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Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Bangladesh's opposition leader, Shafiqur Rahman, has threatened a new anti-government movement if demands are not met.
- Rahman accused the government of fascism and ignoring referendum results, urging action before the next rally in Sylhet.
- The opposition is prepared to escalate programs, including potential hartals or blockades, and has demanded infrastructure development for the neglected southern region.
Shafiqur Rahman, the leader of Bangladesh's Jamaat-e-Islami party and a prominent opposition figure, has issued a stark warning of a renewed anti-government movement. He threatened to topple the current government if it fails to address the opposition's demands, speaking at a rally in Barishal.
Rahman accused the administration of embracing fascism and disregarding the outcome of a referendum, despite having campaigned on favorable terms prior to the election. He urged the government to act decisively before the opposition alliance's next gathering in Sylhet on July 25, or face a "grand rally in Dhaka." The opposition leader also highlighted the long-standing neglect of the Barishal region, demanding the construction of a bridge connecting Bhola to the mainland and the expansion of railway networks to the country's southern areas.
If you deceive the people, you must be prepared to face the consequences. You are walking the path of fascism.
Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and Opposition Chief Whip, echoed Rahman's sentiments, affirming the opposition's readiness to intensify its actions. "We have not yet announced tougher programmes such as hartals or blockades. But we are ready to do so at any time if necessary," Islam stated, signaling a potential escalation of protests.
The opposition's stance indicates a significant challenge to the government, with threats of widespread disruption if their demands, including infrastructure development and political concessions, are not addressed. The upcoming rallies in Sylhet and the potential for a major demonstration in Dhaka signal a critical juncture in Bangladesh's political landscape.
We have not yet announced tougher programmes such as hartals or blockades. But we are ready to do so at any time if necessary.
Originally published by Daily Star. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.