Jamaat, allies warn of public resistance if post-election violence continues

Jamaat, allies warn of public resistance if post-election violence continues
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and its 11-party electoral alliance hold a protest rally at the North Gate of Baitul Mukarram in Dhaka on Monday afternoon. Photo: Collected

Online Desk

Published: 2026-02-16 21:48:14

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and its 11-party electoral alliance on Monday warned that the country could witness public unrest if post-election violence against opposition activists continues unchecked.

The warning came during a protest rally held at the North Gate of Baitul Mukarram in Dhaka in the afternoon, followed by a procession to Shahbagh.

Leaders of the alliance accused the ruling BNP and its allies of carrying out attacks, arson, vandalism and intimidation targeting their members since the 12 February general election.

Speaking at the rally, Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar said the country could face another mass uprising if such violence is not halted.

He also urged the Election Commission to promptly address the allegations of electoral irregularities raised by the alliance, warning that unresolved complaints could further fuel public anger.

Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish Ameer Mamunul Haque echoed Parwar’s concerns, alleging that voters’ rights were undermined.

He claimed that while the election appeared orderly during the day, manipulation occurred after nightfall.

Without citing specific incidents, Mamunul warned that a party once subjected to repression is now allegedly using similar tactics against political rivals.

Referring to last year’s political movement, he said citizens who “shed blood to remove fascism” would not hesitate to return to the streets if democratic commitments, including the July Charter, are ignored.

National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary also accused authorities of widespread vote rigging and continuing post-election violence.

He cautioned that those responsible for attacks and extortion would eventually be held accountable.

Patwary further stated that the 11-party alliance intends to remain active both on the streets and in parliament, aiming to function as a strong opposition bloc.

The alliance also demanded a fair investigation into the killing of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, pledging to pursue justice through political and parliamentary channels.