Bangladesh political violence persists amid BNP power struggles

Despite recent political shifts in Bangladesh, including the 2024 uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina and the subsequent return to power of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), deadly grassroots clashes continue to occur. Reports indicate that internal disputes and struggles for local control are resulting in loss of life.

In October 2024, Ripon Mia, a local leader of the BNP youth wing Jubo Dal, was reportedly killed in Narayanganj district following an attack with sharp weapons. Local activists suggested the violence stemmed from a rivalry between factions regarding a religious event guest list.

Earlier this year, clashes between BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) supporters in the Chuadanga district resulted in the deaths of two brothers, Hafizur Rahman and Mofizur Rahman. The violence reportedly broke out following an argument during a Ramadan fast-breaking meal.