Dhaka, 21 May (H.S.): The BNP and its affiliated organizations organized a demonstration on Wednesday outside Nagar Bhaban, the Dhaka South City Corporation headquarters, blocking the Matsya Bhaban intersection. This protest was in response to the authorities’ failure to swear in Ishraque Hossain as mayor following a deadline given by leaders. Many BNP activists also gathered at the Kakrail intersection near the chief adviser’s residence, where police had preemptively blocked access.

Another group under the Bangladesh Professionals’ Alliance banner rallied at the National Press Club. Mashiur Rahman, a former secretary coordinating the protests, had set a 10 am deadline for the interim government to respond, threatening further action if their demands weren’t met. He emphasized that they might escalate their protests, potentially bringing Dhaka to a standstill. The protests intensified as DSCC employee unions expressed solidarity, hinting at service disruptions if their demands remained unmet. Amid the protests, demonstrators began gathering outside Nagar Bhaban under the Dhakabashi banner, leading to a complete halt in traffic around the Matsya Bhaban area.

Mohammad Hossain, traveling from Kamrangirchar, voiced frustration over the delay in handing over mayoral duties to Ishraque, citing a court ruling. Meanwhile, city corporation employees joined the demonstration outside Nagar Bhaban, which remained padlocked. Consequently, civic services ground to a halt, with officials reportedly on informal leave. Additionally, the Local Government Division has not resumed operations since protests began on May 14, when Ishraque’s appointment was initially demanded.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar