A violent start to Bangladesh’s election season left one person dead and two others injured, including a candidate, after gunmen on motorbikes opened fire during a political rally in Chattogram. The attack occurred just a day after major parties launched their campaigns for the February 2026 general elections — the first since last year’s uprising that ousted former ruler Sheikh Hasina.
The Bangladesh National Party (BNP), seen as the leading contender in the polls, was holding the rally when shots were fired into the crowd. According to police, the assailants quickly escaped after opening fire. BNP candidate Ershad Ullah was wounded, along with one supporter, while another man was killed on the spot.
Senior BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury condemned the attack, calling it a deliberate attempt to destabilize politics and disrupt the upcoming election.
Authorities have urged political candidates to inform local police in advance before holding rallies to ensure proper security arrangements.
Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has launched an investigation into the attack. Yunus appealed for calm and urged all parties to maintain peace and dignity during the election period.
Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi military announced it will provide security during the polls and return to barracks once the elections conclude. Police have also offered cash rewards for the surrender of over 1,300 weapons stolen during last year’s unrest.
BNP leader Khaleda Zia, 80, and her son Tarique Rahman have announced their participation in the upcoming elections. The Jamaat-e-Islami party also confirmed it is preparing its candidate list and considering alliances with other parties.
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