Seven political parties conducting a simultaneous movement with nearly identical demands are set to hold human chains in their third phase across Dhaka tomorrow. Their demands include holding the next national election in February after giving the July Charter legal recognition through a referendum, along with reforms to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
In Dhaka, Jamaat-e-Islami’s north and south city units will form a human chain stretching from Jatrabari intersection to Gabtoli bus stand via Matsya Bhaban between 11:00am and 12:00pm. Jamaat’s central and city leaders are expected to join at Matsya Bhaban.
Islami Andolon Bangladesh will gather at Shapla Chattar in Motijheel at the same time, with its Dhaka South unit taking position from Dainik Bangla intersection to Jatrabari, while the North unit will gather from Banglamotor to Gabtoli.
Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish will hold its programme at Dainik Bangla intersection, Khelafat Majlish at Paltan intersection, Nezame Islam Party and Jatiya Ganatantrik Party (Jagpa) in front of the Jatiya Press Club, and Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon at Shahbagh intersection.
According to press releases and party sources, the seven parties’ demands are largely similar, though the number of demands varies between five and seven.
Party leaders said the campaign is aimed at building public opinion and mounting pressure on the government. However, leaders of several other parties, including the BNP, have described the initiative as a strategy to delay the election.
