. Observers suggest that BNP faces ongoing challenges in ensuring both transparency and cohesion at the local level.

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