BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has warned that the ongoing movement will take a different turn if engineer Ishraq Hossain is not sworn in as mayor within today or tomorrow.

He issued the warning while speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of BNP’s new member recruitment and renewal programme for Sylhet Division. 

The event was held on Monday (May 19) at the Sylhet District Shilpakala Academy in Baluchar, Sylhet city.

Salahuddin said protestors have already surrounded the streets and Nagar Bhaban in Dhaka, demanding that Ishraq Hossain be given responsibility as Mayor of Dhaka South City, as per the court’s verdict. They have issued an ultimatum to the Local Government Adviser.

“We are always ready to support this government if it works lawfully. But that does not mean you will do whatever you want, and we will accept it,” he said. 

He urged the authorities to arrange Ishraq’s oath-taking by tonight if possible, warning that a larger movement may emerge from the current protests in Dhaka.

Salahuddin also advised BNP leaders and activists to stay alert so that no supporters of the ruling Awami League, which he described as holding fascist ideals, can become BNP members.

MSK/