PM Tareq Rahman meets July uprising figurehead Md Nasir Khan at Secretariat
Prime Minister Tareque Rahman met with Mohammad Nasir Khan, a prominent face of the July mass uprising, at the Secretariat on Monday to discuss his role in the movement and his vision for the nation’s future. The meeting was arranged by the Prime Minister's research officer, Abdus Sattar Patwary, following media coverage of Nasir Khan’s pivotal contribution to the protests.
The meeting, which lasted approximately 10 minutes, began with the Prime Minister acknowledging the iconic imagery of the protests. During the discussion, Rahman inquired about the improvised metal shield Nasir had famously wielded while facing police fire at Karwan Bazar on August 4, 2024—a moment that became a defining symbol of the movement. Nasir, a sanitary worker by trade, noted that he had left the makeshift weapon behind once the protests concluded.
Beyond the exchanges about the heat of the uprising, the Prime Minister questioned Nasir on whether he had registered as a "July fighter" or sought formal recognition. Nasir stated that he had not sought any such status, explaining that his participation was driven by conviction rather than a desire for personal credit.
When asked about his expectations for the new government, Nasir emphasized a desire for a nation defined by freedom of speech, protected fundamental rights, and the ability to hold authority accountable. He expressed confidence in the interim administration’s progress, telling the Prime Minister that while significant changes have already been made, systemic transformation requires patience and collective effort.
Prime Minister Rahman underscored the necessity of youth participation in the national rebuilding process, calling for unity to achieve a country free from corruption and extortion. He urged the younger generation to remain engaged in the ongoing effort to construct a reformed state. The meeting concluded with the Prime Minister seeking well-wishes for the government's success, while Nasir offered prayers for the nation's progress and the administration's ability to fulfill the aspirations of the people.
