People ready to march to Dhaka if called, says Shafiqur Rahman

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman MP has vowed to continue the ongoing movement until the mandate of the February 12 referendum is fully implemented, warning that people are ready to march towards Dhaka if called upon.

Addressing a rally organised by the 11-party alliance at Shibbari Intersection in Khulna on Saturday, he said continuous programmes would be announced to press home the alliance's seven-point demand.

The opposition leader said the demands represent the interests of all citizens, including ensuring trials for the July genocide and killings over the past 15 and a half years, curbing money laundering, stopping extortion and securing fertiliser for farmers.

Criticising the government, Dr Shafiqur questioned why the referendum verdict was being sidelined despite a parliamentary majority. He also raised concerns over rising utility bills and corruption.

Khulna City Jamaat Ameer Muhammad Mahfuzur Rahman presided over the rally, while Khulna-2 MP Advocate Sheikh Jahangir Hossain Helal conducted it.

The long march, involving more than 1,000 vehicles, began from Dhaka towards Khulna and Kushtia earlier in the day.