Ctg campaign shooting: Initial probe finds BNP candidate wasn’t target of attack; govt orders full investigation

The interim government has strongly condemned the violent attack today (5 November) at an election campaign event of Ershad Ullah, the BNP nominated candidate for Chattogram-8 . 

Immediate investigation by the Chittagong Metropolitan Police (CMP) indicates that Ershad Ullah was not the target of the attack, but a stray bullet hit and injured him, said a government statement, released following the incident this evening.  

Ershad was injured and a party supporter was killed in a gun attack during a campaign event in Chattogram, police said.

The incident occurred while Ershad was campaigning in the city's Chalitatali area in Bayezid around 5:30pm ahead of the upcoming elections.

The deceased, identified as Sarwar Hossain alias Babla, 43, was described by police as a listed criminal. 

Wishing Ershad an early recovery, the government has also ordered a full probe.

"The government expresses its deep concern at this criminal act and reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting the safety and rights of all candidates and citizens participating in the democratic process," reads the statement. 

The chief adviser has directed the security forces to "spare no effort" in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators and to bring them swiftly to justice.

"Violence and intimidation have no place in our political and social life," said the government, adding that the CMP has already launched a manhunt for the attackers.

The interim government called on all political actors and their supporters to uphold calm, show restraint, and ensure that the February election takes place in an atmosphere of peace, dignity, and fairness. 

"The government will do its part by taking all necessary measures to guarantee the secure and peaceful conditions required for free, fair, credible, and festive elections across Bangladesh," the statement said.