The brutal murder in front of Mitford Hospital in Old Dhaka placed the opposition BNP under pressure. In the week that followed, a multi-pronged campaign was launched against the party.

Just days later, on 16 July, supporters of the banned Awami League and its affiliated organisations launched a barbaric attack on a peaceful programme organised by the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) in Gopalganj. That incident would go on to change the political landscape.

Political observers say that BNP’s tolerant posture and expression of solidarity towards those who had been accused of chanting defamatory slogans against its top leadership—over the incident at Mitford Hospital—reflects a sign of democratic maturity.

According to them, in a political culture where annihilating the opposition is often prioritised over exposing their weaknesses, BNP’s decision to avoid retaliatory politics and instead demonstrate civility and empathy towards dissent is indicative of a new political ethic—one where rivalry exists without hatred, and differences in opinion are not treated as enmity.

Analysts also suggest that the months-long strategy to portray BNP as a criminal group—branding it a party of extortionists—based on isolated incidents and pressure over issues of elections and reform, may now be faltering. BNP’s measured and tolerant response to its rivals is, they argue, helping to restore public confidence in the party.

On the afternoon of July 9, a young man named Md. Sohag, also known as Lal Chand, was killed by a blow with a stone following a business dispute in front of Mitford Hospital. However, the incident was widely circulated as being tied to extortion, and a coordinated campaign was launched against the BNP. Uncouth slogans and vulgar remarks, particularly targeting the party’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman, surfaced in the aftermath. Allegations of incitement were directed at Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party (NCP). While BNP’s central leadership did not name any specific party, supporters of the party openly accused Jamaat and NCP of playing an active role in the character assassination attempt against Tarique Rahman, and continued to protest accordingly.

Then on July 16, the NCP came under attack in Gopalganj. Ahead of the party’s pre-declared July march and rally, widespread violence and sabotage were carried out by cadres of the fallen fascist Awami League. Police vehicles were vandalised and set ablaze, an attack was launched on the UN official's motorcade, the NCP’s rally stage was destroyed, and further attacks were carried out during their return by members of the banned militant wings—Chhatra League and Jubo League.

BNP immediately condemned the assault on the NCP’s programme. Criticising the government’s inaction, the party also demanded swift justice against those responsible for the violence. Beyond issuing formal statements, BNP's student wing, Chhatra Dal, also announced they would remain vigilant to ensure no violence occurs during the NCP’s next programme in Faridpur. Leaders of the Faridpur district Chhatra Dal stated they would stay active to maintain a democratic atmosphere. In addition, BNP district leaders expressed support for the NCP’s right to hold its programme, despite political differences.

NCP’s Emergence and Controversy

The July uprising took place with the participation of students and citizens. Alongside general students from public and private universities and colleges, various political parties and people from all walks of life were actively involved. However, after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s fascist government on  August 5, much of the credit for the uprising came to be claimed by the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, who emerged as the spokespersons of the movement.

Despite the crucial role played by students from private universities, media coverage and political analysis largely focused on students from public institutions. As a result, the broader base of the movement was overlooked.

Later, a new political party—the National Citizen Party (NCP)—was formed under the leadership of student leaders from public universities. According to observers, once the political party was established, the emotional support and momentum built during the movement began to waver. Some direct and suggestive statements from certain NCP leaders contributed to internal divisions.

Analysts believe that various comments made by top NCP leaders regarding the military, BNP, and other issues—as well as some activities of the party’s members—triggered controversy. This brought their leadership under scrutiny and created confusion among the general public.

Many believe that although NCP entered politics riding the wave of emotion from the movement, the party still lacks the political maturity and pragmatism required to navigate its consequences and realities. As a result, while NCP remains rooted in a movement-based identity, it has yet to become a viable political alternative.

Jamaat’s Stance 

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami, which—like BNP—was repressed under the fascist rule of the Awami League, found a major opportunity in the post-uprising political landscape. Capitalising on this moment, Jamaat became active in attempting to establish itself as an alternative political force.

In contrast to BNP’s demand for swift elections through necessary reforms, Jamaat and NCP raised their voices on a range of issues, including justice and broader reforms. This was also seen as part of efforts to increase pressure on the BNP.

