A political rift has emerged in Panchhari upazila of Khagrachhari after a Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) joining event sparked allegations of covert rehabilitation of Awami League (AL) leaders. The December 2 program, attended by former MP and district BNP president Abdul Wadud Bhuiyan, reportedly saw over a hundred activists from various parties join the BNP. However, local BNP members claim that around 70 of the new entrants were active or former AL leaders, including union-level officeholders and youth front members. Veteran BNP activists, who endured years of repression, expressed anger, saying the inclusion of former rivals undermines their sacrifices. Allegations also surfaced that financial transactions influenced the recruitment process. Analysts warn that such cross-party realignments could destabilize local politics ahead of the 13th national election. The situation has been further complicated by claims that local Jamaat-e-Islami units are sheltering former AL activists. Residents have questioned the administration’s inaction amid the nationwide “Devil Hunt” anti-crime campaign, raising concerns about governance and political accountability in the region.