In Rangamati, Bangladesh, tensions have escalated within the ranks of the Nationalist Student Party following the announcement of a newly formed district committee, triggering protests from a section of disgruntled activists who claim they have been unfairly excluded from leadership positions.
The 23-member partially announced district committee, declared on Saturday night, immediately sparked controversy within the organisation. Almost as soon as the names were released, dissatisfied members took to social media to voice strong objections, questioning both the selection process and the credibility of the leadership structure. Critics alleged that the formation was influenced by financial dealings and personal connections, rather than merit and organisational dedication.
According to the protesting faction, several individuals appointed to key positions were either inactive in party activities for an extended period, residing outside the district, or failing to meet what they consider the basic criteria of organisational involvement. The inclusion of married individuals in key student leadership roles also became a point of contention among activists.
The most significant controversy arose over the appointment of the general secretary, a leader reportedly brought in from Rajosthali Upazila. Local activists argued that this decision undermines long-standing grassroots members in Rangamati town and disregards established organisational structures.
The discontent quickly translated into street demonstrations. On Sunday morning, a group of protesting activists brought out a procession from the Rangamati Municipal area, which moved through major roads before gathering in front of the BNP office at Kathaltoli. During the protest, tyres were set alight on the roadway, temporarily disrupting traffic flow in surrounding areas. Demonstrators raised slogans demanding immediate cancellation of the committee, accusing the leadership of corruption and procedural irregularities.
Some members of the newly announced committee were also reportedly present during the protest, publicly expressing disagreement with the formation process, highlighting internal divisions within the organisation.
Key positions and reported controversies
| Position | Reported issue/controversy |
|---|---|
| General Secretary | Appointed from Rajosthali; questioned local acceptance |
| Vice President | Participated in protest demanding cancellation |
| Senior Joint General Secretary | Expressed dissatisfaction with decision |
| Joint Secretary | Alleged financial influence in selection |
| Publicity Secretary | Attended protest in support of dissent |
Vice President Noor Talukder Munna stated that many activists in Rangamati do not even recognise the newly appointed general secretary, arguing that such leadership choices are disconnected from ground realities and therefore unacceptable.
Joint Secretary Parvez Hossain Suman further alleged that the committee was formed through financial incentives and personal gifts, including mobile phones, claims which he said directly contradict the organisation’s core principles. He called for the immediate dissolution of the committee and urged the formation of a new leadership body comprising active and dedicated student workers.
In response, newly appointed committee president Oli Ahad defended the formation process, acknowledging that complete satisfaction among all members is unlikely in any large organisation. He emphasised the importance of maintaining discipline and urged all members to respect the decisions of the central leadership.
It is worth noting that the last full district committee of the student organisation in Rangamati was formed in May 2018, and has since played a central role in local political mobilisation. The current dispute highlights ongoing internal friction and underscores the challenges of balancing factional interests within student political organisations in the region.