Govt to convert Ganabhaban into July Uprising Memorial Museum

The interim government has decided to convert Ganabhaban, the official residence of the ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, into a museum to commemorate the student-led mass uprising that led to the downfall of Hasina's Awami League government on 5 August.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the Advisory Council held at the Chief Adviser's Office with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus in the chair today (5 September).

At a press conference following the meeting at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital this evening, Adviser for Youth and Sports and Labor Affairs Asif Mahmud said, "An important decision was made today. Our Ganabhaban was never truly a 'Ganabhaban' – a people's house. Since it was claimed by students and the public during the uprising, it will now be opened to the public."

"It will be converted into the 'July Uprising Memorial Museum', preserving the memory of the uprising, honouring the martyrs, and documenting the injustices of the previous fascist regime. Work on this will begin soon," he said.

He also noted, "Ganabhaban will be maintained in the same condition as it was when claimed by the people. We will only be establishing the museum inside."

Asif Mahmud said the government will examine examples from other countries to guide the construction of the memorial museum and ensure it remains open to the public.

He also announced that the advisory council approved a proposal to congratulate all the Bangladesh national cricket team players, the coach, the officers, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on their 2-0 win over Pakistan at Rawalpindi.

"Many have lost their lives during the July uprising, and their names are being compiled. The chief adviser and other members of the advisory council will meet with the families of the martyrs soon. A decision has been made to hold a conference with the martyrs' families," Asif said.

Asif also mentioned, "We are observing tension among workers recently. Discussions with all relevant stakeholders have been conducted, and this issue was also addressed in today's cabinet meeting."

"Another decision has been taken to establish a review committee under the Ministry of Labour to address any issues faced by workers. The committee will be announced shortly. Workers can present their concerns to this review committee, which will work with the relevant ministry or department to resolve issues promptly," he said.

The adviser also said that the floodwaters are beginning to recede. Relief efforts are underway from various sources, including the government. Additionally, the rehabilitation process has commenced.

Rehabilitation programmes are being carried out in collaboration with several NGOs. Arrangements will soon be made to assist those whose homes have been damaged, Asif Mahmud added.