Chattogram remained at the centre of Bangladesh’s political, economic, and security discourse in 2025. From organised crime and political violence to student movements and bold urban plans, the year exposed both the city’s vulnerabilities and its influence on national affairs.
1. Boro Sazzad and the Criminal Underworld
Fugitive crime boss Sazzad Ali, known as “Boro Sazzad,” continued to cast a long shadow over Chattogram despite operating from abroad. Law enforcement repeatedly stated that his network remained active in extortion, contract control, and turf wars, particularly in port-linked and industrial zones.
His continued relevance turned “Sazzad Bahini” into a symbol of the persistence of organised crime in the city. Throughout 2025, his name dominated police briefings and public debates on security, reflecting deep-rooted challenges in dismantling criminal syndicates.
2. Chattogram Port
Chattogram Port was one of the most influential issues of the year as labour unrest, protests, tariff hikes, and reform plans dominated headlines. Proposals to hand over key terminals to foreign operators triggered resistance from workers and political groups.
As Bangladesh’s main trade gateway, even brief disruptions had nationwide consequences. The port became a political battleground where economic reform, sovereignty, and labour rights collided.
3. Mayor and BNP Leader Shahadat Hossain
Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain emerged as a central political figure, often confronting the central administration while asserting local authority. His leadership elevated city governance into a key political arena.
A major controversy erupted when he warned Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hussain against entering Chattogram without clarifying remarks about corrupt mayors. Alongside confrontation, Shahadat promoted development plans, including a proposed monorail to address traffic congestion.
4. Shahjahan Chowdhury
Jamaat-e-Islami leader and former MP Shahjahan Chowdhury remained influential but controversial. His remarks suggesting that the administration should act “at our command” during elections went viral nationwide.
The comments prompted Jamaat to issue a show-cause notice, exposing internal tensions while reaffirming Jamaat’s continued political presence in Chattogram.
5. Arif Moinuddin (National Citizen Party)
Arif Moinuddin rose as a prominent youth leader after his role in the July 2024 Anti-Discrimination Movement. In 2025, he joined the National Citizen Party and became a key organiser in Chattogram.
He gained national attention after leading the takeover of the banned Awami League’s Chattogram North office. The incident symbolised the rise of confrontational, youth-led politics in the city.
6. Ibrahim Hossain Rony
Ibrahim Hossain Rony became the most dominant student leader in Chattogram in 2025, following his role in the July 2024 uprising. He elected as Vice President of the Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (CUCSU).
By year’s end, he was appointed President of Islami Chhatra Shibir’s Chittagong University branch, highlighting student politics as a pipeline for broader political leadership.
7. Raozan: Political Violence
Raozan emerged as one of Chattogram’s most violent areas, marked by repeated shootings and killings driven largely by political rivalries. Over 12 months, at least 13 murders were reported, most linked to politics.
The shooting of multiple BNP leaders during factional clashes and the killing of Jubo Dal leader Mohammad Selim in front of his family underscored a breakdown of political discipline and law enforcement.
8. Sacked Islami Bank Officers
The dismissal of numerous Islami Bank officers in Chattogram sparked protests and legal battles throughout the year. The issue raised concerns about labour rights and political influence in banking.
As a financial hub, Chattogram became the focal point of a controversy that resonated nationwide.
9. Ershad Ullah
BNP candidate Ershad Ullah drew attention after being injured in a shooting incident. The attack reignited debates on political violence and candidate security.
The incident symbolised the risks facing political actors in Chattogram during a volatile year.
10. Hasib Aziz (CMP Commissioner)
CMP Commissioner Hasib Aziz dominated security discourse with his aggressive stance against criminal gangs. His directives on using SMGs and expanding checkpoints marked a shift toward hardline policing.
Supporters praised his resolve, while critics raised civil liberty concerns. Throughout 2025, Hasib Aziz remained central to debates on law enforcement in Chattogram.
In 2025, Chattogram stood at the intersection of crime, politics, protest, and reform. These ten topics and personalities shaped the city’s direction, reinforcing its role as one of Bangladesh’s most influential and volatile urban centres.
ctgpost/mhd
