Seven political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, are set to hold simultaneous demonstrations in Dhaka today (Thursday), demanding implementation of the “July Charter” and national elections under its framework, among other issues.
The parties plan to hold brief rallies around the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, the National Press Club and nearby areas before staging marches from late afternoon until evening. Similar demonstrations are planned for divisional cities on Friday and at district and upazila levels on 26 September.
The participating parties are Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, Khelafat Majlish, Nezame Islam Party, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon and the National Democratic Party (JAGPA). Though their manifestos differ slightly—five, six or seven demands—their core demands are broadly aligned. These include full implementation of the July Charter and holding the national election accordingly, introduction of a proportional representation system in parliament and ensuring a level playing field for all political forces in elections.
Visible accountability for the alleged atrocities, killings and corruption of the previous “fascist” government and banning the activities of the Jatiya Party and the 14-party alliance.
Schedules of the Demonstrations
Jamaat-e-Islami will hold a rally at 4:30 pm in front of the south gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, to be addressed by party leaders including Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher and Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar. The march may proceed through Purana Paltan, the National Press Club, past Matsya Bhaban to Shahbagh.
Islami Andolan Bangladesh will march after the Zuhr prayers at the mosque’s northern courtyard under the leadership of senior Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Muhammad Faizul Karim.
Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, led by Maulana Mamunul Haque, will march after Asr prayers from the mosque’s north gate. The party also plans a rally at 3:00 pm in front of the National Press Club, to be addressed by its Secretary General Ahmad Abdul Kader.
Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon will join at the same time and place.
Nezame Islam Party will hold a protest at 4:00 pm in front of the National Press Club.
National Democratic Party (JAGPA) will march at 4:30 pm in front of the water tank at Bijoynagar.
Police and city residents anticipate severe traffic congestion in central Dhaka due to the overlapping rallies. Organizers said they scheduled the events for the afternoon to avoid clashing with morning BCS exams.
