BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has said the nation is going to celebrate its Victory Day after last year's July mass uprising in a uniquely joyous atmosphere, as people experienced victory "with full hearts in a free and independent environment".
He said that although a year has passed since the 2024 uprising, political debates surrounding the upcoming elections have led to visible divisions in the society.
"Taking advantage of these divisions, undemocratic and fascist forces are trying to reemerge," he told BSS in an interview marking the great Victory Day.
Following the announcement of the national election schedule, Salahuddin Ahmed said a recent incident involving an attack on Sharif Osman Hadi has created a painful and tense atmosphere across the country.
Voicing his concern, he said the fallen fascist forces and their allies continue efforts to obstruct the country's democratic transition.
Salahuddin said unity among Bangladesh's pro-democratic forces and all anti-fascist political parties is now crucial to firmly establish national sovereignty and democracy.
He said only through such unity would be possible to prevent renewed attempts by terrorist, anti-democratic and fascist forces to regain influence.
The BNP leader said the blood of the martyrs of the 2024 mass uprising now represents the people's aspiration for emancipation.
According to Salahuddin Ahmed, the people of Bangladesh want to establish democracy, end discriminatory social systems, secure democratic and constitutional rights, and restore human rights.
He added that the mass uprising stands as the ultimate expression of the collective will of the nation.
The BNP leader said the immediate priority is to transform anti-fascist national unity into a strong national force while advancing preparations for the days ahead.
He said following this process, a strong democratic state can be built through the upcoming national elections.
Salahuddin said this objective reflects the true spirit of victory, the nation's expectations and the aspirations embodied in the blood of the martyrs.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
