Your urgent prayers are needed for our family in Bangladesh, with converts targeted amidst an escalating national crisis that’s led to the resignation of its Prime Minister.
A rising number of Christian converts in Bangladesh are being targeted by radical groups in the wake of political unrest that’s led to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Following weeks of anti-government protests, Sheikh Hasina left her post on Monday (5 August) and fled to India. She had been in power for more than two decades. An interim government will be formed and new elections called.
Converts fearful and in hiding
The protests broke out last month over a quota system for government jobs, leading to clashes with government forces. The unrest has since escalated around the country, resulting in the deaths of some 300 people. Government structures, including the Home
Minister’s residence and the Prime Minister’s office, have been targeted, and some protests have entered the Ganabhaban, the official residence of the Prime Minister.
“Others live in fear and hiding, seeking security for their lives.”
Open Doors local partner
Amidst the intensifying crisis, some radical groups are attacking minority communities, including believers who’ve converted from Islam. At least seven incidents have been reported across Bangladesh, and the number continues to rise. Homes have been attacked
and looted, and some house churches have been burned. Many openly professing converts are in hiding, seeking safety because of threats from local radical leaders.
“We spent a sleepless night praying to our Lord for the protection of all our believers,” shares a local partner from northern Bangladesh. “In many areas, radical groups are compiling lists of converts to attack their houses. Some homes have already been
attacked, while others live in fear and hiding, seeking security for their lives.”
This is an unprecedent crisis for Bangladesh and the path to new leadership is unclear. Given the ongoing instability and unrest, there is huge concern over the potential for yet more damage and suffering. Please keep the country and its believers in
your prayers.
please pray
- That God will intervene to bring peace and stability in Bangladesh, safety for all people, and an end to violence and vandalism
- For wisdom, guidance and courage for the interim government, and that they will lead with compassion and justice
- For the safety, comfort and strength of believers vulnerable to attack at this time.
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