In the capital, Shujon or Shushashoner Janney Nagarik held the programme at Manik Mia Avenue in front of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. People from all walks of life, civil society members and noted personalities joined the human chain.

They called for resolving the current political impasse, making the Election Commission independent, ensuring democracy within the political parties, making the registration of political parties mandatory, and providing detailed information about candidates in the elections.

Welcoming the dialogue on reforms, Shujan President Prof Muzaffer Ahmad stressed the need for fundamental reforms.

The demand for reforms is now the demand of people, he said, adding that honest and dedicated persons should be elected to strengthen democracy in the country.

He also underscored the need for holding election in time.

Former chief election commissioner Justice Abdur Rouf, former adviser to the caretaker government ASM Shahjahan, woman leader Dr Hamida Hossain, Shujon Secretary Dr Badiul Alam Mojumdar, Dr Zafarullah Chowdhury of Gonoshasthya Kendra, columnist and researcher Syed Abul Moksud and Khushi Kabir of Nijera Kari took part in the programme.

Leaders of different socio-political and cultural organisations also joined the human chain to express solidarity with the demands.