A video showing the hoisting of flags and the chanting of political slogans at the demolished district office of the Bangladesh Awami League in Kishoreganj has gone viral on social media, reigniting debate over the region’s volatile political climate. The site, which was levelled approximately eighteen months ago amid unrest, has once again become a focal point of symbolic political activity.
The footage, widely circulated on Thursday afternoon, shows a group of activists gathered in front of the ruins of the former party office. The gathering was reportedly led by Chhatra League leader Kamrul Islam, also known as Ratan. Participants were seen displaying a banner bearing the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, alongside a slogan declaring the enduring presence of his political legacy: “Bangabandhu’s Awami League existed, exists, and will continue to exist.” The lower portion of the banner reportedly included the name of Russell Ahmed, identified as the son of former President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, adding a further political dimension to the display.
Chants of “Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu” echoed throughout the gathering, accompanied by other slogans invoking loyalty and resistance. Several individuals were also seen raising both the national flag of Bangladesh and the party’s flag, underscoring the symbolic intent of the demonstration. Observers note that such acts often carry strong political messaging, particularly in sites previously associated with conflict or protest.
Local law enforcement has yet to issue a definitive statement. Superintendent of Police S M Farhad Hossain stated that he was not immediately aware of the incident but confirmed that inquiries were underway. Authorities are expected to assess whether the gathering breached any public order regulations, especially given the site’s history.
The background to this is rooted in the political upheaval of 2024. On 4 August that year, during a period of nationwide unrest, and particularly following the fall of the government led by Sheikh Hasina on 5 August amid mass protests, the Kishoreganj district Awami League office was attacked by demonstrators. The building was vandalised, set ablaze, and left severely damaged.
Approximately six months later, on 6 February 2025, the already abandoned structure was subjected to further destruction. It was reportedly set on fire once more and subsequently demolished using heavy machinery. In a striking act of defacement, the words “Public Toilet” were scrawled on a remaining fragment of the wall—an act widely interpreted as a symbol of public anger during that period.
Below is a brief timeline outlining the key Events:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 4–5 August 2024 | массовые protests; office attacked, vandalised, and burned |
| 6 February 2025 | building set ablaze again and demolished with bulldozers |
| Recent (2026) | flags raised and slogans chanted; video goes viral |
Political analysts suggest that the latest incident may represent an attempt to reassert organisational presence and morale among supporters. However, it also raises concerns about the potential for renewed tensions in an area still marked by recent Conflict. The response of local authorities in the coming days will likely play a crucial role in determining whether the situation remains contained or escalates further.