In Gosairhat, Shariatpur, supporters of the Awami League and its affiliated organisations staged a sudden torch-lit rally in the dead of night on Thursday, 25 December. The procession, which emerged unexpectedly with banners, has generated significant attention both locally and on social media.
Participants carried banners that read: “Torch rally against the destructive acts of the illegal Yunus government and its unlawful schedules. Organised by the grassroots Awami League, Gosairhat, Shariatpur.” A video of the rally has since gone viral on Facebook, sparking widespread discussion among political circles and residents alike.
This marks the first public political activity in Gosairhat since 5 August, when the Awami League government fell. Local sources confirmed that following the discreet foreign trip of party leader Sheikh Hasina on 5 August, party activities in the area had largely been dormant.
Eyewitnesses reported that the march moved swiftly through several streets, with participants carrying banners and chanting party slogans. Notably, no senior party leaders were seen at the rally. Most attendees had their faces partially covered with masks or cloth. The banners predominantly featured former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Water Resources Minister Abdur Razzak, with no mention of other political figures. Slogans such as “Sheikh Hasina will return, Bangladesh will rejoice” were prominently displayed. Several Facebook pages affiliated with the Awami League also shared images and videos of the event.
The rally has stirred concern among local political figures. A former Chhatra Dal leader, speaking anonymously, urged the authorities to take immediate action within 24 hours against anyone holding banned Awami League banners or organising marches that disrupt public peace in Gosairhat. He warned that any failure to act could lead to undesirable consequences for which the administration would be held responsible.
Repeated attempts to contact Officer-in-Charge of Gosairhat Police Station, Md Azizul Islam, for comment were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to phone calls.
Key Details of the Rally:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | 25 December, Midnight |
| Location | Gosairhat, Shariatpur |
| Organisers | Grassroots Awami League & affiliates |
| Slogans | “Sheikh Hasina will return, Bangladesh will rejoice” |
| Notable Figures | None publicly present; banners feature Sheikh Hasina & Abdur Razzak |
| Social Media Impact | Video went viral on Facebook |
| Public Reaction | Widespread discussion and concern among locals and political circles |
The incident highlights a renewed assertiveness by the Awami League in the area, raising questions about the potential for further political mobilisation amid ongoing tensions.