Bangladesh Observes July Mass Uprising Day Today

Bangladesh is observing July Mass Uprising Day today, marking the second anniversary of the student-led mass uprising that led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government on August 5, 2024.

The government, political parties and socio-cultural organisations have arranged nationwide programmes, including wreath-laying ceremonies, rallies, discussions and cultural events, to honour those who lost their lives and participated in the movement.

Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmed and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued separate messages marking the occasion.

In his message, the Acting President called for building a democratic, accountable, discrimination-free and justice-based Bangladesh in line with the aspirations of those who sacrificed during the July Mass Uprising.

He urged the nation to remain united in establishing a humane and prosperous country inspired by the spirit of the movement and paid tribute to those who were killed and injured during the protests.

The Acting President described the uprising as the result of years of public frustration over repression, corruption and governance failures, saying the movement reaffirmed that the people are the ultimate source of state power.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman described August 5 as a day of victory, freedom and the restoration of democratic rights, saying the mass uprising ended more than a decade of authoritarian rule.

He said people from all walks of life—including students, workers, farmers, professionals, journalists and cultural activists—joined the movement, making it a nationwide struggle for democracy and political rights.

The prime minister also paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the movement and reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting democratic values and fulfilling the aspirations of the people.