Protesters have blocked the Shahbagh intersection in the capital this afternoon (May 9), calling for a ban on the Awami League.
The protest followed an earlier announcement by Hasnat Abdullah, chief organiser of the National Citizen Party’s (NCP) southern region, who declared a blockade in support of the demand.
Around 4:40 pm, protesters marched from Minto Road toward Shahbagh and staged a sit-in at the intersection.
From the stage of the anti-Awami League movement, Hasnat Abdullah said, "Our demands have not reached the ears of the Interim Government. That’s why we are moving from the rally site to block Shahbagh. We will remain there until our demands are met."
He said, "Even if you bring together 100 Pharaohs, you won’t get one Hasina. On what grounds is the Awami League considered a political party? We are hearing that the Chief Adviser is apparently trying to sit with political parties. Reportedly, he plans to decide on banning the Awami League after holding discussions with them."
The NCP leader further said, “The Awami League is in no way a political party. In 1974, the Awami League formed BAKSAL and replaced democracy with a mafia system in the country.
Due to the Awami League’s looting, around 1.5 million people died of starvation during the famine. The hands of the Awami League are stained with the blood of the people of this country. With India’s support, the Awami League killed patriotic army officers.”
Bd-Pratidin English/ARK
