BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia has called for the speedy trial of those responsible for the killings during the July Movement and demanded state recognition for the martyrs. She also emphasized the need to ensure dignified rehabilitation and a secure future for the families of the victims.
In a video message delivered at a program titled “Mass Uprising 2024, National Unity and Democratic Movement,” held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center on Tuesday (July 1), Khaleda Zia addressed the families of the martyrs on the occasion of the first anniversary of the July Uprising.
“For 16 long years, the Awami League regime attempted to impose a one-party rule by destroying democracy through arrests, killings, disappearances, and repression. Fascism has been defeated by the uprising of students and the people,” said the BNP chief.
Paying tribute to the martyrs and expressing sympathy for the injured, Khaleda Zia said, “The nation will remember their sacrifice forever.”
She further urged the preparation of a comprehensive list of victims of disappearances, murders, and extrajudicial killings under the Awami League government. Stressing the importance of this moment, she said, “We must institutionalize the new democratic system that is emerging. Employment must be created, public safety ensured, and the sovereignty of Bangladesh protected at all costs.”
Highlighting the need for unity, she concluded, “We must make sure that the blood of our heroes and the tears of their mothers do not go in vain.”
The program was organized by the BNP and inaugurated by its acting chairman, Tarique Rahman. Family members of martyrs and victims—including those of Shaheed Abu Sayeed, Shaheed Mir Mughd, Shaheed Wasim, and Biswajit—were present at the event.
