Slogans Signal Bid to Reopen Party Office

Bangladesh Awami League leaders and activists in Habiganj have sparked fresh debate after videos surfaced online showing a small group chanting slogans in front of the party’s long-abandoned district office. The footage, widely circulated on Facebook on Wednesday morning (18 February), appears to show supporters standing before the fire-damaged premises and declaring it open once again.

The videos and accompanying photographs were posted by Advocate Md Abu Zahir, President of the Habiganj District unit of the Awami League, who is currently abroad. Writing on his verified Facebook account, he announced, “Awami League office open,” suggesting a symbolic reopening of the premises despite the party’s activities remaining officially prohibited in the district.

Background to the Incident

The district office, located on Town Hall Road in Habiganj town, has remained deserted since it was set ablaze on 2 August 2024 amid political unrest. The arson attack left the building partially destroyed, with scorched walls, damaged furnishings and shattered windows. Since then, no formal restoration work has been undertaken, and the office has stood as a visible reminder of local political tensions.In the newly circulated footage, several individuals are seen holding the national flag of Bangladesh alongside party flags, chanting slogans in front of the charred building. However, local residents have stated that they were unaware of any organised reopening event and did not witness a significant gathering.

Police Response

Habiganj Superintendent of Police Yasmin Khatun confirmed that law enforcement authorities had reviewed the footage but were yet to verify its authenticity or timing.

“We have seen the video. Whether the incident occurred today (18 February) or is an older recording will be determined through expert examination,” she said.

Police officials indicated that forensic analysis would be used to establish the recording date and assess whether any legal violations had occurred, particularly given the reported restrictions on the party’s activities.

Timeline of Key Events

Wider Political Context

The incident unfolds against a backdrop of heightened political sensitivity in Habiganj and across the country. Although the Awami League retains a significant national presence, its district-level operations in Habiganj have reportedly faced administrative and legal constraints. Analysts suggest that the symbolic reopening, if confirmed as recent, could represent an attempt by local leaders to demonstrate continued organisational cohesion despite restrictions.

At present, authorities have not confirmed whether any formal reopening took place or whether the gathering was authorised. The outcome of the police investigation is expected to clarify both the timing of the footage and the legality of the event.

Until then, the charred building on Town Hall Road remains both a physical and symbolic focal point of local political contention.