An 11-party political alliance launched a long march from Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, on Saturday, warning of mass protests unless the government addresses rising prices and energy shortages.
Footage shows lines of vehicles along a highway, crowds waving Bangladesh flags and protesters marching with banners before gathering to hear speeches.
“People are generally getting restless due to the increase in gas and fuel prices, electricity shortages, load shedding, and rising commodity prices. When people’s stomachs and pockets are tight, they do not sit still, but instead jump into violent movements,” said Ashraful Alam, Assistant Media Editor at Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami.
Alam warned that public frustration could erupt into mass protests if the government failed to act.
“If the government fails to ensure these rights of the people, then a mass movement will definitely start in Bangladesh, and they (the government) will have no means to stop this movement,” he added.
Protester Akhtarul Islam backed the alliance’s demands, calling them ‘related to the people’ and accusing the government of driving up living costs.
The alliance’s seven demands include justice for those killed during the July uprising, action on electricity, fuel, gas and fertiliser shortages, and measures to curb rising prices.
The alliance has vowed to continue protesting until its demands are met.
Source: Viory
