The verdict in the crimes against humanity case against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina—removed from power during the student-led and public uprising—is set to be announced today. Ahead of the ruling, concerns have grown about possible acts of sabotage. Anti-fascist political groups say they will remain active on the streets to prevent any disorder they believe could be caused by the now-banned Awami League. The BNP has also placed its leaders and activists on alert, stating that they will respond immediately if public safety is threatened anywhere in the country.

Leaders of the anti-fascist alliance claim that the Awami League undermined democracy during the last 17 years, pointing to allegations of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and widespread violence. They accuse the former government of committing a major atrocity in July 2024. According to them, Sheikh Hasina fled abroad after losing power during the mass uprising, yet episodes of unrest have continued. They mention arson attacks and violence in Dhaka and other regions on November 13, saying that similar incidents could occur again today. For this reason, they intend to maintain a vigilant presence on the streets.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, “The verdict on the genocide carried out under the fascist regime of Hasina is coming. This has created a deep sense of anxiety and uncertainty across the country. A certain group is trying to drag Bangladesh back into chaos. We must stand firm. The opportunity created through the student-led uprising must not be wasted. No one should be allowed to obstruct the country’s democratic transition.” Senior BNP leaders added that their activists nationwide will remain alert and will resist any untoward situation.

Speaking at a joint press briefing of the eight-party alliance, Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Porwar said, “Preventing sabotage is primarily the responsibility of the government. Still, our activists will be present on the streets as before. They will help safeguard key government facilities and religious institutions. Fascism will not be allowed to rise again.”

Saiful Haque of Ganatantra Mancha and General Secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party noted, “This is first and foremost a government responsibility. If there is any risk of sabotage, authorities and law enforcement should act. Even so, political groups will maintain a level of readiness. We will remain on standby so that public safety is not compromised.”

Mojibur Rahman Monju, Chairman of the Amar Bangladesh (AB) Party, said, “We do not see a major reason to take to the streets over this matter, because it is essentially a legal process. But if the Awami League attempts to politicize it, we may also be forced to respond politically. Should anyone attempt sabotage or irresponsible politics, we will play our part in shaping public opinion. We will not allow anyone to disrupt the judicial process.”

Mushfiq-us-Saleheen, Joint Member Secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP), added that their activists will also remain active to prevent any potential violence from pro-fascist elements.

Syed Ehsanul Huda, Coordinator of the 12-Party Alliance and Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Team, said, “We will stay active in our respective areas. We will remain cautious so that no one can create chaos or sabotage. We will help protect people and property from arson.”

Rashed Khan, General Secretary of the Gono Odhikar Parishad, said, “Organizational activities of the Awami League are banned. They have no scope to take to the streets. If they attempt to, the public will resist them. We will also remain present on the streets to ensure they cannot carry out any activities.”