Protests continue for sixth day demanding Ishraq Hossain’s assumption of mayoral office

Supporters of BNP leader Ishraq Hossain have continued their sit-in protest for the sixth consecutive day in front of Dhaka South City Corporation’s (DSCC) headquarters, demanding that he be allowed to assume his role as mayor following a court verdict and the publication of the Election Commission's official gazette.

The protestors, under the banner Dhakabashi (People of Dhaka), locked the main gate of Nagar Bhaban again on Monday morning. They allege that Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan is obstructing Ishraq Hossain from taking the oath, despite the legal and administrative formalities being completed.

In a Facebook post published Monday afternoon, Ishraq Hossain claimed that certain individuals within the interim government are acting with political bias. He accused them of working to prevent his assumption of office, suggesting this interference reflects a broader agenda to influence the upcoming national elections.

“The role these individuals are playing in trying to block a BNP mayor in Dhaka makes it crystal clear what role they intend to play in the national election,” he wrote. “Those who have abandoned neutrality and are working as representatives of a particular party must resign immediately.”

Hossain further alleged that these individuals, like Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, have intimidated judges, challenged the authority of the Election Commission, interfered with the judiciary, and conspired with pro-government bureaucrats. “One day, their names and identities will be revealed,” he warned.

Addressing the personal attacks he has faced, Hossain stated, “I have endured harsh criticism and insults, even involving my parents, in silence—because it is essential to expose these people for the sake of democracy and the people’s voting rights.”

In a defiant closing to his statement, he added, “The fight is not over. Either we will achieve our demands, or we will rest beneath the ground at the place Allah has destined. There will be no compromise on democracy and the people’s right to vote.”

The DSCC has yet to respond officially to the protests or the allegations raised by Ishraq Hossain.