However, after a meeting on June 13 in London between BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman and chief adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, a deadline for national elections was set for February. This brought some relief to the BNP-led camp.

Still, Jamaat and other parties criticised this timeline, arguing that other political parties had been sidelined during the process.

Subsequently, the BNP, Jamaat, and NCP took increasingly divergent positions on a number of crucial issues such as local government elections, proportional representation, and fixed terms for the prime minister.

At the same time, a narrative emerged in the political arena claiming “BNP does not want reform,” which further damaged the party’s public image. This was compounded by the reckless behaviour of some of BNP’s so-called “fair-weather” leaders and activists.

BNP’s Call for Coexistence Draws Political Attention

Following the Gopalganj incident, BNP returned to the political spotlight by taking a stance against fascism and in support of the July uprising. The party’s declaration in favour of political coexistence and protecting the rights of its rivals indicates a strategic shift: instead of viewing the NCP as an opponent, BNP appears to be treating them as a companion force in a broader alliance against fascist behaviour.

Though BNP leaders and activists at various levels have made critical remarks about political rivals, since August 5, the party’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has maintained political courtesy and tolerance. Since the July uprising, he has continued to uphold cordial relations with pro-uprising political parties. Despite existing differences, he has repeatedly emphasised the need for unity in the greater interest of protecting democracy.

According to political observers, this political maturity is transforming Tarique Rahman, BNP’s top leader, into an experienced, prudent, and patient national strategist. Amid ongoing political unrest, the way he is avoiding conflict and promoting political harmony is being seen as an example of mature leadership in Bangladesh’s political context.

Journalist, teacher, and columnist Anis Alamgir said in a Facebook post: “There’s been a noticeable shift in Tarique Rahman’s tone since August 5. It seems to us that in a post-Sheikh Hasina Bangladesh, he is stepping into the role of a statesman. If you follow recent political events, you’ll see how BNP is being attacked from all sides—as if everyone is trying to topple them before they even come to power.”

Dr Dilara Chowdhury, former professor of political science at Jahangirnagar University, told Banglanews: “The country is going through a period of grave crisis. All political parties must unite and act in the interest of the nation. Tarique Rahman is providing wise leadership, which is desirable. However, had he returned to the country and led the party in person, he may have been better positioned to manage the internal disarray. I don’t know why he hasn’t returned.”

Political observers believe Tarique Rahman, BNP’s acting chairman, is being deliberately targeted during this crisis period. As he prepares for a return to a post-authoritarian Bangladesh, senior BNP leaders claim a group is trying to destroy his character. They argue that conspirators do not want him to take firm control of the party and are therefore waging targeted campaigns against him, particularly on social media. According to them, the ultimate goal is to dismantle his leadership.

Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee, BNP’s Joint Secretary General, said the party—having endured brutal repression for the past 16–17 years—has no interest in retaliatory politics. Rather, with patience and resolve, it seeks to restore democracy by uniting with all political forces.

Speaking to Banglanews, he said: “The country has long been under the grip of fascism. We do not want any further conflict. BNP leaders and activists have been the most affected by fascist attacks. Even so, we do not wish to seek revenge. We aim to coexist with all parties and restore democracy. Unfortunately, some political groups are spreading misinformation about the BNP and Tarique Rahman. We urge them to stop such campaigns in the interest of the nation. This is not a time for division, but for unity—to move the country forward together.”

Political observers believe BNP’s response to the incidents at Mitford and the attack on the NCP’s peaceful rally in Gopalganj proves the party is no longer focused solely on its political gains. Instead, it is evolving into a potential foundation for democratic consensus.

Moreover, the party’s internal reform efforts and its declared intent to uphold the rights of political opponents suggest that BNP is preparing not to lead a politics of vengeance, but to emerge as a mature force capable of championing democratic values.

The question now is whether BNP can sustain this transformation. Can it follow this path of principle and integrity long enough to become a true centre of gravity in national politics? Or will it, too, change course once it returns to power? Political analysts believe only time will tell.

SMS/