A rare albino buffalo in Bangladesh, nicknamed 'Donald Trump' for its distinctive blond tuft, has been spared from ritual slaughter during Eid al-Adha following a last-minute government intervention, a Home Ministry official confirmed on Wednesday.
Government Intervention Saves Buffalo
The nearly 700-kilogram (1,543-pound) animal had already been sold for sacrifice when authorities stepped in, citing security concerns after an unusual surge in public interest ahead of Thursday's festival. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed ordered the buffalo be spared, the buyer refunded, and the animal relocated to the national zoo in Dhaka.
'At the last moment, the decision was taken to spare the buffalo from sacrifice due to security concerns and the unusual level of public interest,' a ministry official stated.
From Routine Purchase to National Sensation
What began as a routine Eid purchase quickly turned into a nationwide curiosity after videos of the buffalo went viral on social media. Crowds gathered at the farm where it was kept, with visitors traveling from far-flung areas to catch a glimpse of its blond fringe and calm demeanor.
Farm owner Ziauddin Mridha revealed that the nickname originated from his younger brother, who spotted a resemblance to the former U.S. president. Mridha described the animal as unusually gentle, requiring careful upkeep including frequent feeding and regular baths.
Rarity of Albino Buffaloes in Bangladesh
Albino buffaloes are extremely rare in Bangladesh, where most cattle have dark coats. This made the animal a standout during the peak Eid livestock season, though it was the unusual nickname that likely saved its life. The government's swift action ensured the buffalo's safety and highlighted the power of public sentiment in influencing policy decisions.
