Home minister’s intervention saves ‘Donald Trump’ from Eid sacrifice

The widely publicised albino buffalo known as “Donald Trump”, which had been sold for sacrifice ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, is being returned to its farm in Narayanganj following the intervention of Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday (27 May), Salahuddin said the animal had been taken back from its buyer in Keraniganj amid concerns that large crowds gathering to see the buffalo could lead to disorder.

“The buyer has been refunded, and the buffalo has been returned to the farm. For the time being, it will remain there and continue to be reared,” he said.

The rare albino buffalo gained nationwide attention because of its distinctive appearance, with its hair and eyes reportedly resembling those of US President Donald Trump. The animal was affectionately named “Trump” by the younger brother of Ziauddin Mridha, owner of Rabeya Agro Farm in Paikpara, Narayanganj.

The unusual name and rare appearance quickly made the buffalo a social media sensation.

According to the farm owner, the 700-kilogram buffalo had been sold to a buyer named Samir from the Jinjira area of Dhaka at a rate of Tk550 per kilogram before it achieved viral fame.

As news of the animal spread, visitors flocked to the farm to see it. Men, women and children travelled from various parts of the country, including distant districts such as Barishal and Cumilla. Many expressed disappointment at being unable to purchase the buffalo.

The buffalo also attracted international media attention, featuring in reports by major global news organisations, including AFP and Reuters.

Authorities have not indicated whether the buffalo will be offered for sale again in the future. For now, it will remain at the Narayanganj farm under the care of its owners.