Former foreign minister and Awami League joint general secretary Hasan Mahmud reportedly attended a barbecue gathering in Hasselt, Belgium, on August 21, a day observed by the party as one of mourning and remembrance for the victims of the 2004 grenade attack.
The gathering has drawn discussion on social media and among sections of Awami League supporters because August 21 carries particular political and emotional significance for the party. While Awami League leaders and activists observed the day through various commemorative programmes, Hasan Mahmud was reportedly present at a private barbecue hosted at the home of an acquaintance in Hasselt.
The event reportedly featured grilled meat, sausages and other food, with several people attending. A number of members of the Belgium Awami League were also said to have been invited. However, according to people familiar with the matter, most of those invited did not attend, resulting in limited participation by local party activists.
The date is closely associated with one of the deadliest political attacks in Bangladesh’s recent history. On August 21, 2004, a grenade attack was carried out during an Awami League rally at Bangabandhu Avenue in Dhaka. Twenty-four party supporters and leaders were killed, while then opposition leader Sheikh Hasina was among those injured. Numerous other party members and supporters were also wounded.
Hasan Mahmud himself was injured in the attack. Over the years, he has spoken publicly about the incident and described his experience of the attack as a significant episode in his political life. His reported participation in a social gathering on the anniversary has therefore attracted particular attention.
August 21 is traditionally marked by the Awami League with remembrance programmes, discussions, prayers and tributes to those who died in the attack. The day remains a politically sensitive occasion for the party and its supporters.
Hasan Mahmud has remained outside Bangladesh for an extended period since the Awami League-led government was removed from power on August 5, 2024. He has reportedly been staying in Belgium. People familiar with his movements have also indicated that he may travel to Canada for a visit of around 10 days, although details of any such trip have not been publicly confirmed.
The barbecue gathering has consequently prompted questions about the appropriateness of holding or attending a celebratory-style social event on a day associated with mourning. Reactions have varied, with the incident becoming a subject of discussion among members and supporters of the party abroad.
