Bangladesh BNP crackdown on alleged crime sparks anxiety among party leaders

A tougher Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) stance against members accused of criminal activity has fueled concern among party leaders facing allegations of extortion, land grabbing, tender manipulation, drug trading, and other offenses.

BNP chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has ordered strict action against members whose activities violate the law or damage the party’s image. Party units have also been directed to compile information on accused leaders and activists.

Recent measures followed incidents in Dhaka, including vandalism in Mirpur and clashes during a hawker eviction drive. BNP dissolved three Dhaka committees on Sept. 30 and expelled several leaders.

“There is a sense of fear among everyone. Those involved in crimes are particularly anxious,” BNP joint secretary general Syed Emran Saleh Prince said.

Party sources said about 400 to 500 leaders and activists have been expelled since BNP formed the government in February, and more than 4,000 since Aug. 5, 2024.