On the morning of July Uprising Day, Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation in a heartfelt video message, commemorating the anniversary of the 2024 mass movement that toppled the long-standing authoritarian regime of Sheikh Hasina. “The sacrifices of the martyrs of July will not be in vain. Their dreams will shape the foundation of a new Bangladesh,” Yunus declared.
August 5 marks one year since the fall of Hasina’s 15-year rule. The ousted Prime Minister fled to India amidst a massive popular uprising led by students and citizens demanding an end to authoritarianism and systemic corruption. This day is now nationally observed as “July Uprising Day.”
The Chief Advisor’s message was broadcast nationwide through public gatherings organized by district administrations. The day’s central event is scheduled for 5 PM at Manik Mia Avenue, where Yunus is set to publicly read the July Declaration in the presence of political leaders, wounded resistance fighters, and families of the fallen.
The day-long celebration also features cultural performances to honor the spirit of the uprising.
Excerpts from the Chief Advisor’s Address:
“Assalamu Alaikum,
Today, the entire nation remembers a day that left a deep imprint on our history—August 5, a day of renewed commitment, a day of people’s awakening, and a rebirth of our country from the clutches of fascism.”
He honored the memory of the freedom fighters of 1971, whose struggle laid the groundwork for an independent Bangladesh. “Yet,” he said, “even half a century after liberation, our people remained deprived of justice and democracy.”
Reflecting on the uprising of July 2024, he described it as an explosion of 16 years of frustration, especially among the youth. Graduates with excellent academic records were forced to beg for jobs from ruling party cronies. Government recruitment was mired in corruption, nepotism, and favoritism. Those who refused to pay bribes or align with local mafias remained jobless.
A discriminatory quota system became a tool for exploitation. Despite years of protests, the fascist regime remained unmoved. An elite class emerged, benefiting financially from supporting authoritarian rule—pervading the government, education, law enforcement, media, and even the judiciary.
The country’s economy collapsed under rampant corruption. Armed ruling-party goons attacked protestors during demonstrations. Those who spoke for justice were arrested, disappeared, or silenced. Over the years, millions of political activists were detained or imprisoned without cause.
“In July 2024, youth, students, and citizens united in one voice: fascism must fall. The regime responded with bullets, blackouts, and brutality,” he said. Security forces stormed neighborhoods, detained students, and denied the wounded access to medical care. Hospitals were instructed not to admit the injured.
“Many lost their eyesight or became permanently disabled due to lack of treatment,” Yunus lamented.
Support for Martyrs and Injured Fighters:
Yunus paid tribute to the fallen, expressing deep gratitude on behalf of the nation. “The nation is forever indebted to you,” he said.
Since December, the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs has overseen support for families of martyrs and injured fighters. So far:
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775 out of 836 martyr families have received Tk 98.4 crore in savings certificates and monthly allowances.
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Remaining families are being processed for benefits.
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13,800 injured fighters received Tk 153.04 crore in three categories of financial assistance.
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78 severely wounded fighters have been sent abroad for treatment in Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, and Russia, with treatment costs totaling Tk 97.5 crore.
In addition, all injured fighters are now entitled to free, priority medical care at public hospitals, medical colleges, and designated specialized institutions nationwide.
A Pledge for the Future:
“We remember the past not just to mourn, but to make a pledge,” said Yunus. “We will never bow to oppression. We will build a state that is accountable, compassionate, democratic, and free from discrimination—a state that works for the welfare of all.”
He concluded by reaffirming that the sacrifices of July’s martyrs would fuel the journey ahead. “Their dreams will shape tomorrow’s Bangladesh.”
“May the Almighty guide us on this path,” he ended, “Allah Hafez.”
