Tarique Rahman has stated that pro-democracy parties in Bangladesh, including the BNP, have consistently called for the government to present a clear roadmap for its action plan. However, the government has failed to respond adequately. Instead of announcing a specific date for the next general election, the administration has entangled the nation in a complex debate of “minor vs major reforms.” Rahman noted that signs of unrest are now visible both inside and outside the government, despite being in power for just 10 months. He reaffirmed that democratic parties remain committed to supporting an interim government to ensure elections that are transparent and accountable to the people. He emphasized that now is the time to institutionalize democracy by developing and implementing effective processes and frameworks.

BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi stated that reforms are not a one-time event but an ongoing process. “The nation has the right to know when these reforms will be completed and when the Election Commission will announce the schedule,” he said. Rizvi criticized the current economic situation, pointing to the fragile stock market and skyrocketing prices of essentials, including spices ahead of Eid-ul-Adha. “Only an elected government can ensure accountability,” he argued. “The people should be free to choose their representatives and decide who holds power. That right has been taken away—and there’s no clear answer as to why it hasn’t been restored.”

Rashed Khan, a leader of the Gono Odhikar Parishad, stated that appointing Ishraq Hossain as mayor would bring Dhaka a competent and people-friendly leader. In a statement, he criticized the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) for appointing their own people as administrators in Dhaka North and attempting to do the same in the South. However, the court ruled in Ishraq’s favor following the mass uprising. Despite this, the Ministry of Local Government appears unwilling to let a BNP leader like Ishraq assume office, fearing a shift of power away from the NCP. “Ishraq Hossain is a humble, public-oriented figure,” Khan said. “It is his rightful place.”

Ishraq Hossain has called on the Ministry of Local Government to arrange his swearing-in as the elected mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). Speaking at a press conference, he set a one-month deadline for the ministry to take necessary action. Meanwhile, his supporters have locked all the gates of the DSCC headquarters, Nagar Bhaban, in protest. Today marks the third consecutive day of demonstrations under the banner Dhakabashi, demanding that Ishraq be allowed to assume office.

Over 200 members of the Tekarhat Fish Traders Association, including a banned Awami League leader and a former councillor, officially joined the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) in Madaripur’s Rajoir upazila. The event highlighted growing discontent with the ruling party and support for NCP’s anti-corruption stance. Leaders accused both the ruling and opposition parties of extortion and oppression. The new members pledged to build a strong base for NCP in the region and push for political reform.

JSD leader Tania Rob expressed concern over recent proposals involving a humanitarian corridor with Myanmar and the management of Chattogram Port, which have sparked public anxiety.
She emphasized that any agreement must prioritize national interest and be taken with public consensus.
“The public must be clearly informed about the rationale and benefits of these deals. Transparency is crucial,” she said.
She also stressed that constitutional and political reforms are vital to ensure that the fascist regime overthrown through public uprising does not return in any form.
“A free, fair, and inclusive election is essential to restore the country’s democratic path,” she concluded.

Rashed Pradhan, Vice President of JAGPA, stated that in a Bangladesh free from the fascist rule of Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League, Indian hegemony will not be tolerated.
He noted that just as people fought for democracy during the July uprising, the same spirit must now defend the country’s independence and sovereignty.
He condemned the recent “push-ins” by Indian forces at the border, forcibly sending hundreds of displaced Rohingyas into Bangladesh, labeling it a direct threat to national sovereignty.
Pradhan called on the government to take a strong stance, even urging citizen patrols alongside border forces to stop further incursions.

BNP leader Zainul Abdin Farroque urged the government to initiate elections before incurring the fury of the people. “Instead of reforming the public, Sheikh Hasina herself should undergo reform,” he said.
He emphasized that BNP has shown patience and adhered to Tarique Rahman’s guidance over the past 17 years while demanding democratic elections.
Referring to Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Farroque said, “We hold great hope in you. It’s been nine months since the regime assumed power, yet now the talk of 'corridors' arises. The real reform — already outlined by Tarique Rahman — remains ignored.”
He concluded by saying, “We are proud of you. Don’t shatter that pride. Just as rivers change course after hitting rocks, let us avoid crashing into public rage and move towards elections.”

Supporters of Ishraque Hossain, who have been protesting for three consecutive days demanding that he be formally handed over mayoral responsibilities, declared Advisor Asif Mahmud persona non grata at Dhaka South City Corporation’s (DSCC) Nagar Bhaban.
Advisor Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, who carries out official duties under the Ministry of Local Government at Nagar Bhaban, did not report to the office on the day due to the ongoing demonstrations by Ishraque’s supporters.

BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury stated that, after a long time, the party now has an opportunity to recruit new members — a chance that must be utilized. He emphasized that joining the BNP, the largest political party in the country, is a matter of pride. However, he cautioned that socially unacceptable individuals, such as extortionists, criminals, and corrupt figures, must not be allowed into the party.
He further stated that current members of the Awami League should not be recruited into BNP. However, those who were once AL supporters but did not obstruct BNP activities or commit any acts of oppression — and even supported BNP discreetly — may be considered for membership. “But no one should be inducted into the party in secret,” he warned.

Former Narayanganj mayor Selina Hayat Ivy has been shown arrested in two additional cases, including one related to a killing during the July public uprising. After a court hearing in Narayanganj, which Ivy attended virtually from Gazipur's Kashimpur Jail, the investigating officer submitted a petition for her formal arrest in these cases. With this, she has now been shown arrested in three out of the five cases filed against her.

Supporters of Ishraq Hossain staged demonstrations for the third consecutive day, demanding that he be officially handed the responsibilities of Mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). The protest disrupted traffic in the area.

Though protesters initially planned to march from Nagar Bhaban to the Secretariat, police intervention halted their advance. They later regrouped outside the National Press Club. Earlier in the day, under the banner "Dhakabashi," thousands of supporters gathered in front of Nagar Bhaban, chanting slogans and blocking the main gate in protest of the delay in Ishraq's oath-taking ceremony.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman expressed concern over the verdict in the Asiya rape and murder case, which concluded in just two months. “Despite the quick trial, the victim’s family has expressed dissatisfaction and plans to appeal to the higher court. This deserves serious attention. Justice must prevail,” he said.

He added, “The people of Bangladesh are waiting to see the perpetrators punished. A swift and exemplary punishment would serve as a strong deterrent for others.” Shafiqur Rahman also called for speedy justice in the murder of Montu Chandra Das, whose daughter was a victim of sexual assault in Barguna.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) clarified that Ishtiaq Hossain threw a water bottle that struck an adviser on the head. He was taken into DB custody around 9 PM Thursday from his mess in Alubazar. His housemates were informed immediately. "He was questioned regarding the incident and other matters," the statement reads. "His age, profession, legal rights, and human rights were duly respected during the process." On Friday afternoon, Ishtiaq expressed remorse and signed a written statement pledging not to repeat such actions. He was then handed over to his family.

Political leader Zonayed Saki emphasized the need for inclusive discussions when making decisions about national and international interests, including strategic assets like the Chittagong Port. He called for strengthening national unity to resist foreign interference. Saki cited Maulana Bhasani as a symbol of environmental and riverine justice, emphasizing that water resources belong to all living beings, not just humans. He added that token anti-India rhetoric won't protect national interests—if bilateral talks with India fail, disputes must be raised on international platforms.