Seven parties stage joint protest in Dhaka today

On Thursday, seven political groups, including Jamaat-e-Islami, are set to march in the capital with a series of demands, such as holding the next national election based on the July framework.

Before the marches, the parties plan to hold brief rallies near Baitul Mukarram, the National Press Club, and nearby areas. The programs are expected to run from the afternoon until evening.

With nearly identical agendas, the seven groups have announced a three-day program:

• Day 1 (Thursday): Demonstrations in Dhaka

• Day 2 (Friday): Protests in divisional cities

• Day 3 (26 September): Rallies in all districts and upazilas

The groups involved are: Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis (Mamunul Haque-led faction), Khelafat Majlis, Nezam-e-Islam Party, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon, and the Jatiya Ganatantrik Party (Jagpa).

Though the number of demands varies (5, 6, or 7 points), their main agenda is almost the same:

• Implementation of the July charter and elections based on it

• Introduction of proportional representation in parliament (bicameral or upper house, depending on the party)

• A level playing field to ensure free and credible elections

• Accountability for the alleged repression, killings, and corruption of the previous government

• Banning activities of the Jatiya Party and the 14-party alliance

Party-wise schedule today

Jamaat-e-Islami – 4:30 PM
The party will rally at the south gate of Baitul Mukarram Mosque before marching through Paltan, the Press Club, and Matsya Bhaban, potentially ending at Shahbagh. Senior leaders including Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher and Secretary General Mia Ghulam Parwar will address the gathering.

Islami Andolon Bangladesh – after Zuhr prayers
The group will demonstrate at the north premises of Baitul Mukarram Mosque, led by senior Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Muhammad Faizul Karim.

Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis – after Asr prayers
The faction led by Maulana Mamunul Haque will march from the mosque’s north gate. Party Secretary General Maulana Jalaluddin Ahmed has urged public participation.

Khelafat Majlis – 3 PM
Another faction will hold a protest in front of the National Press Club, with Secretary General Ahmad Abdul Qader addressing the rally.

Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon – same time, same place
The group will also join demonstrations near the Press Club.

Nezam-e-Islam Party – 4 PM
This group will stage its program in the same area later in the afternoon.

Jatiya Ganatantrik Party (Jagpa) – 4:30 PM
Jagpa will hold a rally near the water tank in Bijoynagar.

Possible impact

Officials and observers warn that simultaneous demonstrations by seven parties in central Dhaka may lead to heavy traffic congestion and cause difficulties for city residents. The parties have scheduled their protests in the afternoon to avoid clashing with the BCS exams taking place in the morning.