The Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party alliance says it has sought to act as a responsible and constructive opposition during the BNP government’s first six months, both in parliament and on the streets. Formed after the February 12 election, the alliance entered the 13th parliament as a major opposition force with 90 members, including 13 women in reserved seats. It says it supports government measures it considers beneficial while opposing policies it views as against public interests.

Opposition members raised issues including implementation of the July Charter and referendum verdict, fuel shortages, expatriate concerns, banking problems, killings, rape, terrorism and extortion. They took part in bill debates, sometimes supported the government in voice votes, offered budget proposals and presented a shadow budget. The alliance also staged five parliamentary walkouts over disputes including speeches, constitutional reform, bills and ordinances.

After saying parliamentary interventions received limited response, the alliance began street programmes on April 4 and later announced long marches in four divisions from October 5 to 24 and a Dhaka rally on November 14. Opposition figures alleged obstruction, discrimination and attacks against their members. The alliance also faced embarrassment over allegations involving some MPs; Jamaat expelled MP Gazi Nazrul Islam over what it termed moral misconduct.