Failure to build discrimination-free society after independence led to July Uprising: Adviser Rizwana
She said the need for a mass uprising even 54 years after independence shows that the dreams and expectations of 1971 were not fulfilled by the state.
Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today (16 December) said that many years after independence it has become clear that Bangladesh failed to achieve its goals of a democratic, exploitation-free and discrimination-free society, which is why the July uprising took place.
Speaking after paying tribute at the National Memorial on Victory Day this morning, she said that after independence the nation expected a democratic social system free from exploitation and discrimination.
The failure to achieve those expectations led to the uprising and brought the country to a critical turning point, the adviser added.
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Rizwana, who has recently been given responsibility for the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said the country is now leaving behind one system of governance and beginning a fresh journey towards democracy.
An election is scheduled for February, she said, expressing hope that it would mark a strong democratic beginning.
She said during the national election, there will not only be an election but also a referendum, allowing people to express their opinions on major reform issues.
She said the need for a mass uprising even 54 years after independence shows that the dreams and expectations of 1971 were not fulfilled by the state.
Rizwana hoped that the election will lay a foundation that strengthens democracy, ensures government accountability, and advances the goal of a discrimination-free and exploitation-free society.
Commenting on political violence, she said attempts to eliminate opponents through attacks instead of debate are cowardly and highly condemnable, and have no place in the new Bangladesh.
She added that usual security preparations are in place, but recent attacks require additional measures as opponents are becoming more organised and carrying out attacks from behind.
She again said the interim government should not be judged by conventional measures of success or failure, as it began work in a collapsed state, adding that the government would be successful only if it can ensure a fair election, justice and reforms.
The government is committed to ensuring a peaceful, fair and spontaneous election, she said.
However, she noted that recent attacks by opponents have become more intense and violent, creating a tense and conflict-prone environment, which requires additional security measures and careful preparation.
