An audio clip featuring now-suspended Sadhurpara union parishad (UP) chairman Mahmudul Alam Babu, the key accused in the murder case of journalist Golam Rabbani Nadim in Jamalpur, has been circulating widely on social media since Tuesday morning.
The 2:36-minute clip captures him saying: "It will only take a minute to take care of journalist Nadim." Claps can be heard in the background.
Apparently addressing the leaders and activists of the upazila Awami League unit present at the time, he said: "No one can dare defy the Awami League. As long as the Awami League government remains in power, as long as there are members of parliament, as long as there are committees of the upazila Awami League, no one has the authority to speak against it."
He further added: "Do not grant any post or title to those who lack power, influence or wealth. Essentially, the poor should not engage in politics. No one can tolerate the poor, not even God, so how can I?”
The attendees once again showed their support by applauding his statements. Towards the end of the audio clip, a leader can be heard urging the chairman to conclude his speech within a minute.
According to locals, Babu is infamous for his violent nature, which has instilled fear in locals, preventing them from speaking up. Some influential leaders of the upazila have supported his wrongdoings. Journalist Golam Rabbani Nadim became an obstacle in their path, leading to plans for his murder. This audio serves as evidence of their intentions, they said.
Local journalist Emdadul Haque Lalon stated: “Babu made this speech at the Bokshiganj Awami League office about two and a half months ago after Nadim published the news. Many leaders and activists, including the president and general secretary of the upazila Awami League, were present, yet no one protested his statements; instead, they applauded them. Today, their true colours are revealed, and the upazila Awami League cannot evade responsibility for Nadim's murder.”
Responding to the allegations, Bokshiganj Awami League President Shahina Begum said: "Chairman Babu has a vile temperament."
When asked about his appointment, Shahina responded: "I have been in charge of the upazila Awami League unit for six months. Those who were in power for 20 years before me can provide more insight."
Regarding rumours of her involvement in the incident, she said: "I am not involved in this incident; I am being framed."
Bakshiganj police station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mohammad Sohel Rana confirmed hearing the audio clip on three social media platforms. However, he was previously unaware of its existence. So far, 13 suspects have been arrested in connection with Nadim's murder, while Chairman Babu remains in custody for five days.
Golam Rabbani Nadim, 43, came under attack by some 14-15 people on June 14 on his way home after work in Bokshiganj.
Critically injured in the attack, Nadim was admitted to Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, where he passed away the next day.
Shadurpara Upazila Parishad Chairman Mahmudul Alam Babu, the key accused in a case filed over the killing, has since been arrested and suspended from both his party, the Awami League, and as chairman.
