Observers argue that without tangible improvements in law and order, the legitimacy of the polls may be called into question by both domestic actors and international watchdogs.

With just over a month left before Bangladesh’s national election, escalating political killings and persistent public safety concerns have intensified scrutiny of the country’s law-and-order environment, political leaders and civil society groups warn. The spate of targeted killings since the election schedule was announced on December 11, 2025, has alarmed political parties, rights activists and ordinary citizens alike, threatening to dampen voter enthusiasm and raise questions about the authorities’ readiness to ensure a secure electoral process.

Political Leaders Sound the Alarm

On January 9, 2026, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), publicly voiced deep concerns about the country’s deteriorating security situation ahead of the polls, expressing dissatisfaction with the performance of law enforcement agencies. Speaking to reporters, Fakhrul said the rate at which political leaders and activists are being killed is “truly worrying,” particularly highlighting the fatalities among members of his own party.

Fakhrul reiterated the BNP’s condemnation of the murders and urged the government to take “responsible” action to prevent further violence as the election nears. He also discussed the expected visit of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman to northern districts, describing it as a personal goodwill tour intended to inspire grassroots leaders.

The BNP leader’s comments reflect growing frustration within the political party ranks over what they see as weak responses by authorities to recent attacks. Fakhrul’s remarks come amid broader political friction over campaign dynamics and public safety – themes now dominating national discourse as polls approach.

Scope and Scale of Political Killings

According to data compiled by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) and local media, at least eight political killings have occurred since the election schedule was unveiled, often involving firearms and taking place in public or populated settings. These incidents have left communities shaken and questioning whether security forces are prepared to protect political activists and voters alike.

Among the victims was Azizur Rahman Musabbir, a former Swechchhasebak Dal leader, who was shot near Karwan Bazar in Dhaka in the evening hours. Likewise, Jane Alam Sikder, a former BNP youth wing leader, was killed by assailants on a motorcycle in Chattogram’s Rausha area – a startling incident that occurred barely 500 metres from a police investigation centre.

Additional fatalities included Alamgir Hossain, another BNP leader gunned down in Jashore, and a Chhatra Dal activist killed in Bhola while travelling for a political event. Other victims have included community leaders such as Saiful Sardar and Farid Sarkar, killed in Faridpur and Gazipur districts respectively. These attacks form part of an unsettling pattern that has continued unabated in recent weeks.

Human Rights Support Society and independent observers recorded nearly 60 incidents of political violence in December alone, resulting in four deaths and over 500 injuries. These figures underscore not only the human toll of the violence but also the heightened risk facing politically active citizens.

Public Anxiety and Law-and-Order Lapses

Public anxiety has been further fuelled by broader safety concerns. In the first week of the new year, multiple murders – some unrelated to political activity – were reported, including several in the capital. Police data reveals that over a thousand firearms looted during the July 2024 uprising remain unaccounted for, and roughly 710 inmates who escaped from various prisons have yet to be apprehended, raising fears that uncontrolled weapons and fugitives may be contributing to the spike in violence.

Experts argue that while the government’s ongoing law-enforcement operations are necessary, they have yet to effectively tackle the security challenges facing the nation. Dr Tawhidul Haque, an associate professor at Dhaka University’s Institute of Social Welfare and Research, said current measures are insufficient to quell both general crime and politically motivated attacks as the electorate prepares for the polls.

Civil society voices have echoed these concerns. Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, spokesperson for the National Citizen Party, described the law-and-order situation as “very disappointing” and urged the Election Commission to increase security presence at grassroots levels, warning that perceived state inaction could deter voter participation.

Despite these criticisms, police officials maintain that efforts to maintain public safety are ongoing. Assistant Inspector General AHM Sahadat Hossain stated that police patrols, operations against criminals, intelligence surveillance and legal actions are being strengthened to protect lives and property amid dynamic circumstances.

Election Integrity at Stake

For many Bangladeshis, the recent violence raises fundamental concerns about the quality and integrity of the democratic process. Political killings – particularly those involving well-known activists – not only chill civic engagement but also risk undermining faith in electoral fairness and safety.

As election day draws closer, the government and electoral authorities face mounting pressure to reassure voters that their safety will be safeguarded. Observers argue that without tangible improvements in law and order, the legitimacy of the polls may be called into question by both domestic actors and international watchdogs.

For now, Bangladesh remains at a crossroads where political ambition, public safety and democratic norms intersect – with the coming weeks poised to test the resilience of its institutions and the resolve of its people.