Recommended Assistant Teachers Refuse to Budge; Defy Minister's Call to Return Home

Despite a direct call from the State Minister for Primary and Mass Education, Bobby Hajjaj, recommended primary assistant teachers have continued their protest at the capital's Shahbagh. The protesters, who are demanding immediate appointment letters, remained stationed at the busy intersection well past 4:00 PM today, Sunday (April 26).

The demonstrators stated that they are unwilling to accept mere verbal assurances and will continue their movement until their demands are met. The intersection echoed with slogans as the protesters made it clear that they would not leave the streets without a concrete timeline for their appointments.

Earlier in the day, a seven-member delegation representing the recommended teachers met with State Minister Bobby Hajjaj at the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education. During the meeting, the representatives highlighted the urgency of completing the recruitment process and briefed the Minister on the hardships faced by the candidates due to the delay.

In response, State Minister Bobby Hajjaj assured the delegation that the recruitment process is proceeding at a normal pace in accordance with established rules and regulations. He emphasized that every step of the process must be properly completed before the final appointments are made.

The State Minister urged the protesters to demonstrate patience and maintain trust in the government’s recruitment process. He called upon them to withdraw the movement and return to their respective homes to avoid causing further public suffering.

"The government is giving the highest priority to recruiting skilled and qualified teachers to ensure quality primary education," the Minister remarked, adding that all necessary activities are moving forward as planned.

Despite the Minister's appeal, the protesters expressed deep skepticism. Following the meeting, the delegation returned to Shahbagh and informed their fellow candidates of the discussion. The general consensus among the group was to stay put, as they felt previous assurances had not yielded results. The ongoing standoff at Shahbagh has caused significant traffic congestion in the surrounding areas, including Science Lab, Katabon, and Matsya Bhaban.