Mob Violence Deeply Divides Nation, Warns BNP Leader

The escalating wave of mob violence across the country is fragmenting national unity, warned BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Speaking on the issue, he emphasised that exploiting crises and spreading violence is entirely incompatible with the principles of a democratic society. Such actions, he argued, severely undermine social harmony, the rule of law, and the overall political stability of the nation.

On Friday, 19 December, a photo card featuring Fakhrul’s statement was published on the BNP’s verified Facebook page, following a strong message he issued hours earlier condemning mob violence. “Those who wait for moments of national crisis to exploit them are enemies of this country. They lie in wait for turmoil. I strongly protest this wave of mob terror,” he declared.

His remarks come in the wake of violent incidents surrounding the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, convenor of the Inqilab Mancha. Hadi, who was critically wounded in a shooting, passed away in Singapore late on Thursday evening at 9:45 pm while undergoing treatment. Following the announcement of his death, an agitated segment of protesters engaged in vandalism and arson across multiple locations in the country, including attacks on the offices of two media outlets, raising serious concerns among civil society and journalists.

In response, Inqilab Mancha announced via their Facebook page that Hadi’s body is expected to arrive in Dhaka by the evening, after which it will be placed at the Central Mosque of Dhaka University for public homage. Hadi, a prospective candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency in the forthcoming national elections, had been shot on 20 December during election campaigning. Following initial treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later admission to the ICU at Evercare Hospital, he was transferred to Singapore for advanced medical care.

According to law enforcement sources, Faisal Karim Masud has been identified as the shooter, with Almir Sheikh assisting as a motorcycle driver. Both individuals are reported to have crossed the border illegally into India. Police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) authorities have so far arrested 14 individuals in connection with the case.

Analysts warn that alongside strict legal action, political parties must act responsibly to prevent further violence. Failure to do so risks deepening national divisions and weakening the democratic process, underscoring the urgent need for restraint, accountability, and the reinforcement of the rule of law.