President Sahabuddin Calls for National Unity to Build Democratic Bangladesh Following July Uprising
President Mohammed Shahabuddin has called for national unity to build a democratic, accountable, and equitable Bangladesh, honoring the vision of those who sacrificed their lives during the July mass uprising. In a message issued on the occasion of "July Martyrs Day," the President urged citizens to set aside political and ideological differences to establish a nation free from discrimination and injustice.
The President paid tribute to the students and young people who lost their lives or sustained life-altering injuries during the 2024 uprising, expressing deep sympathy for their families and acknowledging the ongoing struggles of those living with disabilities. He underscored that the movement represented a decisive eruption of public anger against decades of systemic corruption, disenfranchisement, enforced disappearances, and authoritarian rule.
Reflecting on the timeline of the protests, the President highlighted the pivotal moment on July 16, when the death of Abu Sayed in Rangpur ignited the fervor of students and citizens nationwide. He noted that the transition from student-led campus demonstrations to a mass uprising was fueled by the subsequent arrests and repression of activists, eventually uniting all sectors of society in a shared struggle for democratic restoration.
President Shahabuddin emphasized that the victory of the July uprising belongs to the collective aspirations and bravery of the people rather than any single individual or political entity. He affirmed that the event serves as a stark reminder that the ultimate source of state power rests with the public, and that ensuring justice, fundamental rights, and dignity remains the primary mandate of the government.
The President reiterated the current administration's commitment to the families of the fallen, the rehabilitation of the injured, and the pursuit of justice through the legal system. He encouraged both affluent members of society and humanitarian organizations to support the government’s efforts in honoring the legacy of the martyrs and rebuilding the nation’s foundations based on the principles of equity and freedom from corruption.