Members of a Jamaat‑e-Islami-backed customer forum have demanded the resignation of Bangladesh Bank Governor Md Mostaqqur Rahman.
The demand came during a human chain formed by “Islami Bank Sochetan Grahok Forum (Conscious Customer Forum)” in front of Islami Bank’s head office in the capital’s Motijheel on Monday morning.
The protesters also called for the resignation of Islami Bank’s newly appointed chairman Khurshid Alam. They also condemned police action at the demonstration and announced a five‑point set of demands, including the governor’s resignation.
Other demands include reinstatement of managing director Omar Faruk, who was sent on compulsory leave, resignation of Bangladesh Bank governor, confiscation and sale of S Alam’s shares, and return of bank control to those who held it before S Alam Group’s takeover.
Just before the Eid-ul-Adha holidays, Khurshid, a former deputy governor of Bangladesh Bank, was appointed chairman of Islami Bank after the resignation of chairman Zobaidur Rahman and managing director Omar Faruk Khan.
A board meeting which was scheduled that day was postponed due to protests, later rescheduled for 2:30pm on Monday. The new chairman was expected to attend but did not appear at the headquarters amid demonstrations.
On Bangladesh Bank’s advice, Islami Bank authorities decided to hold the board meeting virtually, with Khurshid presiding.
By early afternoon, the area in Motijheel remained tense. Police vans and water cannons were stationed near the bank, while small groups of forum members continued their sit‑in. Protesters announced they would remain until 4pm.
