In Shibchar upazila of Madaripur, BNP’s nominated candidate for Madaripur-1 constituency, Nadera Akter, led a group of party leaders and activists to visit the grave of late Awami League leader Ilias Ahmed Chowdhury, a cousin of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The visit has triggered sharp discontent and debate within the local BNP ranks.

Following the visit, many grassroots BNP activists publicly expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that Ilias Ahmed Chowdhury’s family benefited from the Awami League government, which they accuse of long-term political repression. They said visiting the grave of a family associated with such a regime contradicts BNP’s political principles and has hurt the sentiments of those who suffered under Awami League rule. The incident has also caused confusion and resentment among the public.

Local BNP leaders stated that those who fought against Awami League’s governance cannot accept such actions. Political analysts noted that this controversy could negatively affect BNP’s internal unity and public support ahead of the election. No official party statement or comment from Nadera Akter has yet been issued.