Dismissed Army members protest in front of Press Club demanding reinstatement

A group of former army personnel, dismissed or forced to retire during the previous regime, staged a protest in front of the Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka on Sunday, demanding reinstatement and the fulfilment of four key demands.

The demonstration began in the morning and continued throughout the day.

In the afternoon, senior army officials reached the Press Club to speak with the protesters.

However, as the officials attempted to leave after the discussion, the dismissed personnel lay down in front of their vehicles, preventing their departure.

The protesters gathered in front of the Press Club from 7 am on Sunday to demand reinstatement and other benefits.

Around 11 am, they attempted to march towards Jahangir Gate but were stopped by police.

At around 2 pm, Brigadier General Aminur Rahman reached the Press Club to speak with the protesters. He held discussions with a delegation of the demonstrators inside the club.

Speaking to journalists around 4:15 pm, he said, “We’ve listened to all their demands and noted them down. These issues will be reviewed, and necessary steps will be taken.”

“We’ve asked them to submit individual applications. We’ve provided the address for submission. Each case will be considered on its merit, and we’ll do whatever is possible as quickly as we can. However, they must adhere to military law and order. We will provide as much humanitarian assistance as possible”, he further stated.

When asked if the protesters accepted the proposal, Mr Rahman confirmed that they have agreed and said they will wait.

The process will move forward gradually, he added.

Around 4:30 pm, as Aminur Rahman attempted to leave the National Press Club premises, dismissed army personnel lay down in front of his motorcade, blocking its path.

As a result, the vehicles were unable to exit the club compound.