At least twelve leaders and activists of the suspended Awami League and Jubo League, including an accused in an arson and violence case, have joined the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Badarganj, Rangpur. The joining took place on the night of January 21, 2026, led by former Betgari Union Parishad chairman Mohayemin Islam Maruf, who had earlier resigned from the Awami League on December 25, 2025. The development has sparked widespread discussion and debate in local political circles.

According to Badarganj police, a case was filed on September 16, 2024, over violent incidents during an anti-discrimination student and public movement on August 4, 2024. The case, numbered 4/24, remains under investigation. Maruf, one of the accused, was previously arrested and later released on bail. Other new BNP members include Abu Taher Md. Rokibul Haque, Md. Ashraf Ali, Md. Khademul Islam, Nazrul Islam, Babu Harimol Chandra Sarker, Jahangir Alam, Mahbubur Rahman, Rakib Ahmed Robiul, Bayezid Islam, Julfikar Ali, and Aminur Rahman.

Local BNP president Chand Sarkar said the former Awami League members joined BNP inspired by the ideals of late President Ziaur Rahman. Police confirmed that the ongoing investigation and legal process will continue unaffected by the political shift.