Acting president calls for unity on national interest, democratic values

Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram today (5 August) said differences of opinion are a natural feature of democracy, but there should be no division when it comes to national interest, democratic values and the country's independence and sovereignty.

He made the remarks while addressing a reception and discussion for the families of those killed and the July fighters at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Dhaka as the chief guest.

Urging the nation to seize what he described as a historic opportunity, the acting president said, "We must build a democratic, just and corruption-free Bangladesh where every citizen enjoys equal rights and dignity." 

Describing the July mass uprising as a historic opportunity for state rebuilding, he said the nation must remain vigilant so that "no division, hatred or narrow interests" can hinder national progress.

Drawing a historical link between the 1971 Liberation War and the July mass uprising, Hafiz Uddin said the Liberation War was a struggle to establish democracy, while the July Uprising was a movement to restore democracy. 

"Election is an inseparable part of democracy. As long as democracy exists, people will enjoy freedom of expression and the country's independence and sovereignty will remain intact," he said.

The acting president said ensuring the welfare of the families of those killed in the July Uprising and providing treatment and rehabilitation for the injured was among the government's "most important and sacred responsibilities."

"The government's foremost duty is to take care of the families of those who sacrificed their lives in July. It is also our sacred responsibility to restore the health of those who lost their eyesight or limbs," he said.

Referring to the July Mass Uprising Day, Hafiz Uddin described it as "an unforgettable day written in golden letters in the nation's history" and said it marked the victory of freedom-seeking students and people in the struggle for democracy, justice and human dignity.

He said the mass uprising of 2024 brought an end to what he termed a long-standing authoritarian and fascist rule, opening the way for a new beginning.

The acting president paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the uprising, including Abu Sayeed, Mugdha, Wasim, Yamin, Farhan, Nafiz, Sajal, Rabbi, Meraj, Elem, Taim, Naima, child Riya Gop, Ahad and others, praying for the eternal peace of their souls and saying their sacrifices would continue to inspire the nation.

Recalling an emotional moment from the event, he said he was deeply moved to see a mother attending the programme with her son who had lost his eyesight during the movement.

"This young man lost his eyes in the struggle to restore democracy and establish the rule of law. If such people have to go from one minister's door to another even for their basic rights, it will be a matter of national shame," he said.

Addressing the July fighters, he assured them that they would receive the respect they deserve.

"Do not lose heart. You will receive the honour you deserve from this government. We will do everything within our capacity for your welfare," he said.

Seeking cooperation from citizens, Hafiz Uddin said the people should correct the government whenever it makes mistakes.

Referring to the past rule of the Awami League, he said, "We will never become the Awami League, nor do we want to. They have shown no remorse despite allegations of injustice, killings, enforced disappearances, money laundering, torture and the so-called 'Aynaghar'."

He also criticised remarks by what he called a "fugitive fascist" about returning to the country in December, saying, "We are waiting. Come back to the country, and we will meet on the streets, Inshallah."

Sharing his personal experience, Hafiz Uddin said he had fought in the Liberation War at the age of 27 and, now at 82, remained committed to working for good governance and lasting democracy in Bangladesh. 

"There are many nations in the world, but very few citizens who can stand before raised guns with both hands up like Abu Sayeed. We are that nation, and we are proud of them," he said.

Reiterating his call for national unity, the acting president urged all to uphold the spirit of the July mass uprising and move forward with unity, patriotism, honesty and mutual respect.

"Let us transform this new possibility, earned through the blood of the martyrs, into a firm commitment to building a discrimination-free, democratic, just, humane and prosperous Bangladesh," he said.

He concluded his speech by calling upon every citizen to remain vigilant in safeguarding Bangladesh's dignity.

Earlier, the acting president presented honorary crests to representatives of the families of those killed in the July Uprising and the July fighters.

The programme, chaired by Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan, was attended by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraq Hossain as special guests.

Representatives of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizens' Committee were also present.

Liberation War Affairs Secretary Md Ashraful Islam delivered the welcome address, while representatives of the martyrs' families and the July fighters shared their expectations and commitments.

The programme began at noon with the national anthem, recitations from holy scriptures, a one-minute silence in memory of the July martyrs and the screening of a documentary on the July Mass Uprising.