Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmad Bir Bikram has declared that supporting the families of July Mass Uprising martyrs and rehabilitating the injured is the government’s most sacred responsibility.
Speaking as the chief guest at a reception marking 'July Mass Uprising Day 2026' at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre, he paid tribute to the thousands who sacrificed their lives in 2024 including Abu Sayeed and Mugdha to end autocratic rule.
"The July Mass Uprising marks the victory of freedom-loving students and citizens" he said. Assuring the July fighters and victims' families of full state support, he added "You will certainly receive the honour you deserve. We will dedicate everything within our means for your welfare."
The Acting President urged citizens to hold the government accountable, promising to correct any mistakes. He sharply criticized the former Awami League regime for its lack of remorse over past atrocities with killings and enforced disappearances. Responding to rumors of the Awami League's return, the 82-year-old Liberation War veteran warned "We are waiting. Inshallah, we will meet on the streets to defend our democracy."
Calling the uprising a historic opportunity to rebuild a discrimination-free and justice-based Bangladesh, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad stressed the need for absolute national unity. "Differences of opinion will remain, but on issues of national interest and sovereignty, we must demonstrate unity and wisdom" he urged.
The event, chaired by Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan, featured the presentation of crests to martyrs' families. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, State Minister Ishraq Hossain and representatives from Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizens Committee were also in attendance.
