Ishraque supporters lay siege to Nagar Bhaban for 5th Day

Protesting supporters of BNP leader Ishraq Hossain besieged the 'Nagar Bhaban' in the city for the fifth day on Monday demanding that he is given the mayoral responsibilities of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).

The protesters earlier sealed the Nagar Bhaban, the headquarters of DSCC, disrupting work and all services provided there.

Ishraque loyalists, including DSCC officers and employees, locked the main gate and entrances of various departments of the corporation, effectively halting all public services.

Citizens arriving at the building for services were forced to return without receiving assistance. Protesters stationed in front of Nagar Bhaban claimed that no steps had yet been taken to facilitate Ishraq's oath-taking as mayor.

They vowed to continue their movement until he is officially installed as mayor.

They further warned of launching even more stringent programmes if their demand is not met. Meanwhile, Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain has said there are several legal issues and tenure-related complications concerning Ishraque Hossain's oath-taking as the Dhaka South City Corporation mayor.

"No decision can be made until these complications are resolved," Asif told reporters following the signing of a memorandum of understanding with UNFPA at the National Sports Council on Monday afternoon.

Urging Ishraque's supporters -- who have been holding protests in front of DSCC headquarters Nagar Bhaban for the last few days -- to remain patient for the sake of easing public suffering, the Adviser said they must consider the inconvenience faced by city residents.

Regarding the Bangladesh cricket team's tour of Pakistan, the Adviser said discussions are underway with the Pakistan embassy to ensure that no matches are held in stadiums near border areas and to guarantee maximum security.