Seize moment to rebuild democracy Khaleda
Staff Reporter :
BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia on Tuesday called for seizing the present moment to institutionalise democracy anew and strengthen national unity. Addressing a discussion marking the first anniversary of the July-August mass uprising, she emphasised the importance of preserving the spirit of sacrifice and building a democratic future rooted in public welfare and unity.
“We must act swiftly to take advantage of this opportunity to establish a new democratic system while upholding our national cohesion,” Khaleda Zia said in a virtual address from Dhaka. The discussion, titled ‘Mass Uprising 2024: National Unity and Democratic Journey’, was held at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Conference Centre and marked the start of the BNP’s 36-day commemoration programme.
Reflecting on the events of 2024 and earlier democratic movements, the BNP chief underscored the need to safeguard Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty, public safety, and employment opportunities. “We must ensure that the tears and sacrifices of the people were not in vain,” she added.
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has called on political stakeholders to reflect on whether a proportional representation system suits Bangladesh’s unique geographic and political landscape.
“Various political parties have put forward constructive ideas as part of the ongoing reform discussions under the interim government. While all proposals are intended to serve the public interest, each must be assessed within the context of Bangladesh,” he said during a virtual address at a BNP-organised discussion marking the first anniversary of the July-August mass uprising.
He pointed out that some parties are promoting the idea of proportional representation – a model adopted by several countries – and encouraged all relevant quarters to carefully consider its feasibility in light of Bangladesh’s current realities and geopolitical context.
Tarique Rahman, speaking virtually from the United Kingdom, formally launched the commemorative initiative, ‘July-August Uprising: Mourning and Victory Observance’. “This programme has been initiated to honour the anniversary of the uprising. I hope it achieves complete success,” he said.
The event began at 3:10 pm with a recitation from the Holy Quran and a prayer (munajat) for those who lost their lives during the uprising and in previous pro-democracy struggles. Attendees stood for a minute’s silence in memory of the martyrs before the national anthem was played.
A documentary titled ‘National Unity and Democratic Journey’ was screened, recounting the movement’s milestones and the sacrifices made. A particularly emotional segment featured families of individuals who were killed, injured, or went missing during past political movements, including last year’s uprising. Tarique Rahman was seen visibly moved by their testimonies.
Speakers included the relatives of several victims, such as Ramjan Ali, elder brother of Abu Sayeed; Mostafizur Rahman, father of Mir Mahfuzur Rahman Mugdho; Safiul Alam, father of Wasim Akram; Mohiuddin, father of Yamin; Fatima Tuz Zohr, mother of Abdullah bin Zahid; Saima Islam Farin, sister of Farhan Fiaz; and Kazi Lulfa, mother of Kazi Fahim.
Others who spoke included Tahsina Rushdir Luna, wife of missing BNP leader M Ilias Ali; Sanjida Islam Tuli, coordinator of Mayer Daak, a platform for families of enforced disappearance victims; Anisur Rahman Talukdar, an enforced disappearance survivor; and Adiba Islam Hridi, daughter of Chhatra Dal leader Parvez Hossain.
Family members of other victims of political violence, including Moniruzzaman Hira (brother of crossfire victim Nuruzzaman Jony), and the fathers of Biswajit Das and Abrar Fahad-both killed in separate incidents involving ruling party affiliates-also addressed the gathering. Redwad Hossain Riyad and Navil, who were injured during the 2024 uprising, shared their experiences of police brutality.
BNP leaders said the event aimed to honour those who made sacrifices in the struggle for democracy and to renew the party’s commitment to a pluralistic, just political future. Khaleda Zia addressed the event as the chief guest, while BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir spoke as special guest. The session was chaired by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, and leaders from several democratic parties also spoke.
A significant number of victims’ families and individuals affected by political repression over the years, particularly during the 2024 uprising, were in attendance.
The discussion marked the beginning of a series of commemorative events scheduled from 1 July to 6 August. Previously announced on 26 June, the BNP’s programme includes discussion meetings, rallies, silent marches, blood donation drives, seminars, street theatre, graffiti art campaigns, football matches, children’s events, and awareness initiatives on dengue and Covid-19. The observance coincides with the first anniversary of the mass movement that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year rule on 5 August 2024.