The interim government has called on all citizens to act with the highest sense of responsibility and cooperation to ensure a festive, peaceful, and participatory national election.
In a statement issued on Friday following unrest near the Chief Adviser's residence, the government described the upcoming election as a historic milestone in the country's democratic journey, achieved through long struggle, sacrifice, and bloodshed.
It emphasized that for the sake of national progress, stability, and future development, the election must be conducted in a free, fair, impartial, and credible manner, warning that no deviation from this objective would be acceptable.
The government expressed confidence that a dignified and democratic election could only be achieved through collective responsibility and cooperation from all citizens.
Protests under the banner of Inqilab Mancha began on the afternoon of February 5, 2026, in front of the state guesthouse Jamuna, demanding justice for the killing of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi. Despite an existing ban on demonstrations in and around Jamuna, law enforcement agencies initially refrained from using force against the protesters, the statement added.
According to the government, the situation escalated on Friday when protesters broke through barricades, attempted to advance towards Jamuna, and at one point climbed onto a water cannon vehicle. Law enforcement personnel then used sound grenades and water cannons to bring the situation under control. The government categorically stated that no live ammunition was fired during the operation.
"For the sake of maintaining public order and ensuring the security of the Honorable Chief Adviser, all forms of assemblies, rallies, processions, mass gatherings, and demonstrations remain prohibited in and around the Jamuna area. In this context, the police acted fully within legal and procedural boundaries to disperse the protesters. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) confirmed that no lethal weapons were used during the operation" the statement added.
"According to information received from on-duty physicians at the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, a total of 23 people, including Inqilab Mancha Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber, received medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident. Doctors confirmed that none of the injured suffered gunshot wounds".
The government reiterated its firm commitment to ensuring justice for the killing of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi. It said the legal aspects of conducting an investigation under the United Nations framework are being examined in depth, and that an official letter will be sent to the relevant UN agency on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
Rejecting allegations circulating in various quarters that excessive force was used against protesters, the government said such claims are unfounded.
With the national election approaching, the government urged all parties to exercise patience, restraint, and responsibility during this sensitive political period.
It noted that nearly 180 million people are eagerly awaiting the election, while the international community is closely watching developments in Bangladesh. A significant number of foreign journalists and observers have already arrived in the country.
mirmostafiz@yahoo.com
