Bangladesh is currently engulfed in a turbulent and unsettling political crisis marked by escalating violence, political assassinations, and deepening public unrest. As the nation approaches its February 2026 parliamentary elections, the political climate has grown increasingly volatile. Recent attacks on political figures and demonstrations of public discontent illustrate a scenario that threatens not only the democratic process but also social cohesion and law and order across the country.
The latest flashpoint in this spiraling crisis occurred on December 22, 2025, when Motaleb Shikdar, a senior leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP), was shot in broad daylight in the southern city of Khulna. Shikdar, who serves as the Khulna divisional chief of the NCP and is a central organiser of the party’s labour wing, was critically injured when unknown assailants opened fire near Gazi Medical College Hospital. Local residents rushed him to Khulna Medical College Hospital where he is currently under treatment, and police have deployed forces to investigate the incident. Details about the violence, attackers and their motives remain unclear but the public shooting has further alarmed citizens and political observers alike. The Daily Star+1
This attack follows closely on the heels of the assassination of another prominent political figure. Earlier in December, Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a well-known student leader and spokesperson for the Inqilab Mancha movement, was shot by masked assailants in Dhaka’s Paltan area while campaigning. Hadi’s injuries were severe enough to require emergency medical evacuation to Singapore, where he ultimately succumbed to his wounds. His killing triggered nationwide protests, with demonstrators expressing anger at his death and the perceived insecurity threatening the political landscape. Excessive demonstrations of violence erupted in response to Hadi’s death included vandalism of major media outlets and attacks on symbols associated with the previous political establishment, illustrating the intense public outrage simmering beneath the surface. Reuters
The sequence of violent events underscores the deepening political instability in Bangladesh. Accusations have been levied by various factions about the root causes of the unrest. Some critics blame the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus for failing to provide security and for mishandling the transition back to democratic elections. They argue that lax law enforcement and political targeting have emboldened radical elements within the country. Others point to external influences as contributing factors to the unrest. Several Awami League leaders in exile have alleged that foreign anti-India forces are exploiting the political vacuum and stirring violence to derail the election process and disrupt Bangladesh’s internal stability. These claims, though contested, reflect the broader geopolitical tensions that are being invoked amid the turmoil. The Times of India
The chaotic situation highlights the fragility of Bangladesh’s political fabric. Historically, the country has faced periods of political turbulence, but the recent spate of targeted shootings and unrest represents a particularly dangerous phase. The cycle of retribution and retaliation fuels factional mistrust, prompting public fear and uncertainty about the future of governance. Many ordinary citizens, caught in the crossfire, are worried about their safety and the ability of the state to uphold law and order. A climate of fear undermines confidence in democratic institutions, and the perception of political violence becomes self-perpetuating when justice appears slow or insufficient.
In response to the violence and growing national anxiety, various leaders have called for peace and restraint. Notably, some political voices have spoken against attacks on diplomatic missions, emphasising the importance of preserving international relations and avoiding actions that could further destabilise the country or harm Bangladesh’s global standing. Such appeals underline a recognition among some political actors that unchecked violence could have severe diplomatic repercussions, particularly with neighbouring countries. Navbharat Times
Despite these calls for calm, the path forward remains fraught. With elections on the horizon, political parties are intensifying their campaigns, often in highly charged environments that can quickly escalate to aggression or conflict. Reports of clashes during campaign events and attacks on party workers have become increasingly common. These incidents indicate that political competition in Bangladesh is extending beyond the ballot box and not into violence merely but in fiercest confrontation, making the electoral process more contentious and less predictable.
The repercussions of this political chaos extend beyond immediate injuries and deaths. They strain Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations, complicate governance, and contribute to a societal divide where political allegiance can determine personal risk. The public longing for stability and fair representation grows as daily life is disrupted by fear of violence. In such an environment, voter turnout, freedom of expression, and the legitimacy of electoral outcomes could all be adversely affected, further eroding public trust.
The situation in Bangladesh serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in political polarisation and the failure of mechanisms to effectively manage conflict. As violence continues and the election draws nearer, the international community is watching closely, concerned about the potential for broader regional instability. Within the country, citizens and civil society groups are advocating for accountability, justice, and an end to political violence to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process.
In conclusion, the current political scenario in Bangladesh is marked by a troubling escalation of violence that threatens the nation’s democratic institutions and societal harmony. The shooting of Motaleb Shikdar and the assassination of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi are symptomatic of a broader crisis that demands urgent attention from political leaders, security forces, and the wider population. Only through concerted efforts to restore law and order, address grievances, and ensure free and fair elections can Bangladesh hope to emerge from this period of turmoil and reaffirm its commitment to peace and democracy.
