Supporters of BNP leader Ishraq Hossain have continued their ongoing protest, demanding that he be declared the Mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).
On Tuesday, May 20, the protest entered its sixth day as demonstrators once again gathered in front of the Nagar Bhaban (City Corporation building) for a sit-in that began at 10 AM and is set to continue until 5 PM.
Organized under the banner of "Dhakabashi" (Citizens of Dhaka), the demonstration has seen participation from Ishraq’s supporters, former ward councilors affiliated with BNP, as well as leaders and activists from BNP’s affiliated organizations including Jubo Dal, Mohila Dal, Chhatra Dal, and Sramik Dal.
Since the protest began, the main gate of the Nagar Bhaban has remained locked, with all offices and lifts inside shut down. All DSCC services have been suspended, forcing many service-seekers who traveled from distant areas to return empty-handed.
Hundreds of protesters have taken position on the main road in front of the city building, chanting slogans loudly and continuously.
Protesters have also called for the resignation of advisor Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan. They have vowed to escalate the movement if Ishraq is not officially declared mayor.
Speaking to the press, Abul Hashem Anis, General Secretary of BNP’s Ward 52 unit in Dhaka, said, “Ishraq Bhai is the people`s mayor. We will not return home until he is declared the mayor. Under the leadership of our ward president Rabiul Islam Dipu Bhai, around a hundred of our members have joined the sit-in since day one. We will stay in the streets until our demand is met.”
As early as 9 AM on Tuesday, thousands of Ishraq’s supporters gathered in front of Nagar Bhaban with placards and banners. Their chants included: “Make Ishraq the Mayor,” “Ishraq, don’t be afraid, the people of Dhaka are with you,” “No more delays in the oath-taking,” and “Dhakabashi’s Action, Direct Action.”
The ongoing protest has caused severe traffic congestion around Gulistan, Fulbaria, and Bongo Market areas, leaving many office-goers, CNG and rickshaw drivers, and pedestrians in distress.
