Protesters clashed with police for a second day in riots triggered by a death sentence given to an Islamic party leader for crimes linked to Bangladesh's 1971 independence war, police said.

The latest fighting broke out in northern Gainbandha and Chapainawabganj districts, killing two people. The death toll has now risen to at least 44.

At least 42 people were killed on Thursday in rioting triggered by the death sentence given to Delwar Hossain Sayedee, one of the top leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami, the country's largest Islamic party.

Mr Jamaat had called for protests after Friday prayers, and authorities responded by putting thousands of police on the streets of Dhaka.