From Discussions of Closeness with the Awami League to BNP’s Leadership: Political Questions Surrounding Bakul

Various questions are arising regarding the political past of Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Sakhawat Hossain Bakul, discussions of his relationship with the influential circles of the Awami League, and his current influence in the politics of Monohardi-Belabo.

The name of Sardar Sakhawat Hossain Bakul has long been discussed in the politics of Monohardi-Belabo in Narsingdi. Although Bakul, currently serving as the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, is an important leader of the BNP, a significant chapter of his political past revolves around his relationship with influential leaders of the Awami League. Especially, his familial and political closeness with former Industries Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun has been a long-discussed topic in local politics.
Kinship and Connection of Power
In the local political arena, the relationship between Bakul and Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun is not seen merely as a political connection. They are relatives, and they maintained close contact during the Awami League government’s tenure. According to prevalent statements in local political circles, at that time, Bakul maintained a close relationship with the power center of the Awami League and retained political and administrative influence in the area. There are allegations against him that, by using this influence, he strengthened his political and economic position in the area.
Presence of Awami League in the Familial Sphere as well
Discussions of the relationship with the Awami League extend to Bakul’s family sphere as well. His daughter’s father-in-law is former Awami League Chief Whip ASM Feroz. His elder sister’s son, Fakhrul Mannan Mukto, was the President of Chalakchar Union Awami League and Chairman of the Union Parishad. His elder brother, Moazzem Hossain Bulbul, also worked openly for the Awami League candidate in the 2024 national elections.
Allegations of Communication Even After the Fall of the Government
There are allegations in local politics that communication between Bakul and some leaders and activists of the Awami League continued even after the fall of the Awami League government. A section of the locals claims that he played a behind-the-scenes coordinating role on behalf of a few leaders who were under cases or administrative pressure. The true picture of the matter could become clearer if the cases, administrative documents, and communication details of the individuals related to this allegation are verified.
History of Conflict Within the BNP Too
There is a history of conflict within the BNP regarding Bakul’s political past. Tofazzal Hossain Master, Senior Joint Convener of Narsingdi District BNP, complained, “During the One-Eleven period, Bakul made objectionable comments about Begum Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman. He said,’ A spoiled son of a spoiled mother.’ Despite being a leader, he caused extreme damage to the party.” Besides, there are also allegations in local politics that Bakul was once a follower of BNP leader Mannan Bhuiyan and played a role in the party’s division later on.
Allegations regarding Sand, Soil, and Extortion
Alongside the discussion of political closeness with the Awami League, there are also allegations against Bakul regarding the expansion of economic influence locally. Allegations of the involvement of his close associates in the business of extracting sand and soil from rivers in various areas of Monohardi-Belabo have existed for a long time. Claims have also been made at the local level that after August 5, a business of about 50 crore takas was conducted through massive sand and soil extraction.
Similarly, there are allegations of collecting extortion money from markets, CNG stations, and brick kilns through Bakul’s followers. Some local political activists claim that a sphere of influence has been created using the political identity of the BNP.
The Questions That Are Now at the Center of Discussion
The most important question in local politics surrounding Bakul, who is currently serving as the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, centers around his political relationships and the use of power. At the center of the discussion are a few questions—
• What was his relationship with the influential circles during the Awami League government;
• How did that relationship affect his political position;
• Whether any part of that communication remains active even after the change of government; and
• How effective is his political influence currently in local administration and economic activities.
When investigating the political past and current influence of a sitting minister, it is important to view personal relationships, political positions, and allegations—these three things separately. Where there are documents, the documents will speak; where there are allegations, the statements of the concerned parties must also be included.
The true picture of Bakul’s influence in the politics of Monohardi-Belabo will ultimately become clear not by his political identity, but by his past actions, documented relationships, and practical evidence of the use of power.