Police Block Ishraq Supporters’ Long March to Secretariat

Supporters of BNP leader Ishraq Hossain staged a long march towards the Secretariat in Dhaka, demanding that he be officially appointed as the Mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). However, their progress was halted by the police near the National Press Club.

March Timeline

• Start Time: The long march began at 11:30 am on Saturday, 17th May, from the front of the DSCC’s Nagar Bhaban.
• Police Intervention: As the procession advanced through Gulistan, Zero Point, and Paltan, it was stopped by the police near the Press Club area, forcing the protesters to retreat to their starting point.
• Next Steps: Protesters announced that they would remain in front of Nagar Bhaban until 2:00 pm and would declare further steps after that.

Protesters’ Statements

One protester remarked, “We were peacefully expressing the people’s demand, but the police blocked our path with barricades. We have not caused any disturbance.”

Additional Developments

• City Hall Blockade: Earlier in the day, supporters of Ishraq had already surrounded Nagar Bhaban, blocking all gates and effectively paralysing the DSCC’s headquarters. No staff or visitors could enter the premises.
• Broader Participation: Even regular DSCC staff joined the protest, amplifying the impact of the demonstration.

Core Grievances

The protesters allege that despite a favourable court ruling and the subsequent Election Commission (EC) gazette, Ishraq Hossain has not been allowed to take the mayoral oath. They argue that this refusal disrespects the people’s mandate and vowed to continue their protests until the oath is administered.

Election Dispute Background