What’s in draft of July Proclamation entails
NN Online:
The much-discussed July Proclamation is set to be implemented from August 5, as confirmed by its draft.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus held a meeting with political parties on Thursday to finalise the content and provide the announcement date of the proclamation.
The draft of the July Proclamation references the ongoing struggle for independence, noting the 1947 liberation from British colonial rule through the Pakistan movement, as well as the 1971 Liberation War that resulted in Bangladesh’s independence.
It discusses how student and public protests evolved into a popular uprising, forcing Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee to India.
The draft declares:
- The draft outlines the establishment of an interim government under Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus to ensure the security, stability, and integrity of the state, alongside reforms aimed at promoting good governance and ensuring fair elections.
- A call for the dissolution of the parliament formed through “farcical elections.”
- The intention to amend or abolish the 1972 Constitution, viewed as supporting fascism and autocracy.
- A commitment to bringing justice for crimes committed by the fascist Awami League government during the July Popular Uprising, including genocide, crimes against humanity, and looting of state property.
- The draft emphasises the need for a new republic that will eradicate oppression, exploitation, and discrimination, while addressing the aspirations of Bangladesh’s youth.
The proclamation also states that it will be granted appropriate state and constitutional recognition.
On December 31, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the National Citizens’ Committee attempted to announce the proclamation at the Central Shaheed Minar, which sparked political debate.
The interim government clarified that it was not initially involved but later confirmed its role in working with national consensus to finalise the proclamation. Following this, a “March for Unity” programme was announced, with a deadline set for Wednesday for the proclamation’s formal release.
On Thursday, a meeting took place under the leadership of the chief adviser to finalise the July Proclamation.