BNP leader Ishraque Hossain, on Wednesday, declared that he would not leave the area in front of the chief adviser’s residence, Jamuna, until the demands were fulfilled.
He made the announcement at around 7:45pm in front of the chief adviser’s residence, Jamuna, while addressing his supporters who had gathered there in protest.
He also demanded the resignation of two government advisers — Mahfuj Alam and Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain.
For the past week, Ishraque’s supporters have been staging demonstrations, blocking roads in front of the Nagar Bhaban, the High Court area, and other key locations, demanding that he be declared mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) as per a court verdict.
On Wednesday, they occupied the Matsya Bhaban intersection throughout the day. In the evening, several thousand leaders and activists marched to Jamuna, where Ishraque joined them.
“We have come with a legitimate demand based on the court’s verdict,” Ishraque said.
He added: “This movement is not about installing one person as mayor. It is about ensuring a fair election process in the days ahead. The court and the Election Commission thoroughly analyzed the case and made their decision.”
He further added: “It is the responsibility of the local government to administer the oath. But the adviser is giving personal opinions, which violates our fundamental rights.”
He accused the two advisers of working for a newly formed political party despite holding government posts, and demanded their immediate resignation.
“If anyone works on behalf of a political party, they no longer have the moral right to stay in government,” Ishraque said, thanking Nahid Islam for what he termed a principled stance in contrast.
The BNP leader further alleged that several other advisers were conspiring against the BNP, interfering with the judiciary, and exerting pressure on the Election Commission.
“If this continues, there will be no public trust in either the commission or the government,” he warned.
Ishraque added: “We will not allow another autocratic regime to rise. If it does, the fate will be the same as Hasina’s.”
Ishraque said the BNP is not a fringe party that has suddenly appeared on the scene, but a political force representing millions.
Ishraque further said: “This movement is exposing the true faces of conspirators to the people. We are fighting for an inclusive environment where all political parties can coexist.”
All surrounding roads have become overcrowded with people. Jamuna has become virtually cut off from all sides including Hare Road, Matsya Bhaban intersection, Kakrail, and Circuit House Road. Vehicular movement on these roads has been suspended.
Several hundred members of law enforcement are stationed in a security perimeter in front of the Chief Adviser’s residence, remaining on high alert.
