Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmad on Wednesday urged all to remain united to realise the aspirations of the July mass uprising, saying the people of Bangladesh would not allow the return of “fascist politics”.
He made the remarks at a reception and discussion organised for the families of July martyrs and July fighters at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Dhaka, marking the second anniversary of the July mass uprising.
“The Bangladesh achieved through the blood of martyrs must be rebuilt as a new country free from discrimination and rooted in democracy,” Hafiz Uddin said.
Criticising the Awami League government that was ousted during the July uprising, he said, “We cannot become the Awami League, nor do we want to. Look at them, they have no remorse.”
Referring to reports that Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina would return to Bangladesh in December, he said, “They say they will come in December. We are waiting. Come to the country. Inshallah, we will meet on the streets.”
He alleged that the previous government had been involved in “injustice, enforced disappearances, killings, torture, money laundering and the Aynaghar (secret detention facilities)”, saying those responsible had shown no remorse.
The acting president said ensuring the welfare of the families of those killed during the July uprising and providing treatment and rehabilitation for the injured were among the government’s top priorities.
“The government’s most important responsibility is to look after the families of those who sacrificed their lives in July. It is our sacred duty to restore the health of those who were injured, lost their eyesight or lost their limbs,” he said.
He added that the government would provide maximum support within its capacity despite the country’s limited resources.
On democracy and elections, Hafiz Uddin said both the 1971 Liberation War and the July uprising were struggles to establish democracy.
“Elections are an essential part of democracy. As long as democracy exists in the country and people have the freedom to express their views, our independence and sovereignty will remain protected,” he said.
Hafiz unhappy over documentary controversy
The programme, organised by the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, also saw controversy over a documentary screened on the July uprising.
Several NCP leaders left the event alleging that the documentary failed to properly portray the history of the movement, including the role of July martyr Abu Sayeed.
Expressing his disappointment over the incident, Hafiz Uddin said mistakes could happen but the disruption at a national event in the presence of foreign guests was unfortunate.
“There were some mistakes in the documentary. I did not see Abu Sayeed’s image in it. Mistakes can happen, but what happened even after the concerned minister apologised was undesirable,” he said.
He said the walkout was not appropriate and that the incident prevented the country from displaying national unity.
“Foreign guests left the programme. This did not look good. We failed to show national unity,” he said.
The acting president urged people to raise objections through proper channels instead of creating disorder.
“If there are mistakes, point them out and we will correct them. But creating chaos will not bring any solution,” he said.
Reiterating his stance, Hafiz Uddin said, “This government is elected by the people. This government cannot become the Awami League and does not want to become the Awami League.”
He said the government would ensure due honour for July fighters, preserve the dignity of martyrs and provide proper treatment for those injured during the uprising.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed was also present at the event.
