In Cox’s Bazar’s Pekua upazila, thirty local leaders and activists of the ruling Awami League have joined the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The group, all previously holding ward and union-level positions under the Barabakia Union Awami League, formally switched allegiance on Saturday evening after a local BNP council session. They presented flowers to Upazila BNP General Secretary Iqbal Hossain to mark their entry. The new BNP members said they were inspired by the ideals and contributions of BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, whom they described as a leader of the region’s people. Local BNP leaders, including Iqbal Hossain and Master Yunus, welcomed the new members, saying the move was voluntary and motivated by political conviction. The event was attended by leaders from various BNP-affiliated organizations, including the youth, student, and farmers’ wings, reflecting growing political activity in the area ahead of the next national election.