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Nazrul Islam Khan, a member of the BNP’s Standing Committee, stated that the July Uprising was the result of 16 years of relentless efforts. He emphasized that although victories have been achieved through repeated struggles, these triumphs have often been snatched away. He urged that the brave fighters of the 2024 mass uprising must be embraced, as they have sacrificed their lives and blood to realize the nation’s long-standing aspirations. Khan warned that if the nation fails to protect itself from corruption and misconduct, all achievements will be in vain. He stressed the necessity of anti-fascist unity to uphold the spirit of the July Uprising.
Khan made these remarks on Saturday (August 2) during a shadow parliament session organized by Debate for Democracy at FDC, focusing on anti-fascist unity and the spirit of July. The session was chaired by Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy.
Khan further noted that despite differences among parties like BNP, Jamaat, and NCP, none of them are anti-democratic. He expressed confidence that there are no obstacles to holding elections, as public aspirations and preparations align in favor of it. He advocated for a swift election, stating that if elected, the BNP would form a national or consensus government with all parties involved in the anti-autocratic and anti-fascist struggles. He also cautioned that the fallen Awami League is still conspiring to destabilize the country, urging everyone to remain united and vigilant.
In his speech, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron described the July Uprising as a landmark event after the Liberation War, with its martyrs earning the title of national heroes. He highlighted the unprecedented participation of students, workers, rickshaw pullers, and people from all walks of life, led by the youth. Kiron emphasized that the uprising united people beyond religion, caste, and politics to fight fascism. He stressed the need to build a prosperous Bangladesh based on merit and integrity, standing firm against inequality, injustice, and corruption to prevent the rise of fascism in the future. He warned that without anti-fascist unity, the spirit of the July Uprising could be lost.
Kiron also raised concerns about public doubts regarding delays in holding national elections. He noted that people expect the implementation of the London Declaration on national elections following the meeting between Dr. Yunus and Tarique Rahman. He warned that delays in elections could allow fascist forces to regroup, leading to increased unrest, such as extortion, mob violence, attacks on shrines, bans on Lalon music, and questions about the national anthem. This could disrupt the rule of law and create fear among the people. He urged all political parties to make concessions and pave the way for a swift national election.
In the shadow parliament session titled “Anti-Fascist Unity Can Uphold the Spirit of July,” organized by Debate for Democracy, the debaters from Eden Mohila College defeated the team from Tejgaon College. The judges included Professor Abu Muhammad Rais, Dr. AKM Mazharul Islam, and journalists Md. Lutfar Rahman, Maidur Rahman Rubel, and Zakir Hossain Liton. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participating teams.
