Bangladesh Awami League
A fresh wave of debate has erupted in Habiganj after a video showing several activists chanting slogans in front of the damaged district office of the Bangladesh Awami League (whose activities are currently banned) circulated widely on social media.
The footage was posted on the verified Facebook account of Advocate Md Abu Zahir, president of the Habiganj district unit of the party, who is presently abroad. The post, uploaded at approximately 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 18 February, bore the caption: “Awami League office open.” The brief but pointed declaration has since triggered political discussion and administrative scrutiny.
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Scene in the Video
The video appears to show a small group of individuals standing in the open space before the party’s district office on Town Hall Road in Habiganj town. Some are seen holding the national flag alongside party flags while chanting slogans calling for the resumption of organisational activities.
However, uncertainty remains over when the footage was recorded and under what circumstances. The authenticity, timing, and context of the video have not yet been independently verified.
Police Response
Habiganj Superintendent of Police, Yasmin Khatun, told journalists that immediate verification of the viral footage was not possible. She confirmed that a technical examination had been initiated to determine whether the recording was made on 18 February or at an earlier date.
“The video will be analysed by specialists to verify its time, location, and relevance. No conclusions can be drawn without confirmed information,” she stated.
Authorities indicated that digital forensic methods, including metadata analysis and cross-referencing with surveillance or mobile network data, may be employed to establish the timeline.
Background: Office Fire and Suspension of Activities
The district office in question has remained effectively abandoned since an arson attack on 2 August 2024. During that incident, a portion of the building was set ablaze, causing structural damage and destroying furniture and documents. Since then, regular organisational activities have not resumed at the premises.
Below is a summary timeline of key events:
| Date | Event | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| 2 August 2024 | Arson attack on district office | Partial structural damage; activities suspended |
| Post-August 2024 | Office largely abandoned | No regular organisational programmes |
| 18 February 2026 (Morning) | Video and photos posted online | Caption declares office “open” |
| 18 February 2026 | Police announce investigation | Authenticity and timing under review |
Local Reactions
Several local residents told reporters they were unaware of any organised gathering or public demonstration at the site on Wednesday morning. Some speculated that the video might have been recorded in a limited setting to create a symbolic impression. Others suggested it could be footage from an earlier programme.
Political analysts argue that declaring a previously damaged and inactive office “open” may carry symbolic significance, particularly in a politically sensitive environment. Yet, they caution that any move suggesting renewed organisational activity—while restrictions remain in place—could have implications for public order.
For now, the matter remains under official investigation. Authorities have emphasised that only after technical verification will the true sequence of events and its broader significance become clear.