BNP leader Engineer Ishraque Hossain has warned that protests may escalate to the streets if authorities retaliate against supporters involved in ongoing demonstrations. His remarks come after five of his allies were injured during a reported attack inside the Nagar Bhaban on Tuesday.
The clash occurred during a demonstration demanding Ishraque’s swearing-in as mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation. Supporters claim he was elected but never officially allowed to take office.
At a press conference on Wednesday at the National Press Club, Ishraque accused the government of intentionally violating laws and the constitution by withholding his oath. He also alleged that recent violence was carried out by individuals close to Local Government adviser Asif Mahmud.
“This wasn’t random,” he said. “These attackers were working under those with known political ties and long-standing grievances.”
Political tension over swearing-in delay
Ishraque said the refusal to let him assume office benefits a newly formed political party favored by the ruling government. According to him, any disruption to that plan could also affect financial support intended for that group.
“They will not allow me to take charge,” he said. “They want that money and influence redirected elsewhere.”
He called on Asif Mahmud to publicly apologize for past remarks and urged officials not to target civil servants participating in the protest movement.
Read Also: Ishraque Hossain Claims Legal Right to Mayor’s Office, Urges End to Delay
Escalation threats and warning to government
Speaking to reporters, Ishraque claimed some attackers identified themselves with the BNP but hold no official position in the party. He dismissed them as corrupt insiders working to discredit the movement.
“If the Local Government Ministry takes revenge against honest officers or staff, this protest won’t stay inside Nagar Bhaban,” he warned. “It will spill onto the streets.”
His comments reflect growing frustration among BNP members over what they see as systemic efforts to suppress their political role in city governance. Ishraque’s legal battle and protest actions continue to draw national attention.
