‘March for Yunus’: Protest in Shahbagh with five-point demands

Protesters under the banner of "March for Yunus" gathered in Dhaka's Shahbagh area this afternoon to press home their five-point demands, including the appointment of Prof Muhammad Yunus as the president.

The protest programme began outside the National Museum around 3:30pm, reports our DU correspondent from the spot.

Their other demands include the formation of a national government with participation from all political parties, constitutional reforms, holding the Awami League accountable for the killings during the July Uprising, and keeping Yunus in power at least five years.

The protesters also called for the removal of controversial advisers from the interim government and the establishment of a strong national administration to oversee political transitions.

"A consensus must be reached to restructure the interim government by removing controversial advisers and forming a strong national government," said Al-Amin Atiya, one of the demonstrators.

"Since activities of Awami League and Chhatra League are restricted, a former Chhatra League leader like Chuppu cannot remain in the presidential post. We want to see Yunus as the president. If necessary, the state must expand the president's powers," he added.

The protesters also said the trial process against the Awami League is a judicial matter that will take time. "Our appeal is for five years," Atiya said.