Dhaka, Jun 03 (V7N) – Residents of Dhaka South City continued their sit-in protest for the 18th consecutive day on Tuesday (June 3) in front of City Hall, demanding the immediate swearing-in of BNP leader Ishraq Hossain as mayor.

Civic services provided by the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) have remained suspended for the past 14 days, creating a growing crisis for residents.

Protesters say Ishraq’s swearing-in is being deliberately delayed despite a clear court verdict and a gazette notification by the Election Commission confirming his victory. They accuse the Local Government Ministry of creating procedural barriers to prevent Ishraq from officially assuming office.

“There is no justification for this delay. The people of this city are suffering without a city father. If this situation continues, Dhaka South will be paralyzed,” said one protester at the scene.

Residents further allege that a political conspiracy is preventing Ishraq from taking the oath of office, despite receiving legal and electoral confirmation of his mayorship.

The matter is currently entangled in legal proceedings, with the Local Government Division reportedly raising objections that have stalled the official swearing-in.

“The Election Commission has done its duty. The court has spoken. Why is the ministry still blocking the oath?” asked a protest leader.

The prolonged disruption has led to accumulated waste, stalled construction permits, and delayed public services, exacerbating daily challenges for Dhaka South residents.

As of now, neither the government nor the ministry has issued a public explanation for the continued delay in the oath-taking ceremony.

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