Growing tension ahead of the 17 November verdict against Sheikh Hasina as experts warn of rising violence and political unrest across Bangladesh. Increasing violence threat around Sheikh Hasina’s verdict becomes major challenge.
In a case involving crimes against humanity, ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Kamal, and former IGP Abdullah Al Mamun have been named as defendants. The verdict is set to be announced on 17 November, marking the first judgment since the establishment of the International Crimes Tribunal.
Since being ousted through a mass uprising, leaders and activists of the banned Awami League and its affiliated bodies have attempted several flash processions. For the first time, the party announced a ‘Dhaka Lockdown’ program ahead of the verdict. Soon after, scattered incidents of covert attacks—such as crude bomb explosions and arson—began spreading across different areas.
Political analysts fear that the closer the verdict date approaches, the higher the risk of violence becomes. They believe a large amount of money may also be spent to escalate tensions.
Analyst Altaf Parvez said that more such programs from the Awami League may emerge in the coming days. “Setting fires, burning buses—these seem to have become our destiny,” he remarked.
Historian and researcher Dr. Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan stated that the party has both money and weapons. “It is said that nearly 8,000 leaders and activists possess illegal arms,” he added.
Experts recalled that the party’s violent movements in 1996 and 2006 still remain strong reminders—leading them to believe the banned Awami League may again walk the same path. In this situation, they say the primary responsibility falls on law enforcement agencies.
Dr. Siddiqur Rahman Khan further said, “We have seen people being beaten to death on the streets. Recent activities are increasing concern. The government and security forces should tighten strict monitoring.”
Meanwhile, besides Sheikh Hasina’s case, several other cases at the International Crimes Tribunal are nearing completion. At the same time, preparations for the 13th national parliamentary election are underway—something analysts fear may further intensify political instability.
Altaf Parvez said the Awami League will continue announcing programs, while rival parties will attempt to resist them. This may escalate election-related violence, he warned.
It is noteworthy that after the mass uprising, the activities of the Awami League were banned and the party’s registration was suspended. Chhatra League and other affiliated organizations also faced the same prohibition.
Source: Jamuna TV